We’re excited to share a true gem for fans of Portuguese architecture: the RTP series Magazine de Arquitectura e Decoração, originally recorded in 1992 and re-aired between 2016 and 2017, is now available for free streaming on RTP Play.

Presented by the late architect Manuel Graça Dias, the series explores the life, ideas, and projects of some of the most notable names in contemporary Portuguese architecture — including many of the architects who contributed to the vision of Bom Sucesso Resort.

Architects Featured in the Series Who Shaped Bom Sucess

Several episodes focus on architects who designed some of the most iconic houses at Bom Sucesso:

• Álvaro Siza Vieira – [Episode 21]
• Eduardo Souto de Moura – [Episode 18]
• João Luís Carrilho da Graça – [Episode 19]
• Gonçalo Byrne – [Episode 6]
• Alcino Soutinho – [Episode 15]

These architects played a central role in the original master plan and villa designs for Bom Sucesso — many of which are now occupied, some still unbuilt, and others slowly returning to life thanks to renewed interest in the resort’s bold architectural legacy.

A Historic Archive Worth Watching

Each episode is about 25 minutes long, offering rare footage, insightful interviews, and in many cases, early documentation of buildings that are now part of Portugal’s architectural heritage.

This series was originally produced by Zebra Produções, directed by Edgar Feldman and Rui Simões, with authorship by Isabel Colaço, José Perdigão, and Manuel Graça Dias. It’s not only a valuable record of late 20th-century architectural thinking in Portugal, but also a reminder of the intellectual and artistic energy that shaped Bom Sucesso.

Watch the full series (in Portuguese) on RTP Play here: Magazine de Arquitectura e Decoração – RTP

We’re thrilled to have gained access to the archive of Atelier dos Remédios, the studio of Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos, whose work has shaped much of Bom Sucesso Resort’s built identity—and whose unbuilt designs continue to spark the imagination.Thanks to their generosity, we now have access to sketches, early plans, and photographs by the renowned photographer Fernando Guerra | FG+SG, capturing these homes before residents moved in. These rare materials enrich our understanding of the resort’s early ambition, and they shed light on many projects that were never realized.

Naming the Alphabet

The architects shared the background about the origins of their naming:

“Initially, we developed the four house types simultaneously. To differentiate them internally, we began referring to them by letters based on their shapes—hence, the L, I, X, and O Houses.

L and I were the more functional homes; X and O were spatially richer—the X House focusing on interconnected open space, and the O House seeking a more poetic atmosphere. Later, in Phase 2, we returned to the alphabet with the K House for plots 356–360.”

Looking at their contribution across all phases, it becomes clear that Atelier dos Remédios designed one of the most diverse and ambitious collections of houses at Bom Sucesso. Here’s a brief overview of their work.

Phase 1 of Bom Sucesso Resort

10 Casa O at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

6 Casa L at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

6 Casa X at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

6 Casa I at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

18 White Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

18 Red Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

Phase 2 of Bom Sucesso Resort

8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

The set of eight houses, made up of two different typologies, T3 and T4, borders the main street to the south and the golf green to the north. This led to the placement of each house away from the access road, as well as a common language for all the facades of the set that face the golf course.
The houses are the result of the combination of geometric shapes that define a porch or an exterior entrance patio and the interior distribution gallery.

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

House Type 1 of 8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Ben PortugalModern.com

House Type 2 of 8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Laurent Gravier PortugalModern.com

House Type 3 of 8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Laurent Gravier PortugalModern.com

5 Casa K/360 at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos

© Ben PortugalModern.com

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort

Alongside this body of work, the studio also designed several unbuilt houses for Phases 3 and 4, which had been planned in 2008 as part of a major resort expansion.

ZigZag Row House unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

Casa R unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

Casa Bac unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort

© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos

Fun Fact: A Final Puzzle Solved

One final piece of the Bom Sucesso Architecture Puzzle: the architect of the former Bom Sucesso Sales Office was long unknown to us. Madalena Cardoso de Menezes clarified that the project was designed by her brother, Gonçalo Cardoso de Menezes—who also contributed a set of villas and townhouses. It is the first Building of the Bom Sucesso Resort.

© Ben PortugalModern.com

During the early construction phase of the first houses at Bom Sucesso Resort, the interior construction materials display center was located in a side building on the construction site.

It was a space where architects and new owners could choose interior finishes — such as bathroom tiles, flooring, and other materials. We’ve recently received some images of this showroom, showing the options available at the time.

Most houses share similar interiors, including the characteristic handmade tiles — especially in the bathrooms, where colorful options like white, yellow, red, and others were offered.

See more Images of the Interior Construction Materials Show room below.

Door Handles and Taps at Bom Sucesso Designed by Souto de Moura and Álvaro Siza Vieira

The door handles and some bathroom fittings were supplied by CBC – Carvalho, Batista & C.ª Lda, based in Porto. Many of these pieces were designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura or Álvaro Siza Vieira.

Several houses feature taps designed by Souto de Moura, customized with Bom Sucesso branding — a unique detail that blends architectural design with the resort’s identity.

CBC has a fantastic showroom in Porto that is well worth a visit. On the upper floor, you’ll also find a selection of furniture pieces designed by Portuguese architects.

