Nestled amid the serene pine forests and picturesque rice fields of Comporta, the beach house is an idyllic oasis set amidst the rolling sand dunes, surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant wildlife of the area. Inspired by the untouched, untamed beaches of the region, the design of Comporta 107 House sought to recreate this pristine environment, complete with its distinctive dunes and lush vegetation.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
Comporta 107 House’s Design Concept
The Comporta 107 House comprises two distinct, sleek volumes characterized by their remarkable transparency, offering a unique perspective on the intricate natural surroundings. The ground floor features a warm, wooden structure, while perched above it is a sturdy concrete volume on the first floor. Thoughtfully designed patios on the ground floor seamlessly merge with the sandy terrain and dune vegetation, extending the essence of the outdoors into the social spaces. These areas can also be fully enclosed, preserving the feeling of being both inside and out.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
In a deliberate pursuit of transparency and an unwavering commitment to purity in design, the concrete structure on the first floor of Comporta 107 House is strikingly supported by just two points at the outer edges of the volume. This unique approach eliminates the need for central support, resulting in an unobstructed, open expanse for the living room and kitchen. These spaces seamlessly flow into the outdoor area that connects with the pool and interior patios. The boundary that traditionally separates the indoors and outdoors becomes almost indistinguishable, creating a harmonious and fluid transition between the two.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
Incorporating an extensive array of vegetation outside, we’ve adopted a biophilic approach, seamlessly integrating nature into every facet of the design. From the bedrooms to the social areas, this choice ensures a profound connection with the natural world. We’ve thoughtfully selected various native plant species, skillfully merging them with the architectural elements.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
Our outdoor spaces in Comporta 107 House , including terraces, balconies, and gardens, are meticulously crafted to celebrate the inherent beauty of nature while also offering longevity and complementing the interior spaces. The seamless transition of materials and design from the inside to the outside creates a profound sense of depth, enhancing the overall atmosphere. This design intention extends to the surrounding pine forest, beautifully intertwining with the carefully planned dune vegetation that gracefully envelops the pool area.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
The generous ceiling height within the living spaces, coupled with the expansive full-height windows that can be fully opened, work in unison to create a seamless infusion of natural light. This dynamic interplay between the interior and exterior fosters a harmonious connection, effectively bridging the gap between the Comporta 107 House and the captivating natural surroundings of the locale.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
When it comes to our choice of materials, we’ve opted for exposed concrete, a versatile medium that enables us to craft both a sense of solidity and visual lightness exactly where and when we desire. In addition, we’ve introduced uniquely textured wood, specially designed for Comporta 107 House, which finds its place on both the exterior and interior surfaces. We’ve also incorporated corten steel and large, sand-colored natural stones, some of which feature embedded fossils, evoking the essence of the beach and the natural surroundings.
© FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
Project Info:
Architects: dEMM Arquitectura
Area: 400 m²
Year: 2023
Photographs: FG+SG | Fernando Guerra
Lead Architects: Paulo Fernandes Silva | Diana Fernandes Silva
Contractor: J. Camilo
City: Comporta
Country: Portugal
