House 1 in Nevogilde, designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura, embodies a minimalist architectural philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and the essential. Inspired by the “heirs of Mies van der Rohe,” Souto de Moura’s design reflects a deep engagement with modernist principles, focusing on clarity, precision, and the seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces.

The house is strategically positioned on a nearly flat site, with a defining wall that separates the main living areas from the annexes and service spaces. This wall not only organizes the spatial layout but also creates a sense of privacy and delineation. The building’s design is characterized by its closed sides and open ends, allowing for a dynamic interaction with the environment. The eastern side houses the private rooms, while the western side features a living room that opens up to the landscape.

In the living room, the use of minimal framing dematerializes the boundaries between the interior and the exterior, enhancing the connection with the surrounding environment. This design choice reflects Souto de Moura’s intent to create a space that feels both protected and expansive, blurring the lines between the built and natural worlds.

Souto de Moura describes the house as “drawn on the limit,” highlighting its precarious balance and the subtle tension between structure and openness. The stone walls and the proximity of the neighbor’s house contribute to this delicate equilibrium, anchoring the building while allowing it to maintain a sense of lightness and fluidity.

The house’s laconic design speaks to Souto de Moura’s belief in stating only the essential, inviting occupants to interpret and complete the experience themselves. This approach not only respects the site’s natural beauty but also encourages a personal connection with the space, making House 1 a profound exploration of architectural restraint and elegance.

David Chipperfield is one of two architects at Bom Sucesso Resort who is not from Portugal. he brings the number of Pitziker price holder tow total of 3, ehich makes this place evenen more speacil.
His villas, positioned at the lowest part of the resort, just steps from the Óbidos Lagoon, are maybe the most elegant homes in the development.

Villa by David Chipperfield
4 Villas (2 not built)
Plot 329-332, Caminho da Lagoa
Each villa is spread over two floors, carefully designed to enhance views and privacy. A bridge connects the carport to the upper floor, where the main living areas are located, offering stunning views of the Óbidos Lagoon. The private rooms are positioned on the lower floor, ensuring seclusion and a direct connection to the garden and pool.

As Chipperfield describes:

“From the entrance hall, you have a direct view of the garden and the Óbidos Lagoon. From here, you enter the dining room, living room, and kitchen. Continuing from the lobby, a wide outdoor staircase leads over the terrace directly into the garden and pool, creating a strong optical connection between house and garden.” – David Chipperfield

David Chipperfield is one of two architects at Bom Sucesso Resort who is not from Portugal. He brings the number of Pritzker Prize winners involved in the project to three, making this place even more special.

David Chipperfield designed four villas at Bom Sucesso Resort, located at Plot 329-332 on Caminho da Lagoa, with two of them remaining unbuilt. His villas, positioned at the lowest part of the resort, just steps from the Óbidos Lagoon, are perhaps the most elegant homes in the development.

T5, Lot 329-332 at Bom Sucesso Resort (2 unbuilt)

Located near the medieval village of Óbidos, Bom Sucesso Resort is an ambitious architectural endeavor that brings together the work of renowned contemporary architects. Among the 600 villas spread across its 150 hectares, Luís Carrilho da Graça’s 14 modern homes stand out for their bold design, spatial organization, and seamless integration with the landscape.

Originally envisioned in white, these villas instead became known for their striking red façades, a defining feature that gives them a strong architectural presence. Positioned along the golf course, overlooking holes 12 and 13, the houses blend harmoniously with centuries-old olive trees and the surrounding terrain. Unlike conventional layouts that place dwellings at the center of plots, Carrilho da Graça positioned his houses along the periphery, allowing for expansive courtyards that serve as the heart of each home. This design ensures privacy while fostering a sense of openness and connection to nature.

The architectural vision emphasizes strict horizontality, with the houses appearing as elegant reference planes that follow the natural contours of the land. Some villas extend like bridges, allowing visitors to see underneath the elevated living spaces, reinforcing the seamless indoor-outdoor experience. High ceilings and tall doors enhance the sense of space and light, contributing to the minimalist yet sophisticated aesthetic. Notably, the absence of dividing walls or hedges allows the architecture itself to define boundaries, further integrating the homes into the landscape.

Carrilho da Graça’s project includes 14 villas (T3 and T4), some with garages, located at Caminho das Magnólias—four of which remain unbuilt. As the architect explains:
“The concept of building the houses along the site boundary leaves room for large gardens and courtyards, which ensures a high level of privacy for each individual villa. The various living areas are designed around this spacious outdoor area.”