Website: carvalhobatista.pt

Address: here

Images of Bom Successo Interior Construction Materials Show Room

All images copyrights are by Josep Llinás.

We’ve been in touch with many of the architects who helped design Bom Sucesso, and I’m thrilled to share that they’ve been incredibly supportive — sending drawings, photographs, and stories for PortugalModern.com. Many more insights are on the way!

It’s inspiring to see how much they care and how excited they are that the original vision for the resort is being revived — step by step — by the residents and the community.

Today, I want to immediately share something truly special.

While exchanging messages with Josep Llinás — the only Spanish architect involved in the project, and a recipient of Spain’s highest architectural honor, the Gold Medal for Architecture — he sent me a rare set of images: photos of the original 3D model of Bom Sucesso Resort, which was once displayed in the sales office.

First owners of Bom Sucesso recall that there were actually two Models: one was permanently installed at the resort’s sales office, and another was a traveling model. It was exhibited internationally — seen in Amsterdam, and also presented in London and Ireland — as part of the original promotion of the resort.

Many people told me this model was lost when the resort went bankrupt. But now, thanks to these images, it has resurfaced — and for me, it’s absolutely breathtaking.

The model shows the very first version of the master plan, and you’ll notice some differences from what was eventually built. For example, a large building was originally placed on the opposite side of the commercial zone. Other subtle variations in the villas appear here and there. I assume the red dots may mark houses that had already been sold at that time.

I believe this is an incredible piece of the resort’s history — and a powerful reminder of the bold architectural vision that brought Bom Sucesso to life.

Enjoy the images — and let’s keep building on this shared legacy.

A big thank-you to Josep Llinás. More original plans will be published here soon!

All images copyrights are by Josep Llinás.

Portugal Modern is proud to share a look into an interesting residential projects at Bom Sucesso Resort. Architect Nuno Brandão Costa has generously granted us access to early photographs, architectural drawings, and documentation of the houses before they were inhabited — offering a rare glimpse into the clarity and intention of the original design.

Located along Rua da Lagoa in Bom Sucesso, Óbidos, this project consists of seven T4 villas designed 2005. Of the seven, four were completed and built; two remain unbuilt, giving the site a quiet, unfinished rhythm that echoes the broader experimental nature of the resort.

From the outside, the houses appear as floating, horizontal slabs — green roof gardens that seem to hover above the land. Beneath these planted stone roofs lie the living and functional spaces, carefully separated yet architecturally unified. The patios in front of the bedrooms open onto the roof gardens, creating a seamless link between interior and landscape.

Inside, each house is organized around a simple, open floor plan. Living rooms stretch toward views of the golf course and the nearby pond, angled to catch light and sightlines. A continuous window band, precisely 1.60 meters high, frames the landscape throughout the interior, ensuring that the outside is never far from view.

At the entrance, a staircase leads directly to the rooftop — inviting residents to ascend and experience the full breadth of the valley. As the architect puts it, these are “seven squared bowls to garden,” designed with just enough thickness to shelter life within.

This project is a quiet but powerful example of Portuguese contemporary architecture — a blend of rigor, restraint, and spatial generosity that reflects Nuno Brandão Costa’s signature approach. We are honored to feature it on Portugal Modern and look forward to sharing more images and plans from the archive soon.

Copyrights of all Images by Arménio Teixeira and Nuno Brandão Costa

Interview with Nuno Brandão Costa – Get to Know His Work and Vision

Thanks to the generosity of Manuel Aires Mateus, PortugalModern.com is proud to present access to the architect’s archive for his work at Bom Sucesso Resort. This includes original architectural drawings, 3D model images, and photographs by Francisco Caseiro capturing the houses before they were inhabited. This rare material offers a privileged glimpse into the unfiltered vision behind one of Portugal’s most refined and conceptually driven contributions to contemporary housing.

© Image by Aires Mateus

Stereotomic Silence: Aires Mateus at Bom Sucesso Resort

Nestled near the medieval town of Óbidos, Bom Sucesso Resort is a bold experiment in modern living, featuring over 600 villas designed by 23 of Portugal’s most celebrated architects. Amid this diverse architectural tapestry, the work of Aires Mateus stands out for its sculptural restraint, spatial clarity, and philosophical depth.

Stereotomy in Architecture: Design by Erasure

The work of Aires Mateus is deeply rooted in stereotomy—a design technique where mass is carved, hollowed, or cleared to define space. Unlike additive methods, stereotomy creates form through subtraction. In the hands of Aires Mateus, this approach becomes poetic: spaces are revealed by what is removed, and voids become as expressive as solids.

Their architecture is often described as “design by erasure,” where excavated masses expose silence, light, and proportion. The result is a minimalist language that speaks volumes — balancing presence and absence, light and shadow, material and void.

This philosophy is clearly manifested in their Bom Sucesso work.

The White Blocks of Bom Sucesso

The 12 villas (T3–T4) and 7 row houses (T2–T3) by Manuel and Francisco Aires Mateus are locally referred to as “The White Blocks” — and for good reason. These bright, cubic volumes are visually striking, yet quietly integrated into the landscape. Their clarity is not only formal but functional.

