Architectural design often emerges as a dialogue between the site’s intrinsic qualities and the specific needs of its future inhabitants. The Laguna House, designed by TETRO Arquitetura, exemplifies this relationship, reflecting a meticulous understanding of its context in Nova Lima. Simultaneously, it accommodates the unique requirements of the homeowners. The project serves as a testimony to the potency of design that interprets both its natural environment and the lifestyle of its residents.
Laguna House Technical Information
- Architects: TETRO Arquitetura
- Location: Alphaville Lagoa dos Ingleses, Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Topics: Brazilian Houses
- Area: 453 m2
- Project Completion Year: 2021
- Photographs: © Luisa Lage
The project for the Laguna House was designed as a response to the interpretation of its context, with a sensitive and subjective reading of the site and the needs of the people who will inhabit the space. The architectural solution was the construction of a large cantilevered slab, which serves as a shield to control solar incidence.
– TETRO Architects
Laguna House Photographs
Laguna House: A Confluence of Vistas
Located in a condominium, the Laguna House is fortunate to have a remarkable view of a lake, enveloping mountains, and breathtaking sunsets. However, the site presented its challenges, specifically the lack of substantial vegetation and the direct sunlight from the West. TETRO Arquitetura addressed these elements with exceptional tact, devising a design that not only magnifies the views but also modulates solar exposure.
The linchpin of the architectural solution lies in a large cantilevered slab. Serving multiple purposes, this slab acts as a visual anchor that underscores the surrounding landscape while also acting as a shield against the harsh afternoon sun. Consequently, the interior spaces are bathed in a soft glow of natural light during the late afternoon when the temperatures are more comfortable.
Understanding the future residents’ needs was crucial in shaping the Laguna House. One of the primary requests was to construct a functional home that could comfortably host relatives and friends, particularly on weekends. Another important consideration was minimizing the use of stairs for day-to-day activities.
To this end, the architects allocated all the main functional spaces—including the main suite, living and dining rooms, kitchen, and laundry room—on a single level. This strategy resulted in a home that is not only convenient but also congruent with the lifestyle of its inhabitants.
The lower level of the house hosts spaces designed for greater use during weekends. These include three guest bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a gourmet area. This level complements the upper one, allowing for an ideal balance between everyday living and weekend socializing, all while maintaining the home’s overall environmental and thermal comfort.
Laguna House Plans
Laguna House Image Gallery
About TETRO Architecture
TETRO Architecture, stationed in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, is an architectural firm led by architects Carlos Maia, Débora Mendes, and Igor Macedo. The firm bases its practice on meticulously examining each project’s unique premises and conditions, including the site and client’s needs, aiming for bespoke solutions that are both unique and unrepeatable. Fundamental attributes of their work encompass a harmonious integration with nature, the utilization of natural materials, and the exploration of architectural voids.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Collaborators: Laura Georgia Rodrigues Layoun, Déborah Martins, Thamara Faria, Octavio Pena
- Concrete structural design: MV Estruturas
- Hydraulic installations project: GS Engenharia
- Electrical installation design: Antônio Sérgio Carvalho
- Construction: Rodrigo Galo