His work at Bom Sucesso Resort is a testament to his commitment to creating functional, elegant spaces that harmonize with their surroundings. These villas are extensively documented on his official webpage, featuring detailed architectural plans, and are highlighted in Guia de Arquitetura Carrilho da Graça – Projetos Construídos, underscoring their significance within his body of work.

T3-4, Lot 190-202 at Bom Sucesso Resort (4 unbuilt)

Nestled on the serene banks of the River Lima, this hostel is a testament to João Luís Carrilho da Graça’s architectural ingenuity and sensitivity to the natural environment. The design was born from a competition by the Portuguese Youth Institute, with the layout ingeniously shaped around a cluster of majestic trees that form a central square. This natural focal point is embraced by the building’s two L-shaped wings, creating a harmonious dialogue between architecture and nature.

The ground floor is a vibrant hub, housing the reception, recreation room, restaurant, and essential services, fostering a communal atmosphere. Ascend to the upper floor, and you’ll find twenty-five thoughtfully designed rooms. The east wing features double rooms with balconies offering tranquil views of Viana do Castelo Park, while the south wing’s quadruple rooms boast vistas of the picturesque River Lima.

Carrilho da Graça’s vision was to use white concrete, reminiscent of his work on the Pavilion of Knowledge, but economic constraints led to the use of regular concrete coated with an acrylic resin. This choice resulted in a smooth, yet robust finish, echoing a subtle brutalist aesthetic. The building’s Corbusian influence is evident, particularly in the color palette of the hallways, inspired by Le Corbusier’s 1931 selections for Salubra.

The hostel’s design philosophy emphasizes a seamless integration with its surroundings, respecting the existing landscape while providing a modern, functional space for youth and travelers. Carrilho da Graça’s approach reflects a deep appreciation for both the built and natural environments, creating a space that is as much about experience as it is about form.

Carlos Prata contributed eight villas to the Bom Sucesso Resort; They are close to the tennis court and provide excellent views of the Óbidos Lagoon.

“The rooms are divided into two areas: The living rooms face east. The bedrooms face west. The living area consists of the dining room and kitchen, connected by a sliding door and the living room. A covered corridor leads from this to the courtyard, which serves as a passage to the individual rooms in the living area. This means that a constant flow between inside and outside is possible when the weather is nice.” Carlos Prata

T3 and 4, Lot 289- 296 at Bom Sucesso Resort (4 unbuilt)

The São Bento subway station, nestled within a UNESCO World Heritage area, is a testament to Álvaro Siza’s architectural prowess. Designed under “Avenida da Ponte,” the station is a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic elegance, embodying Siza’s vision of creating spaces that resonate with their environment. The station’s five levels—surface, high mezzanine, low mezzanine, quays, and sub-quays—are all adorned with tiles, a nod to Portugal’s rich ceramic tradition.

Siza’s design philosophy emphasizes simplicity and clarity, aiming to create spaces that are both practical and visually striking. He once remarked, “Architecture is about transforming reality, not just replicating it.” This ethos is evident in the station’s design, where each level is meticulously crafted to facilitate seamless movement while maintaining a distinct identity.

The station’s interaction with its surroundings is subtle yet profound. Despite its connection to the Souto Moura stations, Siza’s design stands independently, asserting itself as one of the most iconic in the system. The use of natural light and open spaces creates a dynamic interplay between the interior and exterior, enhancing the commuter experience.

Materials play a crucial role in the station’s design. The extensive use of tiles not only pays homage to local craftsmanship but also adds a tactile quality to the space. The station’s layout encourages exploration, with each level offering a unique perspective on the bustling city above.

In essence, the São Bento subway station is more than just a transit hub; it is a celebration of architectural innovation and cultural heritage, reflecting Siza’s commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring.

At Bom Sucesso Resort, Álvaro Siza Vieira designed a set of 10 T3/4 villas (8 unbuilt, 1 unfinished) on Lot 223-227 and 229-233, Caminho do Lago, offering beautiful views over the golf to the Óbidos Lagoon.
However, like other projects in the area, they still await investors for completion.

These projects remain part of Siza’s unrealized vision for Bom Sucesso Resort.

