Toque Toque Grande II House: A Sustainable Beach House Design in Brazil Integrating Nature and Architecture

A Harmonious Coastal Retreat

Nestled along the Brazilian coastline, Toque Toque Grande II House by VD Arquitetura is a masterful example of sustainable beach house design in Brazil. Designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, the house is divided into two distinct blocks, interconnected by a ramped circulation volume that ensures fluid movement throughout the structure. By respecting the land’s topography and incorporating local materials, the residence creates an immersive experience where architecture and nature coexist in perfect harmony.

Architectural Layout Responding to the Landscape

The house occupies only 40% of the lot as permitted by local land use regulations. This led to a spatial composition that maximizes both privacy and openness. The first volume, positioned on the ground floor, houses the kitchen and dining room, serving as an extension between the pool and the lush garden. The second volume, situated at a higher level due to the natural slope of the terrain, accommodates the bedrooms on the lower level for privacy, while the upper level features a spacious living and games room opening onto a terrace. The rooftop terrace offers a contemplative space, seamlessly integrating the built environment with panoramic coastal views.

Minimalist Façade Concealing Expansive Interiors

From the street, the house appears as a discreet, single-story structure, offering a sense of mystery. However, upon entering, visitors are met with a dynamic interplay of levels, revealing an expansive interior that unfolds in layers. This contrast between the modest exterior and the dramatic internal spatial arrangement enhances the dwelling’s sense of discovery and connection to its natural setting.

Sustainable Materials Rooted in the Site

A fundamental aspect of this sustainable beach house design in Brazil is its use of locally sourced materials. The stone gables, a defining architectural feature, were constructed using stones extracted from the site during land clearing and level adjustments. This approach minimizes environmental impact while reinforcing the home's integration with the surrounding landscape. The use of natural ventilation within the circulation block, enabled by open elements, reduces the need for mechanical cooling, further enhancing the residence’s sustainability.

An Outdoor Living Space Merging Architecture and Nature

Between the two main blocks, a deck with a swimming pool serves as the central leisure area. This space is designed for relaxation and social gatherings, creating a seamless transition between the home’s interiors and the natural surroundings. Large stones, preserved from the original site, were incorporated into the landscape design, reinforcing a sense of continuity between built and natural elements.

A Model for Sustainable Coastal Living

Toque Toque Grande II House by VD Arquitetura exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to sustainable beach house design in Brazil. By responding to the site’s natural conditions, utilizing locally sourced materials, and integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces, the project establishes a model for environmentally conscious coastal architecture. The home’s design not only respects its surroundings but enhances the experience of coastal living, offering a tranquil and immersive retreat along the Brazilian shore.

All Photographs are works of Nelson Kon