• The villas are arranged along an east–west axis, with the houses facing east and the swimming pools placed to the west. This orientation ensures ample sun exposure and maximizes the garden space between neighboring units, enhancing privacy and spatial fluidity.
• Their thick, white structural walls recall the solid vernacular architecture of Portugal’s past, lending the homes a sense of permanence and rootedness.
• The row houses on Rua do Sol Poente echo this language in a more compact configuration. A shared garden and pool, landscaped roofs, and enclosed courtyards reinforce a strong connection to the outdoors while maintaining privacy.

As Manuel Aires Mateus put it:

“The houses are located to the east and the swimming pools to the west, freeing up as much space as possible for the garden between neighboring houses. This disposition affords lighting and a spatial perception related, as I remember, to the thick, solid house walls of days gone by.”

Architecture in Harmony with Nature

The Aires Mateus houses at Bom Sucesso are not simply objects in the landscape — they are part of the landscape. Their orientation, minimal openings, internal patios, and use of light invite a meditative experience of space. This is not architecture for display, but for living quietly, thoughtfully, and with deep spatial awareness.

The project includes:

• Lot 146–176: 12 villas (T3–T4), of which 8 remain unbuilt and 1 is unfinished
• Lot 143: 7 row houses (T2–T3), completed and in use

Each house is a study in balance: openness and enclosure, light and shade, intimacy and openness. Together, they form a subtle but powerful architectural ensemble that reflects the intellectual rigor and poetic minimalism for which Aires Mateus is internationally recognized.

A Living Archive Now Online

Thanks to the generosity of Aires Mateus and the photography of Francisco Caseiro, we are now able to showcase this extraordinary project in detail — with access to original 3D models, floor plans, and pre-occupation images that reveal the clarity of the original design intent.

You can explore the full gallery and drawings on the PortugalModern.com project page:

Visit the Aires Mateus Bom Sucesso Archive → here

© Images by Francisco Caseiro, Aires Mateus

© Images by Aires Mateus

Bom Sucesso is many things — a resort, a village, an architectural manifesto.

And within it, the work of Aires Mateus represents a moment of silent clarity —where architecture becomes the art of carving space,and the void becomes the voice.

Nestled just 20 minutes from Porto, this remarkable property in Santo Tirso is not just a home — it’s a conversation between two generations of the Porto School of Architecture.

The main house was designed in the 1970s by Noé Diniz, one of the unsung heroes of modern Portuguese architecture. A mentor to Eduardo Souto de Moura, whom he called his “first companion,” Dinis worked closely with Álvaro Siza Vieira during a formative period for both architects. This villa reflects that legacy — blending international modernism with traditional Portuguese elements like warm wooden ceilings, natural stone fireplaces, and strong indoor-outdoor connections.

Decades later, the architectural narrative of the property evolved with the addition of a multipurpose pavilion designed by Maria Luísa Penha Souto de Moura, Eduardo’s wife and a respected architect in her own right. Her intervention introduced a more contemporary language: expansive glazing, bold red-toned concrete, and clean geometric lines — creating a powerful architectural dialogue across time.

A Home With Soul and Substance

Set on a generous 2,380 m² plot, the property includes:

• 4+1 bedrooms, spread over 255 m² of private gross area
• A saltwater swimming pool
• A private tennis court
• A natural lake with lotus flowers
• An independent 68 m² pavilion, by Luísa Penha ideal for guests or creative work
• Mature landscaping with fruit trees and space for gardening or entertaining
  

Inside, the home flows effortlessly from space to space, thanks to renovations by the Porto-based architecture studio Bastir, who carefully preserved the building’s character while improving functionality and comfort.

Though the home is in move-in condition, it offers room for restoration or customization — an invitation for new owners to continue the architectural story.

Context: Santo Tirso, a Hidden Cultural Gem

Santo Tirso has become an unlikely hub of contemporary architecture. It is home to the International Museum of Contemporary Sculpture, and just minutes away, you’ll find projects by Álvaro Siza Vieira, Eduardo Souto de Moura, and other architectural landmarks such as:

• Casa António Carlos Siza
• Museum of International Contemporary Sculpture
• Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários de Santo Tirso
  

With its architectural pedigree, tranquil surroundings, and proximity to Porto, this property stands out as a rare opportunity — a true piece of living history designed by hands that shaped modern Portuguese architecture.

Nuno Graça Moura is a leading Portuguese architect from Porto known for his refined modernist approach and strong sensitivity to place and form. An influential figure in contemporary Portuguese architecture, his work blends rigorous design with a deep understanding of landscape and context.

With 20 projects at Bom Sucesso Resort, Nuno Graça Moura is the architect with the most constructions within the Design Resort. His portfolio includes a wide range of building types: from villas and row houses to key public and infrastructure buildings that define the character of the resort.

At PortugalModern.com, we are honored to have received exclusive access to the architect’s archive related to Bom Sucesso Resort. This includes almost 200 images — including photographs, 3D models, floor plans, and rare documentation of houses before they were occupied — offering a unique glimpse into the design vision behind the built environment.