T3 – T4, Lot 223 -227, 229-233 at Bom Sucesso Resort (8 not built, 1 unfinished)

Álvaro Siza Vieira designed 6 two floor villas at Bom Sucesso Resort, but none of them have been built. These projects remain part of his unrealized vision for the resort, waiting for future investment to bring them to life.

T3 and 4, Lot 234 -239 at Bom Sucesso Resort (Non Built)

Álvaro Siza Vieira greets visitors of Bom Sucesso at the entrance with his design of the security house. This small yet carefully crafted structure introduces his signature minimalist style, marking the beginning of the architectural experience within the resort.

Driving to the right, the commercial area begins, unfolding in a sequence of clean, functional spaces. Designed by Siza, this area includes the hotel reception (“Receção”), and the event venue “Nave Lagoa”. Some offices are built underground, blending seamlessly with the landscape.

Álvaro Siza Vieira welcomes visitors to Bom Sucesso Resort with his design of the security house at the entrance. This small but carefully designed building reflects his minimalist style and marks the beginning of the architectural journey within the resort.

Driving to the right, the commercial area begins, featuring a series of clean and functional spaces. Designed by Siza, this area includes the hotel reception (“Receção”) and the event venue “Nave Lagoa”. Some offices are built underground, blending smoothly with the surrounding landscape.

A unique detail is the metal signage, where thin 3D metal letters spelling “Receção” and “Mercado” are fixed to the walls. As the sun moves during the day, these letters cast changing shadows, creating a dynamic effect that adds depth and a sculptural touch to the space.

Lot 156 at Bom Sucesso Resort

The project for four houses on Avenida da Boavista, commissioned by a real estate investment company, is a striking example of modern residential architecture that harmonizes functionality with aesthetic appeal. Designed to create a seamless blend between indoor and outdoor spaces, the two pairs of three-storey symmetrical dwellings are strategically oriented to maximize natural light and privacy. The architectural concept focuses on creating a sense of openness in the longitudinal direction while maintaining a sense of enclosure transversely, offering both communal and private spaces.

The architect envisioned these homes as sanctuaries that cater to contemporary living needs, emphasizing fluidity and connectivity. The central placement of the stairs and lift serves as a spine, efficiently linking all levels and facilitating movement throughout the house. The lower floor is a hub of utility and leisure, featuring a garage, pantry, toilet, multipurpose rooms, laundry room, and swimming pool facilities, all designed to support a modern lifestyle.

On the ground floor, the living and dining rooms are designed to be expansive and inviting, encouraging social interaction and family gatherings. Large windows and sliding doors blur the boundaries between the interior and the landscaped exterior, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The first floor houses the bedrooms, each with its own balcony, offering a private retreat with views of the surrounding landscape.

The design philosophy emphasizes the integration of nature and architecture, with a landscaped and paved area to the south providing a welcoming entrance, while the north-facing patio with a swimming pool offers a serene escape. The use of natural materials and clean lines reflects a commitment to sustainability and timeless elegance, ensuring that the homes not only meet the demands of today but also adapt to future needs.

The architect’s vision was to create a living environment that is both functional and inspiring, where every element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall harmony of the space. This project stands as a testament to innovative design, where the balance between form and function is meticulously achieved, offering residents a unique and enriching living experience.

At Bom Sucesso Resort, Álvaro Siza Vieira designed 14 T4 villas along Rua da Pereiras (Lots 1-14), a project that reflects his signature minimalist and functional approach to architecture. These villas are characterized by clean geometric forms, white façades, and a seamless integration with the landscape.

Each villa follows a T4 layout, emphasizing natural light, open spaces, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. The design prioritizes privacy and harmony, with carefully planned façade openings and courtyards that enhance both light exposure and spatial flow.

While three villas remain unbuilt, this project remains a significant contribution to Bom Sucesso Resort, showcasing Siza’s mastery in creating timeless, elegant residential spaces.

In addition to these villas, Siza designed three other types of houses, of which only one has been completed, as well as the commercial area at the resort entrance.

Álvaro Siza Vieira design process for this Villa got well documented in a dedicated book called “Álvaro Siza design process | Quinta do Bom Sucesso housing project.”

T4, Lots 1-14 at Bom Sucesso Resort (3 not built)

Nave is a versatile event venue designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort. Located within the commercial area, it serves as a space for gatherings, exhibitions, and private events, offering a refined yet minimalist architectural setting.

The building follows Siza’s signature design principles, featuring clean lines, open spaces.

