Senses House by UP3 Arquitetura: A Refined Fusion of Nature, Luxury, and Sustainable Design

Nestled in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Senses House by UP3 Arquitetura emerges as a captivating architectural oasis that blurs the line between modern luxury and natural integration. This innovative project, designed by architects Cadé Marino, Michelle Wilkinson, and Thiago Morsch, was featured at CasaCorRio 2023, a prestigious exhibition of design and architecture, where it was curated as a serene hotel retreat that invites guests to reconnect with the environment.

Conceptualizing the Senses House: A Fusion of Contemporary and Natural Design

Senses House stands as a perfect example of contemporary rural architecture, where the focus is on creating spaces that emphasize the connection between interior environments and their surrounding natural landscapes. Inspired by the calm and simplicity of country houses, the design is centered around awakening the senses through the use of organic shapes, natural materials, and an intuitive approach to spatial design.

Architect Cadé Marino explains that the concept behind Senses House was to craft an environment that evokes different sensations in the visitors by combining natural textures, optimal ventilation, and lighting, with a design that intuitively connects inhabitants to the surrounding environment. “The name ‘Senses’ reflects our intention to awaken sensations through every material and detail,” Marino adds.

Architecture and Materials: Sustainable Design Meets Silent Luxury

The design of the house revolves around the use of recycled containers and a metal structure, expanding the built area to 105m². This eco-friendly approach contributes to the sustainable architecture movement by repurposing materials for modern living. The house is assembled using three reused containers, maintaining a minimal ecological footprint while enhancing structural flexibility.

Materials That Connect Us to Nature

The architects of UP3 Arquitetura emphasized natural luxury as a defining feature of the house's interior architecture. Wood, stone, cotton, linen, leather, and plants were carefully incorporated into the design, providing a tactile and visual connection to the surrounding nature. The house’s interior offers a timeless, discreet, and elegant atmosphere, highlighting that true luxury is less about ostentation and more about quality, longevity, and an emphasis on well-being.

“Silent luxury,” as Michelle Wilkinson puts it, isn’t about drawing attention but creating spaces that feel naturally luxurious and timeless. The use of high-quality materials, such as travertine marble slabs on the walls and portals, and wooden planks on the floor, brings together sustainability and refined elegance.

Fluid and Open Spaces: Seamless Integration Between Indoors and Outdoors

Senses House maximizes space by incorporating fluid layouts that allow seamless transitions between different areas, eliminating abrupt visual barriers. The interior is subtly compartmentalized to ensure that spaces remain open, airy, and inviting, promoting a sense of freedom and connection.

The main facade, which is wrapped in aluminum frames that serve as pivoting sunshades, is further enhanced by a special wood-like paint finish and wicker mesh closure, contributing to the natural aesthetic of the design. Traditional glass windows have been replaced by this innovative material choice, creating a natural look and reducing environmental impact.

A Central Element: Nature at the Core of the Design

One of the most striking features of Senses House is the central tree that passes through an opening in the ceiling. This feature creates a winter garden within the house, serving as both a natural divider and a symbol of harmony between the built environment and nature. Surrounded by bird’s nest ferns, the tree connects the social area with the more private parts of the house. “The opening is completely open to let the rain and sun in whenever they want, without ceremony,” jokes Cadé Marino, highlighting the house’s celebration of nature’s organic rhythms.

Wellness-Centric Spaces: The Heart of Comfort and Care

In line with the overall philosophy of well-being and relaxation, the house includes a spa bathroom, designed as a sanctuary for self-care. The soaking tub, strategically placed against a glass wall, offers breathtaking views of the external garden, reinforcing the connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

The kitchen also reflects the home's dedication to simplicity and functionality. A sleek island design with an integrated sideboard and buffet provides ample space for cooking and socializing, while Dekton surfaces hide appliances to maintain a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

A Harmonious Blend of Modern Design and Nature

In conclusion, Senses House by UP3 Arquitetura offers a masterful blend of modern design, sustainable principles, and natural luxury. The space is a reflection of how architecture can foster well-being, respect for the environment, and a deep connection to nature. As Michelle Wilkinson aptly puts it, “The combination of transparent glass, integrated spaces, natural materials, and minimalist shapes sums up the essence of our vision at CasaCor.” This project is a prime example of sustainable architecture, emphasizing well-being, luxury, and timeless design.

All Photographs are works of Denilson Machado – MCA Estúdio