Among the realized projects are:

• Five different villa types
  
• Three types of row houses, including the now-iconic Bar Code houses — for which he received design awards from Germany and Spain
• Public and service buildings such as the Pool Bar, Golf Clubhouse, Tennis Club, and the Golf Maintenance Facility
  

One of the more curious parts of his legacy is the Dog Hotel — an facility which never got into operations, originally imagined as a dedicated space where residents could leave their dogs while staying at Bom Sucesso. Although the concept never became operational, it reflects the playful and ambitious spirit of the resort’s early planning.

In addition to built work, we gained access to unreleased material from Phase 3 of the resort, which was never realized. This includes designs for three villas and one row house, as well as the urban plan for the area, which Nuno Graça Moura also developed. Phase 3, located west of the existing resort area, is currently on the market for €5,5 million, alongside a more recent building proposal (see here).

On the interior side, his attention to detail extended to elements such as custom marble sinks seen in the Bar Code houses and a unique lighting design for the Club Bar (which is no longer installed).

We are deeply grateful to Nuno Graça Moura and his team for their trust in sharing this historical archive with us. It is a privilege to help preserve and celebrate the architectural legacy of Bom Sucesso Resort.

Nuno Graça Moura’s Phase 1 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort:

2 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

4 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

8 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

8 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

13 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Nuno Graça Moura’s Row Houses at Phase 1 of Bom Sucesso:

Bar Code 1 – 30 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Bar Code 2 – 12 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

24 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Infrastructure and Public Buildings:

Pool Bar at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Tennis Club at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Golf Clubhouse at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Dog Hotel, unbuilt. (click here)

Nuno Graça Moura’s Unbuilt Projects for Phase 3 and 4:

Urban Plan of Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

Draft of Urban Plan of Not Realized Phase 4 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

4 Unbuilt Villas of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort

5 Unbuilt Villas of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

11 Unbuilt Row Houses of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)

All Images in this Post by Nuno Graça Moura, copy rights reserved!

You may have recently discovered Bom Sucesso Resort as the unique modern design project that it is. The resort offers a rare opportunity to build or complete villas designed by some of the most renowned architects in Portugal — including Álvaro Siza Vieira, Eduardo Souto de Moura, João Luís Carrilho da Graça, Aires Mateus, Alcino Soutinho and internationally by David Chipperfield from the UK.

With many unbuilt or partially built plots still available, Bom Sucesso presents a chance to create your own exceptional property within this architectural masterpiece. However, building within a resort of this nature — with strict design standards, a special legal framework, and an active condominium administration — requires careful planning.

Here are a few important things you need to consider before starting to build at Bom Sucesso.

1. Ownership Structure

• All properties are part of a Tourist Village with plural (multi-unit) ownership, legally governed by the Title Deed and Administration Regulation.
• You are buying exclusive ownership of your unit but are strictly bound by the Condominium and Resort-wide regulations.
• See Regulations here

2. Architectural Control & Design Approval

Strict architectural standards apply:

• No independent exterior modifications allowed without prior written consent.
• All works (including interior renovations that affect structure or visible aesthetics) require:
  • Administration approval.
  • Architect’s approval (original architect or approved designer).

These restrictions protect the unified architectural image of Bom Sucesso as a design resort. Which is good, that no one can built a three level pink house in front of you 🙂

Specific Notes for New Builds:

• On each plot, the house design is defined by the architect and needs to be approved by the specific architect assigned to that plot.
• If the original architect has passed away, their legal successors (e.g., children) may act on their behalf. For example, for Alcino Soutinho, his daughter (who is also an architect) handles approvals.
• The City of Óbidos does not hold full house design plans. They only hold general plot allocation approvals. This allows for some flexibility if approved by the architect.
• Architects expect to be paid for their design work. Some real estate agents advertise the plots as “approved projects” — this is not correct. The architect will ask for payment for the design project. They were not paid originally by the resort’s first developer (who went bankrupt).
• Some architects handle the process themselves, others work with external partners. Costs reported range between €10,000 and €80,000, depending on the architect.

3. Hidden Cost of €5,000 per Plot

• Due to the bankruptcy of the original promoter, buyers of unfinished plots must pay €5,000 per plot to the bankruptcy creditors.

4. Construction Schedule Restrictions (Summer Ban)

• No works allowed during June, July, August, and September, except for urgent repairs that cannot be postponed.
• In practice, the condominium tends to enforce this rule more strictly between July 15 and September 15. Always double-check with the administration.
• Outside these months, works must:
  • Respect quiet hours (no disturbing noise before 7:00 or after 23:00).
  • Avoid disturbing resort operations or guests.

5. Works Inside Your Unit (Interior Changes)

Even interior works may require approval if:

• They change layouts, plumbing, facades, or structural elements.
• They affect shared infrastructure.

Minor interior works (pure decoration or furniture) generally do not require formal approval, but it is recommended to inform the administration.

6. Permits & Legal Authorizations

You may need:

• Municipal permits for structural works.
• Internal administration approval.
• Architectural review.

Important:

Even with a municipal building permit, you must comply with resort regulations.

7. Who Controls the Process?

• Administration (BS Villas) – usually the tourism operator or its designated manager is your main contact.
• Architectural Committee (or architect of record) – must approve designs.
• Owners’ General Assembly – may need to approve major alterations.

8. Penalties for Unauthorized Works

Starting works without proper authorization may lead to:

• Fines.
• Legal actions.
• Forced removal or restoration at the owner’s expense.

