PORTUGAL MODERN

Nestled near Avenida da Boavista, the houses designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura are a testament to innovative architectural adaptation to sloping terrains. The project reimagines the landscape, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and nature through three distinct typologies, each strategically placed on separate platforms.

On the upper platform, the courtyard houses offer a serene retreat, each opening onto a private garden that provides a secluded oasis. These homes emphasize privacy and introspection, allowing residents to enjoy a personal connection with nature. The middle platform features houses with entrances from above, ingeniously designed to integrate with the terrain, offering a unique spatial experience as one descends into the living spaces. The lower platform hosts the three-storey houses, which rise elegantly, providing expansive views of the City Park, the largest urban park in the country, designed by Sidónio Pardal.

Souto de Moura’s vision was to create a seamless interaction between the built environment and its natural surroundings. He stated, “Architecture is about transforming reality, not just replicating it.” This philosophy is evident in the way the houses are embedded into the landscape, respecting the natural topography while enhancing the living experience. The use of natural materials further strengthens this connection, with stone and wood elements that echo the surrounding environment.

The design not only maximizes the aesthetic and functional potential of the site but also fosters a dialogue between the architecture and the park, offering residents a continuous visual and experiential link to the lush greenery. This project exemplifies Souto de Moura’s commitment to creating spaces that are both innovative and deeply rooted in their context, providing a living experience that is as much about the environment as it is about the architecture itself.


Publications on Casas Quinta da Avenida by Eduardo Souto de Moura

Guia de Arquitetura Eduardo Souto de Moura Projetos Construídos PortugalGuia de Arquitetura Eduardo Souto de Moura Projetos Construídos Portugal, Architectural Guide Eduardo Souto de Moura Built Projects Portugal, ISBN: 9789899846265 Book