Ricardo Azevedo Arquitecto Updates a 1980s Rectilinear Residence
It’s rare that a project moves seamlessly from sketchbook to construction, with design and build happening simultaneously on-site. But that’s what happened with a residential commission in Porto, Portugal, by Ricardo Azevedo Arquitecto. It helped that architect and client shared a vision. “We spoke the same language,” founder Ricardo Azevedo recalls, “and that gave us total freedom.” He describes the finished product, a 1980’s rectilinear residence that he updated with exterior zinc cladding, abundant glazing, and a free flow between indoors and out, as “the house of a gardener…someone who belongs to the trees, to the breeze.”
Since that same client is a wine enthusiast, the project scope also encompassed an addition for storing bottles. Although it’s off the living area in the main residence, it’s markedly different in appearance: an amoebalike form inspired by Alvar Aalto’s early work faced in vertical slats of kambala. “It’s meant to contrast the rest of the house,” Azevedo continues, “to bring diversity and a touch of emotion.”
Slats reappear inside the single room, wrapping the 150-square-foot envelope, but this time they’re Afzelia, an exotic variegated hardwood. Following the addition’s curves is a grid of stainless-steel cables and fastenings that form shelves for some 250 varieties—Azevedo’s oenophilic endeavor successfully blending impressive display with easy selecting. Saúde!
Behind the Design of a Wine Enthusiast’s Home
read more
Projects
6 Luxurious Residential Developments Around the World
Whether rental or condo, America or Asia, today’s residential developments are housing occupants in supreme style amid five-star amenities.
Projects
Frescoes Inspire This Coworking Space by Studio Pim in Lisbon, Portugal
Studio Pim highlights a series of striking frescoes for one meeting room in this Lisbon co-working office space.
Projects
Art and Nature Take Center Stage in This Aspen Residence
For a spectacular mountainside residence in Aspen, Colorado, CCY Architects creates a stunning space where the great outdoors meet great art.
recent stories
DesignWire
10 Questions With… Ceramicist Andile Dyalvane
South African ceramicist Andile Dyalvane discusses how he interprets his spiritual visions and cultural stories through clay and other materials.
DesignWire
8 Unmissable Highlights From The 13th Edition Of Salon Art + Design
Explore the standout moments from Salon Art + Design, showcasing everything from gleaming polished mirrors to lacquered chairs in candy hues.
DesignWire
Highlights from Editions, Dubai Design Week’s New Fair
Staged within the 10th edition of Dubai Design Week, Editions launches as the Middle East’s first-ever fair dedicated to limited edition art and design.