Lot 156 at Bom Sucesso Resort

The Nadir Afonso Foundation building, designed by renowned architect Álvaro Siza, is a masterful blend of art and architecture, reflecting the creative spirit of its namesake, Nadir Afonso. Situated on the floodplain of the Tâmega River, the building is elevated on a series of concrete slabs, a design choice that not only addresses the site’s environmental challenges but also creates a sense of lightness and elevation. This elevation is punctuated by passageways in geometric shapes—semi-circles, triangles, and squares—that echo the forms prevalent in Afonso’s artwork, creating a dialogue between the building and the artist’s oeuvre.

Siza’s vision for the building was to create a space that is both functional and contemplative, a sanctuary for art that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The approach to the building is marked by a bridge structure, guiding visitors along a contemplative path that sets the tone for the experience within. This thoughtful design choice emphasizes the journey as much as the destination, inviting reflection and engagement with the art housed inside.

The interior spaces are designed to accommodate the necessary museum functions while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The use of natural light is a key element, with strategically placed windows and openings that frame views of the river and landscape, enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior. The materials used—primarily concrete and glass—are chosen for their durability and ability to blend seamlessly with the environment, while also providing a neutral backdrop for the vibrant artworks on display.

Álvaro Siza’s design philosophy is evident in every aspect of the building, from its integration with the landscape to the subtle interplay of light and shadow. He once remarked, “Architecture is about transforming reality, not just replicating it,” a sentiment that is clearly reflected in the Nadir Afonso Foundation. The building stands as a testament to the power of architecture to elevate and inspire, creating a space that honors the legacy of Nadir Afonso while offering a unique and engaging experience for visitors.

The Santo Tirso Fire Station, nestled in the historic Quinta de Geão, is a striking example of modern architectural design that harmonizes functionality with aesthetic appeal. Designed to serve the local fire department, the building complex includes a main building, an observation tower, and an annex, each serving distinct purposes while maintaining a cohesive visual identity.

The architect envisioned a structure that not only meets the operational needs of the firefighters but also stands as a symbol of community pride and resilience. The main building, clad in handmade ceramic brick, exudes warmth and texture, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This choice of material pays homage to traditional craftsmanship, while the exposed white concrete of the apparatus bay and observation tower introduces a contemporary contrast, emphasizing strength and durability.

At the entrance, the seamless integration of these materials reflects the architect’s commitment to blending tradition with modernity. The observation tower, a prominent feature, serves as both a functional element for monitoring and a visual landmark, symbolizing vigilance and readiness.

Inside, the design prioritizes efficiency and comfort, with spaces dedicated to training, workshops, and community activities. The drill yard and honor courtyard are thoughtfully positioned to facilitate both practical exercises and ceremonial events, reinforcing the building’s dual role as a hub of activity and a place of reflection.

The architect’s vision was to create a building that not only supports the operational needs of the “reds,” as the Volunteer Firefighters of Santo Tirso are affectionately known, but also enhances the surrounding landscape. The fire station stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to safety and service, embodying a design philosophy that values both form and function.

Nestled on a sprawling 21,000 m² plot in Rodízio, Colares, the Alemão family’s second home is a masterful blend of architecture and nature, designed by the renowned Álvaro Siza. Perched on a steep slope with a north-northwest orientation, the house offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking the pristine beaches of Praia das Maçãs and Praia Grande. Siza’s design philosophy is evident in the way the house harmonizes with the landscape, respecting the natural topography by developing across four distinct levels.

The architectural concept revolves around creating a series of independent yet interconnected spaces. The house features five rooms, each with its own bathroom, a common room, a kitchen, and an office. These spaces are organized as separate entities, forming trapezoidal courtyards that invite natural light and create intimate outdoor areas. An interior corridor seamlessly connects these spaces, allowing for fluid movement throughout the home.

Originally intended to be clad in stone or a combination of stone and plaster, the house’s exterior was ultimately covered in wood at the client’s request, marking a unique departure in Siza’s work. This choice of material not only complements the natural surroundings but also adds warmth and texture to the building’s façade.

Siza’s vision was to create a structure that is both functional and poetic, where the architecture serves as a dialogue between the built environment and the natural world. The house’s orientation and design maximize the stunning sea views, while the use of courtyards and varying levels ensures a dynamic spatial experience. This home stands as a testament to Siza’s ability to blend modernist principles with a deep sensitivity to the landscape, creating a serene retreat that is both innovative and timeless.