PI House by ArquitectosRT – Modern Urban Residence in Porto, Portugal

PI House, designed by ArquitectosRT, is a contemporary single-family residence located in the heart of Porto, Portugal. Completed in 2022 and spanning 172 m², the home seamlessly balances modern architectural interventions with the surrounding urban context. Strategically positioned at the end of a row of terraced houses, the design transforms a corner plot into a striking architectural statement while respecting the scale and character of its neighborhood.

The residence is thoughtfully organized across two distinct volumes, reflecting the building’s historical evolution and the client’s requirements. The east façade preserves minimal interventions, limited to a refined color update, while the west façade introduces a bolder architectural language with larger, dynamic openings. This approach strengthens the dialogue between the house and neighboring multi-family buildings, reinforcing its presence as both a private sanctuary and a visually engaging urban element.

A highlight of the design is the strong interior-exterior connection. The ground floor opens entirely to the exterior, creating fluid transitions between social spaces and outdoor areas. The north elevation acts as a transitional interface, harmonizing the old and new volumes. Here, a ventilated phenolic façade on the upper floor and the continuation of the existing wall on the ground level establish formal cohesion. Thoughtfully positioned doors and perforated panels enhance natural light, ventilation, and visual privacy throughout the home.

Inside, PI House is organized along a longitudinal axis, defined by a central staircase, skylight, and stained glass window. The entrance hall flows into the living, dining, and kitchen areas, fostering a functional yet elegant spatial hierarchy. The upper floor accommodates two bedrooms, a study, and a shared bathroom, while the basement includes a laundry area and garage. The staircase, positioned along the southern wall, ensures optimal daylight penetration, complementing the home’s limited solar orientation.

Construction materials and techniques emphasize thermal comfort, acoustic efficiency, and sustainability. The new extension mirrors the existing building’s characteristics, featuring insulated walls, plasterboard finishes, and ETICS systems for below-grade exterior walls. The flat-roof extension contrasts the retained ceramic tile roof, while the perforated north panel allows light and air flow without compromising privacy. The garage, integrated into the boundary wall, ensures smooth access from Rua Santo Tirso while benefiting from natural ventilation and daylight.

PI House exemplifies modern residential design in an urban setting, where careful integration of old and new, functional planning, and thoughtful material selection come together to create a home that is both practical and architecturally refined. It stands as a benchmark for contemporary urban residences in Porto, illustrating how modern design can enhance the existing urban fabric while meeting client needs.

All Photographs are works of Ivo Tavares Studio