Before You Buy a Plot at Bom Sucesso — 3 Important Steps:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Regulations

Carefully review the Bom Sucesso condominium rules (here) as well as the specific regulations for Touristic Villas (Moradias Turísticas) under the national guidelines established by Turismo de Portugal. Always request the latest versions directly from the condominium office. And a lawyer consultancy for explanation is recommended.

2. Review the Original House Plan

Check the original architectural plans for the plot. Many of these are available on Portugal Modern (here) and can give you valuable insight into the intended design and constraints.

3. Contact the Architect Early

Before purchasing, reach out to the architect responsible for the plot. Make sure they are available and open to any adjustments or design changes you may have in mind.

If you need a contact to an architect, I’m happy to help you.

By following these steps, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what’s possible and avoid surprises later in the process.

Portugal Modern is pleased to announce the addition of exclusive 3D renderings of Carlos Prata’s remarkable six-villa project at Bom Sucesso Resort. Of the six planned houses, two have already been built as part of the resort’s secound development phase.

Positioned on an elevated site, these villas offer outstanding panoramic views over the Óbidos Lagoon, the city of Caldas da Rainha, and the iconic Óbidos Castle. Their orientation and placement take full advantage of the natural topography, enhancing the architectural experience with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Carlos Prata is a distinguished Portuguese architect known for his meticulous urban planning and refined architectural language. A graduate of the Escola Superior de Belas-Artes do Porto, he later founded his own studio and has delivered acclaimed works such as the Douro Breakwaters, the CUF Institute, and the Hotel and Tourism School of Porto. In addition to his built work, Prata has played a significant role in architectural education through his professorship at the University of Porto.

We hope to see the remaining villas brought to life in the near future, completing what promises to be one of Bom Sucesso’s most elegant and carefully composed ensembles.

Explore the project and all renderings here: 6 Villas by Carlos Prata at Bom Sucesso Resort

A big thank you to Carlos Prata and Team for sharing the 3D renderings with Portugal Modern.

If you’ve ever wanted to step inside an Álvaro Siza Vieira project — not just admire the architecture from outside — this is your moment. Now on the market, the Miranda dos Santos House (originally known as the Ferreira da Costa House) offers a truly unique opportunity to experience one of Portugal’s most iconic modern villas in its complete and original form.

What makes this listing extraordinary isn’t just the pedigree of its architect. It’s the fact that the entire interior — furniture, decoration, spatial rhythm — was designed by Siza himself. It’s a true time capsule from one of the early and most personal periods of his career.

An Early Masterpiece on an Urban Plot

Located in Azenha de Cima, Matosinhos, this house was first designed in 1965, when Siza was just 32 years old. Set on a tight urban corner plot, it reflects his masterful ability to work within spatial constraints, creating a private family sanctuary that remains deeply connected to its surrounding neighborhood.

A defining feature is the lowered patio, which acts as a quiet courtyard — visually discreet from the street but spatially central to the experience of the house. This element demonstrates Siza’s belief that architecture should bridge the private and public, enhancing everyday life while contributing to the city’s fabric.

Architecture + Furniture = A Complete Siza Work

In the early 1990s, the new owners — the Miranda dos Santos family — commissioned Siza to renovate and expand the house. Over a period of five years, he personally added a garage extension, new windows, and — most importantly — a full set of custom-designed furniture and fixtures, turning the interior into a seamless architectural composition.

From built-in cabinetry to lighting details and material finishes, every element contributes to a total environment where nothing feels accidental. The house is a rare case where you can walk through an Álvaro Siza building and feel his design hand in every single detail.

Light, Shadow, Silence

One of Siza’s most distinctive skills is his manipulation of light and shadow to give space texture and rhythm. In this home, natural light filters through precisely placed openings, shifting with the time of day and animating the raw materials — concrete, wood, stone — with quiet drama.

This is not just a house to admire. It’s a house to feel. A place where architecture becomes atmosphere, and where daily routines unfold in harmony with light, scale, and form.

Why This Sale Matters

Very few private houses by Álvaro Siza Vieira ever come to market — especially one as complete, intimate, and untouched as this. The chance to see inside is rare. The chance to own it, rarer still.

For anyone who values architectural heritage, this is more than a villa — it’s a piece of living history. A modernist icon with the soul of its architect still imprinted on every surface.

Exterior

Interior

All Images from Million Group

Video Tour

Portugal is home to some of the world’s most respected architects — and now, a few of their rarest homes are on the market. This curated selection features villas by Álvaro Siza Vieira, Eduardo Souto de Moura, Oscar Niemeyer, Alcino Soutinho, and Hélder Ventura & Helena Máximo — each with a distinct voice and vision. These homes are more than luxury real estate. They are pieces of design history.

1. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Early Masterpiece – Matosinhos (Porto)

T5+, 1.599.000 €

Image by Ben (above) and Million Group (below)

This villa is one of Álvaro Siza Vieira’s earliest residential projects — designed when he was just 32 — and later renovated by the architect himself. Built for a writer, the house blends intimacy with urban elegance. It sits quietly on a corner plot in Matosinhos, using clever design gestures like a sunken patio and minimal window openings to balance privacy and light.

