Mare House by Vitório Ecker Arquitetura: A Minimalist Concrete Residence Framing Landscape, Light, and Leisure

Located in Brazil, Mare House by Vitório Ecker Arquitetura is a refined example of contemporary residential architecture that blends minimalism, structural innovation, and environmental sensitivity. Completed in 2022 and spanning 1110 m², the project reflects a thoughtful balance between bold material expression and functional spatial planning.

Concept and Spatial Organization

The house is composed of three distinct exposed concrete volumes, arranged hierarchically to separate functions into private, social/service, and fitness zones. This clear zoning enhances usability while maintaining a cohesive architectural language.

The private volume is elevated above the social and service areas, creating a dynamic composition while offering expansive views. Its displacement generates a sea-facing contemplation deck at the front and a wide rear balcony, reinforcing indoor-outdoor living. Meanwhile, the fitness volume is positioned separately within lush greenery, ensuring privacy and a tranquil retreat for the residents.

Orientation and Climate Strategy

The layout was carefully designed to optimize solar orientation and align with the client’s needs. Key spaces such as the living room and bedrooms face the lake and sunset, enhancing natural light and visual comfort.

A covered porch with an integrated outdoor fireplace acts as a transitional space, protecting against winter winds while providing shade in summer. Positioned at the same level as the living room, it creates a seamless connection between interior and exterior, allowing the home to function as a large open living space during warmer months.

Outdoor Living and Landscape Integration

The outdoor area is designed for leisure and relaxation, featuring a 70 m² swimming pool, a Parrilla (barbecue) space, and expansive lawns. These elements extend the social life of the house beyond its interior.

The landscape softens the strong concrete volumes, creating a harmonious balance between built form and natural surroundings. This integration enhances both aesthetics and user experience.

Materiality and Design Language

The project embraces a minimalist palette dominated by exposed concrete, giving the house a bold and monolithic appearance. Large glass openings introduce transparency and natural light, while wooden slatted panels provide privacy and add warmth to the overall composition.

This combination of materials creates a refined contrast between solidity and openness, reinforcing the house’s contemporary identity.

Structural Innovation

A key highlight of the project is the 16-meter clear span in the living room, complemented by a cantilevered balcony. To achieve this without compromising aesthetics, the architects used post-tensioning technology, where steel cables are embedded and tensioned within the concrete.

This advanced structural approach allows for large खुला spaces without heavy beams, maintaining the clean and minimalist design.

Functionality and Comfort

Despite its large scale, Mare House prioritizes comfort and livability. The layout ensures smooth circulation and a strong connection between spaces, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Natural light, ventilation, and material warmth contribute to a balanced living environment.

Mare House by Vitório Ecker Arquitetura is a powerful expression of minimalist architecture that integrates structure, landscape, and lifestyle. Its thoughtful design demonstrates how contemporary homes can be both visually striking and deeply functional.

All photographs are works of  Gabriel Konrath