House in Fonte das Perdizes: A Modern Masterpiece in Alentejo's Landscape

The Fonte das Perdizes House is a striking example of contemporary architecture that harmonizes with Alentejo’s rugged natural landscape. Designed by Gonçalo Bonniz, the house incorporates minimalist lines, sustainable materials, and earthy tones to create a timeless connection with the surrounding terrain.

Integrating Nature in Modern House Design

Sustainable architectural design was a guiding principle, with preserved holm-oak trees shaping the structure’s layout. The placement of the house was carefully selected to maximize views of Alentejo's landscape while protecting natural elements.

Key Features:

1. Three-Wing Structure: The house features a unique 45-degree wing design that stretches east to west, creating a harmonious blend with the landscape.
2. North-South Separation: A 47-meter blind concrete wall, 3.5 meters high, divides the house, offering privacy and thermal protection.

Use of Natural Materials

The material selection focused on natural colors that enhance the home’s integration with Alentejo's landscape. The color palette was inspired by local multicolored slate stones, featuring grey and brown hues that blend with the earth.

• Concrete: Dark grey, exposed concrete forms the primary structure, offering durability and aesthetic cohesion.
• Pinewood: Treated brown pinewood complements the concrete, adding warmth to both exterior and interior spaces.

Panoramah!® Minimalist Windows

The minimalist windows by panoramah!®, such as the ah!38 series, enhance the house’s modern aesthetic. The large windows maximize natural light and panoramic views, integrating the interior with Alentejo’s rugged scenery.

Interior Layout and Design

The house’s interior design reflects the minimalist aesthetic seen outside. The consistent use of materials in both the interior and exterior spaces reinforces the seamless architectural language.

Key Areas:

• Social Area: This 170 m² space features a 35-meter-wide window protected by a 5-meter concrete overhang, shielding the home from Alentejo’s intense summer heat.
• Kitchen as a Central Hub: Located in the middle wing, the kitchen connects the dining and living areas, opening onto a spacious terrace for outdoor living.
• Private Wings: The east and west wings house the bedrooms, accessible via corridors illuminated by large entrance doors.

Sustainable Design and Thermal Comfort

The house’s design provides natural shading and temperature control. A cantilevered overhang shades the interiors from the sun, enhancing thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption. The minimalist use of high-quality materials and sustainable architecture principles aligns with the region’s climate needs.

The Fonte das Perdizes House by gonçalo bonniz arquitectos embodies a modern, minimalist approach to architectural design, creating a seamless fusion with Alentejo’s landscape. This modern house is an outstanding example of sustainable and integrated architecture, reflecting a deep respect for natural surroundings while offering contemporary comfort and style.

Photographs are work of goncalobonniz arquitectos