What makes this house truly special is its interior, carefully crafted by Siza with custom-designed furniture and fittings. It reflects his philosophy of designing not just buildings, but complete environments. Renovated over five years in the 1990s, the home remains one of the most personal expressions of Siza’s architectural thinking.

Villa listed at Portugal Modern here.

2. Álvaro Siza Vieira Villa on Avenida da Boavista – Porto

T5, 418 m² + 298 m² outdoor area, 2.750.000 €

Image by Ben

Located on Porto’s most prestigious avenue, this signature residence by Pritzker Prize–winner Álvaro Siza Vieira is a rare opportunity to own a liveable work of architecture. One of a set of four symmetrical houses, the project reflects Siza’s refined modernist approach: clean lines, sculpted light, and seamless transitions between interior and exterior.

Spread over three levels, the home features generous open-plan living spaces, a private garden with pool and rooftop terrace, and high-end materials like Estremoz marble and solid wood. A central elevator connects all floors, while thoughtful orientation and glazing maximize light and privacy.

This villa embodies Siza’s vision of timeless architecture — understated, elegant, and perfectly integrated with its urban context.

 Listed at Portugal Modern here.

3. Alcino Soutinho’s Casa Pinto de Sousa – Ofir (Esposende)

T4, 2.000 m² land, 1.500.000 €

Designed by Alcino Soutinho — one of Portugal’s great postmodern architects — this villa was built for a close friend, a professional rugby player. It sits within a pine forest near the coast of Ofir, completely integrated into nature. The architecture is rich in references: Roman impluviums, Baroque geometry, and even a north façade that evokes an Arabic aqueduct.

But this isn’t just a house full of ideas. It’s a deeply livable home with bright spaces, a double-height living core, and careful transitions between public and private areas. The layering of spaces across split levels gives the villa a quiet complexity — the kind that reveals itself over time. A true hidden classic of Portuguese architecture, rarely on the market.

4. Oscar Niemeyer’s Only House in Portugal mainland – Melgaço

T2+, 10.000 m² land, 750.000 €

This house is one-of-a-kind: the only known residence in Portugal designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the Brazilian master of modernist architecture and Pritzker Prize winner. Commissioned in the 1950s by a Portuguese emigrant who became Niemeyer’s friend in Rio de Janeiro, the home is full of artistic details — from curved walls to a mural by Nuno San-Payo, and hand-painted Viana tiles.It has not been lived in since the late 1990s and needs serious renovation, but the essence is there: sweeping views, bold geometry, and an approved rural tourism recovery project. For lovers of modernist heritage, this is a chance to restore and own a true architectural sculpture by one of the 20th century’s most iconic designers. See video blow.

5. Souto de Moura’s Villa at Ponte de Lima Golf Resort

T4, 1.100 m² plot, 990.000 €

Image from fontedamoura.com

This bright and refined villa by Eduardo Souto de Moura, Portugal’s second Pritzker laureate, is a prime example of his quiet but powerful architectural language. Located inside the Ponte de Lima Golf Resort, it’s a home of clean lines, smart proportions, and calm elegance. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to landscaped gardens and a private pool with views of the golf course.

Inside, the space is organized with clarity and precision — a signature of Souto de Moura’s work. Every material is carefully chosen, from the self-leveling floor system to the Siemens kitchen appliances. It’s a livable home for today, but with the timeless quality of one of Europe’s great architects.

6. Eduardo Souto de Moura’s Urban Oasis in Porto – Antas

T4, 355 m² land, 1.600.000 €

In the heart of Porto’s Antas neighborhood, just steps from Praça Velasquez, this extraordinary villa is part of an exclusive gated condominium designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto de Moura. Completed in 2021, the project merges the renovation of romantic 19th-century mansions with new contemporary architecture, forming a unique urban village set within 15,500 m² of landscaped grounds.

The V4 villa spans two floors and offers elegant interiors with Botticino marble, afizélia wood flooring, and full underfloor climate control. Highlights include two suites, a private garden, and a garage for three cars. Sustainable technologies like geothermal systems, solar panels, and green roofs reflect the project’s forward-looking vision.

The condominium offers resort-style amenities: a heated indoor pool with natural light, Turkish bath, romantic grotto and lake, mature gardens, and a 500m walking path. This is a rare opportunity to live in a masterfully designed retreat that blends urban sophistication with peace and privacy — a landmark project in the legacy of Souto de Moura.

7. Contemporary Casa by Manuel Aires Mateus in Ajuda/Lisbon

T3, 228 m² land, 1.800.000 €

Image Screenshot from KW Website

This striking minimalist villa in Lisbon’s Ajuda district is a rare residential work by Manuel Aires Mateus, one of Portugal’s most renowned architects. Completed in 2019, the house spans four levels and showcases Aires Mateus’ signature language: sculpted volumes, pure geometry, and a deep sensitivity to light and space.
Built on a sloping plot with dual street access, the design maximizes privacy while maintaining openness through full-height glazing and an airy open-plan layout. High-end materials — from natural stone to custom aluminum framing — complete this urban sanctuary. A true architectural statement just minutes from the Tagus River.

