Passive House by Mareines Arquitetura: Sustainable Living in Harmony with Nature

A Contemporary Haven of Tranquility and Environmental Harmony

Conceived during the global pandemic, Passive House by Mareines Arquitetura embodies a return to simplicity, autonomy, and deep connection with nature. Situated in the rural interior of São Paulo, Brazil, the residence stands on a reforested site developed in collaboration with Vistara Landscape Architecture — a setting that harmoniously blends architectural integrity with ecological consciousness.

For Ivo Mareines, co-founder of Mareines Arquitetura, the design was born from the desire to “create a home that emerges from the very earth, using its materials and respecting its flows.” More than a sustainable residence, Passive House is a built expression of coexistence — a living organism that reflects environmental mindfulness and architectural serenity.

Conceived during the isolation of the global pandemic, the Passive House by Mareines Arquitetura represents a thoughtful response to the growing desire for simplicity, autonomy, and deep connection with nature. Situated on a sprawling plot in the interior of São Paulo, the property underwent a sensitive process of reforestation in collaboration with Vistara Landscape Architecture, reinforcing the project’s ecological commitment.

The design embraces the natural contours of the land, fostering a dialogue between architecture and environment. The house emerges organically from the terrain, incorporating materials such as wood and brick, both structurally and aesthetically, reflecting a philosophy that sustainability should be visible and tangible.

“It was important for the house to emerge from the very earth, utilizing its materials and respecting its flows. It’s not just about being sustainable — it needs to reflect that sustainability.” — Ivo Mareines, Architect and Co-founder of Mareines Arquitetura

A Garden as the Heart of the Design

The residence is anchored by a walled triangular garden, reminiscent of monastic cloisters, offering a serene space for meditation and reflection. This central courtyard is protected by three architectural arms, creating a sanctuary of tranquility that connects the home’s interior with the natural landscape.

Fluid and Thoughtful Spatial Organization

The Passive House comprises two main volumes. The ground floor houses social areas and guest suites, arranged in a fluid layout that encourages continuous movement. Rather than imposing zoning through walls, the design utilizes natural elements—such as a reflective water mirror, curved rooflines, and strategic furniture placement—to define spaces and moods.

The upper volume, elevated above the garden, is reserved for the master suite. This private retreat includes a home office and offers panoramic views of the reforested landscape, providing maximum privacy even during social gatherings.

Architectural Elements That Breathe

One of the most striking features is the curved exposed brick roof, which not only gives the house a distinctive character but also serves a functional role as a rainwater collector, channeling water into the pool. Generous double slabs and deep eaves support passive cooling strategies, eliminating the need for air conditioning while enhancing comfort throughout the year.

A Contemporary Home Rooted in Its Surroundings

The Passive House is a model of contemporary, ecologically sensitive architecture. By responding to its surroundings rather than imposing upon them, the residence creates warm, inviting spaces that feel inherently connected to the land.

“This house brings a feeling of absolute peace. It’s as if it was born there — with the earth and for the earth. It does not impose presence; it welcomes.” — Ivo Mareines

All photographs are works of Leonardo Finotti