House in Príncipe Real

A few meters from the public garden of Príncipe Real, a small urban plot of 41 square metres circumscribes this 5 storeys high single-family dwelling, which immediately surprises us due to the design of its façade. A group of rules transformed the decorative motif of the original tiles into an abstract pattern that is materialized in three levels: a base of plain colour tiles, a body of bas-relief tiles and an entablature made of perforated metal, pervious to light. Inside, the strong contrast between wood panels, white stucco surfaces and white marble with grey veins grants the house a lively environment, at times surprising. Each floor has different functions and configuration, and they all communicate through a geometrically variable vertical space, creating a rhythmic and progressive route, flooded with natural light. The rationale of a vertical house is opposed to the spatially scarce plot, being revealed as one of the remarkable characteristics of the interior space. Just like a sculpture, the space is sculpted on each floor, opening towards the light and the view over the Tejo.