8. Contemporary Villa by Aires Mateus in Estoril

T4, 1.080 m² land, 4.485.000 €

This striking villa in Estoril is a rare example of contemporary residential architecture by Aires Mateus, one of Portugal’s most internationally recognized architects. Designed with minimalist precision and sculptural clarity, the house features clean volumes, generous natural light, and a refined dialogue between indoor and outdoor living.

Set on a spacious plot in a premium location, the home includes four suites, an open-plan living area, a 21-meter heated pool, a private rooftop terrace with sea views, and high-end finishes throughout. The layout across two floors, plus a panoramic rooftop, allows for both family living and elegant entertaining — a modern architectural statement in one of the Lisbon coast’s most desirable neighborhoods.

9. Elegant Villa by Jean Pierre Porcher in Braga’s Prestigious Dona Antónia Neighborhood

T4, 1.380 m² land, 1.500.000 €

Image by Ben

Set within the exclusive Dona Antónia residential estate on the slopes of Monte Frio, this stunning contemporary villa is a refined work by French-Portuguese architect Jean Pierre Porcher, with interiors reimagined by Central Arquitectos. The project blends natural topography, privacy, and architectural clarity into one of Braga’s most sought-after addresses.

Part of a carefully designed masterplan of 46 homes, the villa respects the surrounding landscape while offering a modern L-shaped layout that opens the house to its private garden and mountain views. Spread over two levels, it includes four luxurious suites, high-end finishes, and generous open-plan living spaces bathed in natural light.
Materials such as natural stone, solid wood, black steel, and corten highlight the attention to detail. The kitchen is fully equipped with Gaggenau appliances, and the living room opens to the outdoors through large-format glazing. Several suites offer direct garden access, and the master bedroom includes a bespoke walk-in closet, natural silk finishes, and a bathroom clad in marble.

This is a house of both subtle elegance and rich materiality, perfect for those seeking a private yet design-forward home near the heart of Braga.

Dona Antónia Neighborhood listed at Portugal Modern here.

10. Award-Winning Villa by Hélder Ventura & Helena Máximo – Ovar

T4, 784 m² land, 550.000 €

Winner of the “Januário Godinho” Award from the City of Ovar, this villa by Hélder Ventura and Helena Máximo brings a unique voice to contemporary Portuguese architecture. The home is organized over three split levels, creating a smooth connection between rooms while maintaining distinct zones.

Features include a sunken living room with a fireplace, garden views from the dining room, and a private pool lounge perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The master suite on the top floor opens to a terrace with a full view of the property. It’s a well-balanced home with excellent natural light, high-quality finishes, and easy access to the beach, city, and rail — ideal for those who value both design and lifestyle.

Villa listed at Portugal Modern here.

11. Riverside Stone Villa by Carlos Loureiro, Foz do Sousa (Gondomar)

T4, 800 m² land, River frontage 2.200.000 Euro

A rare historic residence built by the Count of Vizela and designed by esteemed modernist architect José Carlos Loureiro, known for Porto’s Pavilhão Rosa‑Mota (formerly Pavilhão dos Desportos) and numerous public works  .

Why this Villa Stands Out

Full‑stone construction with Chelo River frontage on a generous 800 m² plot

Layout spans two levels:

• Ground floor: expansive dining/living area (83 m²), open kitchen with pantry, 2 bedrooms + full bath
• Upper floor: cozy living room + 2 en‑suite bedrooms
• A masterwork of modernist heritage, combining stone craftsmanship with Loureiro’s clean-lined aesthetic

A one-of-a-kind offering: a riverside stone villa with architectural significance at its core.

12. Oceanview Villa by Mário Martins – Palmares Golf, Lagos

T4, 5,697 m² plot, 2.400.000 Euro

Set within the prestigious Palmares Ocean Living & Golf resort in Lagos, this new villa project is the vision of Mário Martins, one of the Algarve’s most celebrated architects. Known for his ability to merge contemporary form with the region’s natural landscapes, Martins has received multiple national awards for architecture that respects both tradition and place.

This villa-to-be will offer 415 m² of private living space across two levels, with a 213 m² basement for parking and technical areas. The expansive 177 m² of covered terraces frame panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Palmares golf course, and the Alvor Estuary, creating a seamless flow between indoor comfort and outdoor living.

The house is part of a larger architectural vision for the Palmares resort, where low-density design and sustainability are key principles. Sand dunes, cliffs, and sea views dominate the landscape — and the villa is positioned to capture it all, from sunrise over the estuary to sunset over the ocean.

This is a rare opportunity to build a bespoke modern villa in one of Portugal’s most iconic coastal settings, guided by a master of contemporary Algarve architecture.

Image by Lena

13. Contemporary Villas at Condomínio do Assento – Braga, Architect Unknown

T4 , 600 m² plot, 747.500 Euro

These new single-story villas in Braga’s Condomínio do Assento are a standout example of contemporary Portuguese residential architecture. While the architect remains unidentified, the design reflects clear postmodern principles: clean horizontal lines, volumetric clarity, and a thoughtful dialogue between form, function, and landscape.

Each home follows an L-shaped plan that opens to a private garden and pool, balancing transparency and enclosure through glass, concrete, and steel. Materials and finishes are consistent across the development, creating a rare sense of visual harmony at the community scale.

