Nestled within the prolific tropical forest of Itacare, Brazil is a sprawling residence that makes a case for opulent living in the countryside. TVN House is a luxury development with a strong emphasis on environmental sensitivity. The architecture is predefined by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes and its mandate to minimize its impact onto the area. What resulted is an elegant modernist structure that sleekly stands amidst the mountains overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
The architects at Saraiva e Associados had to first analyze the site to assess how to best go about designing the TVN House. They decided to build on a slope to minimize the need for extensive earth work, provide better views, ensure privacy, and create more space with less construction. Because of this, the house would not disrupt the delicate balance of the tropical forest that attracted the developers in the first place. The site offers users the opportunity to experience the gardens and explore the surrounding forest.
The sea-facing facade uses clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimalist stylings in an act of restraint. This further highlights the beauty of nature as it minimizes its visual impact. A low profile, formed by the flat roof, further supports this effort. The wide eaves of the roof make the interiors appear recessed in contrast. This reservation in building’s volume reduces its imposition on its location while also forming outdoor spaces.
The road-facing facade is even more understated as it only features a single level from the entry elevation. A central tree crowns the rounding entrance pavement in tandem with surrounding flowering bushes reinforcing a sense of splendor. The front lawn is immaculately trimmed and shaped in contrast to the wild growth of the nearby forest. A taupe-like desaturated palette eases the structure into the environment.
The TVN House excels in blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces, creating a seamless connection with the tropical landscape. Literal and figurative natural elements are interpreted and incorporated in a variety of ways. For example, a replication of vines acts as railings for stairs while stumps of wood are used as low-counters. A penchant for wood lattice-work finishes and furnishings further reinforces the settings and context of the building.
A large plant box defines the central courtyard with an exuberant amount of plants, bushes, and trees. The open ceiling directly above it further highlights its pivotal role. Furthermore, along the building’s perimeter, tropical flora borders the exteriors in a fashion that obscures the structure with nature. TVN house, in its totality, softens the difference between the built and the natural.
The designers also included additional structures that add to the exotic experience of its place. The Orchid Botanical Garden houses a slew of orchids within its geometric prism figure. This additional prefabricated functionality helps in maintaining the green-decorative elements throughout the grounds. The Beach Bar offers a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment underneath its organic curves made from bamboo and rattan.
A refined and simple palette of concrete, wood, and glass makes construction more manageable while complementing the surrounding landscape. Wood finishes are latticed and slatted in an interplay of contemporary and vernacular workmanship of material. Other natural materials such as a variety of stone finishes, ranging from large rubble course to pebble-wash, adds a complimentary touch. The smooth polish of concrete floors and walls brings a modern impression that is accented by the sleek metal trimmings of its expansive openings.
The TVN House contains a rich assortment of amenities for the leisure of its occupants. All bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms and panoramic views. Ponds are placed on the edges of rooms to connect the spaces to the coast while cooling the sea breeze. Multiple spaces for open-air lounging dispenses a variety of settings to savor the outdoors. A deck, floating over the pool, allows one to enjoy the sunlight and scenery. Private balconies for each room set a serene mood for rest and relaxation.
Sustainability further aligns with the designer’s philosophy of minimal environmental impact. The vast exposure to the outdoors inherently brings in light and wind that minimizes consumption. Conscious construction methods, ranging from pre-fabrication to sourcing locally, furthers the project’s eco-friendly objectives. Lastly, the inclusion of an abundance of the greenery helps stave off the aggressive tropical heat and humidity via shade and carbon capture.
The TVN House is a shining example of how architecture can be planned, constructed, and used in harmony with its natural context. The designers, Saraiva e Associados, crafted a luxury experience infused with environmental consciousness among its users within each space.
Read more: Living Privately in The Tropics: The Secret Garden House Proves You Can
Photos by Fernando Guerra FG + SG
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