In the picturesque locale of Cacupé, Florianópolis, where crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches meet a rugged mountainous backdrop, TETRO has crafted the Ponte House. Completed in 2024, this residence harmoniously integrates built form with the natural environment, drawing inspiration from the region’s distinctive geographical and cultural elements.
Ponte House Technical Information
- Architects: TETRO Architecture
- Location: Cacupé, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brasil
- Topics: Beach Houses
- Built Area: 1000 m2
- Completion Year: 2024
- Photographs: © Joana França
The main structure of the house can be described as two beams that emerge from the ground and rest on two pillars. The bedrooms and social areas develop around these beams. On the lower floor, the swimming pool, suspended over two other rooms, advances towards the sea.
– TETRO Architects
Ponte House Photographs
Architectural Vision and Design
Ponte House, designed by architects Carlos Maia, Débora Mendes, and Igor Macedo, emerges from the hillside, offering a stunning view of the sea and the continental mountains. The design pays homage to the iconic Hercílio Luz Bridge, not only through its structural elements but also by embodying the spirit of connection and suspension that the bridge symbolizes.
The primary structure of the house is ingeniously simple yet profoundly impactful. Two main beams rise from the ground, supported by a pair of pillars, creating a robust framework around which the living spaces are organized. This structural clarity allows for a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the connection with the surrounding landscape.
Sustainable and Aesthetic Innovations
A key feature of Ponte House is its treatment of solar incidence. The use of generous steel eaves not only provides practical benefits by minimizing the effects of the setting sun but also introduces a visual rhythm that echoes the perforated sheets of the Hercílio Luz Bridge. These eaves are both a functional and aesthetic response to the local climate, showcasing a sophisticated blend of form and function.
The house’s westward orientation is meticulously planned to offer panoramic views of the sea and the Serra Catarinense mountains. This alignment ensures that residents enjoy a dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, enhancing the living experience with ever-changing natural scenes.
Integration with Nature
One of the most striking aspects of Ponte House is its integration with the natural landscape. The lower floor features a swimming pool that appears to float above the rooms below, extending towards the sea and creating a visual continuity with the horizon. Inside, the use of natural stones further reinforces the connection to the local environment, bringing the textures and colors of the surrounding landscape into the interior spaces.
The landscaping, executed by Jardim e Cia and Terraço Paisagismo, complements the architectural vision by blending the built environment with native vegetation, creating a seamless transition between the house and its natural setting. This thoughtful approach ensures that Ponte House not only sits within its environment but becomes an integral part of it.
Craftsmanship and Materials
The choice of materials and the quality of craftsmanship are evident throughout Ponte House. From the windows and glass by Lohn Esquadrias to the cladding and finishes by Cosentino, every detail has been carefully considered to enhance both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the residence. Local materials and expertise, including woodwork by Bontempo and marblework by MG Superfícies, highlight a commitment to sustainability and regional craftsmanship.
Ponte House Plans
Ponte House Image Gallery
About TETRO Arquitetura
TETRO is a distinguished architectural firm renowned for its innovative and context-sensitive designs. Founded by visionary architects Carlos Maia, Débora Mendes, and Igor Macedo, TETRO focuses on creating harmonious and sustainable structures that integrate seamlessly with their surroundings. The firm has a strong commitment to blending aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency, often drawing inspiration from natural elements and local characteristics. With a portfolio that includes a range of residential, commercial, and public projects, TETRO has established itself as a leader in contemporary architecture, celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design solutions.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Responsible Architects: Carlos Maia, Débora Mendes, and Igor Macedo
- Contributors: Bruno Bontempo, Bianca Carvalho, Bruna Maciel, Saulo Saraiva, Sabrina Freitas
- Structure: MV estruturas
- Hydraulic; Electric: CA engenharia
- Lighting Design: Allume
- Landscaping: Jardim e Cia; Terraço Paisagismo
