House in Itu by Lucio Fleury Arquitetura: A Modern Italian-Brazilian Residential Design

Nestled in the serene landscape of Itu, Brazil, the House in Itu by Lucio Fleury Arquitetura is a striking example of contemporary residential architecture that harmoniously blends Italian village charm with Brazilian vernacular elements. Completed in 2023 and covering a generous 520 m², this project showcases a thoughtful integration of landscape, volumetry, and outdoor living spaces, designed to respond perfectly to the clients’ unique lifestyle and the region’s climate.

Site and Design Challenges

The plot posed distinct challenges due to its 37-meter frontage, tapering along a 117-meter depth, combined with stringent condominium setback regulations. From the outset, the clients envisioned a residence reminiscent of an “Italo-country village,” prompting a design that balanced formal elegance with a warm, rural sensibility.

At the entrance, two articulated volumes define a welcoming plaza, completely free of walls or railings. A three-meter cantilevered marquee marks the port cochère, establishing a grand and functional arrival sequence for residents and guests.

Strategic Use of the Land’s Slope

The clients’ directive to take advantage of the land’s natural slope shaped the house’s circulation. Mid-level access was incorporated to simplify movement, whether carrying luggage to bedrooms or groceries to the kitchen. The resulting design is an L-shaped residence that surrounds a large courtyard, reminiscent of traditional rural barns.

The main circulation axis, aligned with the entrance, leads the eye toward three expansive terraces that extend into the lush garden. A subtle half-level descent into the living room and verandas strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while maintaining a fluid spatial experience.

Italian Village Influence with Brazilian Essence

The concept continuously references the charm of an Italian village, translating it into the Brazilian context through verandas and open outdoor areas. Local brick, abundant in the region, dominates the courtyard and clads the house’s walls, promoting both aesthetic warmth and thermal comfort. The full-height glass living room facade is shielded by a veranda and two strategically placed trees, allowing ample natural light while mitigating heat gain.

Given Itu’s intense afternoon sun, the architects integrated an adjustable brise-soleil, ensuring optimal light control and maintaining comfortable interior temperatures throughout the day.

Interior and Outdoor Living

On the ground floor, the design accommodates two versatile guest bedrooms, with one capable of extending the living room via large sliding doors. A well-equipped outdoor kitchen is a central hub, reflecting the clients’ passion for cooking. From here, residents can descend to the pool area, seamlessly connecting to garden terraces along a continuous visual axis.

The upper floor features a mezzanine intimate living room overlooking the double-height ceiling of the living room below. Bedrooms receive abundant morning sunlight, while the master suite includes a terrace that integrates the bathroom with serene garden views, emphasizing connection with nature and enhancing the sense of privacy.

Materials and Sustainability

Lucio Fleury Arquitetura carefully selected materials to reinforce both sustainability and comfort. The extensive use of regional brick, combined with protective shading devices and integrated landscaping, ensures natural thermal regulation and reduces energy dependence. The project demonstrates an elegant balance between aesthetic refinement, environmental responsiveness, and functional planning.

The House in Itu exemplifies modern residential architecture that bridges cultural inspiration and environmental responsiveness. By combining Italian village motifs, Brazilian outdoor living traditions, and innovative climate-responsive solutions, this project offers a blueprint for sophisticated, sustainable living in contemporary Brazil.

All photographs are works of  Manuel Sá