Two Houses in Ilhas Selvagens
These two houses were developed in the context of a public contest whose program aims to seasonally accommodate researchers and rangers of the deserted islands. This project search for a design able to answer three prepositions: the different geological and topographic characteristics of each island, the unusual character of dwelling and the challenge of the possible construction processes.
Selvagem Grande The house will be built near Portinho das Cagarras, at the foot of the cliff, above the high tide. It is intended to be an obvious answer to the geographical and environmental features of the island - the waves and the cliff.
The house is meant to be felt as a fortress, a place of strength that is able to resist environment over time, as it simultaneously, is able to provide the needed tranquility and peace.
The structural bulwarks support this idea of strength, drawing the balconies and allowing the light to come inside. This drawing also suggests a spatial continuity where you can see inside/outside/inside.
Functionally, the house is in the upper floor and all technical areas are in the ground floor.
The structural concrete that gives the needed strength and durability, mixed with the local stone, harmonizes with the cliff, disappearing in the landscape.
The orthogonal drawing and repetition are the key for an easier construction and the possible prefabrication of some elements.
Selvagem Pequena In contrary to the first island, this one is flat and sandy. Taking that into consideration, the plan of this house is drawn as a square to not be unidirectional and its position is based on the existent paths.
The spatial composition is based on a four module rotation and the central space is the connector between them.
All the exterior spaces needed are covered by a similar shaped roof, also designed with similar principles.
Constructively, this house is built with a prefabricated modular structure.
