House for Two DJs by Atelier Matteo Arnone

House for Two DJs, designed by Atelier Matteo Arnone, transforms the historic Quinta do Álamo in Alenquer, Portugal, into a contemporary residence that blends rural heritage with modern creative living. Surrounded by vineyards and shaped from the ruins of an old winery, the project reinterprets winemaking tradition through minimalist geometry, refined materials, and an intimate connection with the landscape.

The architecture is anchored in the renovation of the existing stone structure, once used for storing wine barrels. Rather than erasing the past, the project elevates it, preserving the spatial memory while introducing a new symmetry that organizes daily life. A perfectly balanced floor plan defines the ground level: a living room and open kitchen on one side, and a quiet bedroom on the other. Both spaces open onto semi-circular patios, which soften the building’s form and create a fluid transition between inside and outside. These curved courtyards dissolve sharp corners, channel natural light, and shape outdoor rooms that feel private yet open to the surrounding landscape.

A third patio, positioned between the two main ground-floor spaces, introduces a more introspective moment within the home. This light-filled void extends vertically, illuminating the upper level where two fully equipped recording studios are located. The spatial overlap between living and working areas is subtle and natural, creating a home that supports both creative production and peaceful retreat.

Thick perimeter walls play a crucial architectural role. Beyond structural stability, they integrate key functions such as built-in storage, staircases, and furniture. This allows the interior to remain visually calm and orderly, enhancing the minimalist expression of concrete, wood, and natural textures. The material palette echoes the agricultural heritage of the site while ensuring a contemporary, timeless atmosphere.

The House for Two DJs ultimately stands as a dialogue between memory and modernity: a rural winery reborn as a refined residence for creative artists. Its balanced geometry, sculpted patios, and thoughtful integration of historic elements create a home that is both rooted in tradition and aligned with a new rhythm of life.

All photographs are works of Federico Cairoli