An elegant modern enclave, quietly redefining suburban living.

14. Elegant Villa by Fernando Jorge in Quinta das Portas – Amares

T3+1, 660 m² plot, 600.000 €

Set within the distinguished gated community Quinta das Portas in Amares, this riverside villa was designed by Portuguese architect Fernando Jorge and built by Sá Taqueiro. Just ten minutes from Braga’s city center, the home offers a rare combination of architectural refinement and natural serenity on the banks of the Rio Cávado.

The project reflects Jorge’s ability to balance modernist structure with warmth and livability. Organized over two floors, the villa features clean volumes, generous glazing, and carefully planned interior flow. The living area opens onto a large terrace with unobstructed river views — a true retreat blending modern architecture with the beauty of its setting.

15. Contemporary Villa by Carlos Prata – Porto (Aviz/Foz)

T4 , 180 m² garden & terraces, 1.500.000 Euro

This elegant villa in Porto was designed by Carlos Prata, one of Portugal’s most respected modern architects. A longtime collaborator of Fernando Távora and a former professor at FAUP, Prata is known for his rigorous, poetic approach to architecture — balancing geometric clarity with warm materiality.

Set on a south-facing plot near Porto’s City Park, the home reflects Prata’s signature values: clean lines, well-proportioned spaces, and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. With four suites, multiple terraces, and refined finishes throughout, it’s a rare opportunity to own a livable work of architectural authorship in one of the city’s most desirable neighborhoods.

16. Architect-Designed Villa by Noé Diniz and Maria Luísa Penha

4+1 Bedrooms, 2.300 sqm – Santo Tirso

This unique property offers more than 2,300 m² of land, a saltwater swimming pool, a private tennis court, and a rare combination of architectural quality and natural serenity—all just 20 minutes from Porto.

The main house was originally designed by Noé Diniz, a prominent figure in northern Portugal’s modernist movement, known for blending international modernism with traditional Portuguese architecture. More recently, the house was carefully updated by the architecture and design studio Bastir, preserving its original character while improving comfort and flow.

In addition to the main house, the property includes a versatile pavilion designed by Maria Luísa Penha Souto de Moura. This independent space is ideal for guests, creative projects, or working from home, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Surrounded by rich vegetation, a natural lake with lotus flowers, and generous outdoor spaces for leisure or gardening, this is a rare opportunity to live in a house with soul, space, and timeless architecture—without giving up access to all essential services.

17. Light-Filled Modern Villa by Jorge Ferreira – Leça da Palmeira (near Porto)

T4+1 , 1,000 m² plot, 2,050,000 Euro

This exceptional one-story villa, located just steps from the beach in Leça da Palmeira, is a rare architectural work by Jorge Ferreira, a respected Portuguese architect known for his close professional collaboration with Álvaro Siza Vieira. Built in 2003, the villa reflects the quiet sophistication and precision that defines the best of contemporary Portuguese architecture.

While Jorge Ferreira may be less internationally known than his mentor Siza, his work embodies many of the same principles: careful control of natural light, seamless dialogue with the landscape, and a clear, rational geometry that creates both serenity and richness in daily living.

Designed to maximize privacy and light, every main space opens directly to the lush garden through full-height glass doors. Clever skylights bring daylight into interior corridors, bathrooms, and service areas — even spaces without windows feel naturally lit, thanks to Ferreira’s mastery of indirect illumination.

The house is fully oriented to its natural surroundings: quiet, private, and bathed in sunlight, yet just moments from the ocean. The long, continuous garden wall that extends from the exterior into the heart of the house is a subtle architectural gesture, dividing functional areas while maintaining openness — a hallmark of Portuguese modernism.

Last Friday, April 25th, Portugal celebrated 51 years since the Carnation Revolution – a turning point that not only changed its political system, but also transformed the way the country builds, imagines, and lives in its spaces.

Over the last five decades, Portuguese architecture has become a global reference, blending social responsibility, design innovation, and artistic excellence.

At the moment, Casa da Arquitectura in Matosinhos (Porto) is presenting a fantastic exhibition called “O que faz falta – 50 anos de arquitetura portuguesa em democracia”.

It’s structured as a journey through five major periods of modern architecture — and I’d like to share it with you.

The timeline of 50 Years of Modern Architecture in Portugal:

• REVOLUTION (1974–1983)

• EUROPA (1984–1993)

•END OF THE CENTURY (1994–2003)

• TROIKA (2004–2013)

• WI-FI (2014–2023)

This was one of the best architecture exhibitions I have seen in Portugal, showing over 50 buildings, most represented with original 3D models.

1. REVOLUTION (1974–1983): Building a New Society – Social Housing

On April 25, 1974, Portugal woke up to a new world.

While the rest of Europe spent the ’50s and ’60s exploring democracy, Portugal stayed frozen in dictatorship — until, finally, what the poet Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen called “the first full day with a clean slate” arrived.

Architecture didn’t completely start from zero, but it gained a new purpose: create democratic spaces for everyone.

One huge step was the creation of SAAL (Serviço Ambulatório de Apoio Local), launched just a few months after the Revolution.

Now world-famous architects like Álvaro Siza Vieira and Gonçalo Byrne worked directly with local communities to replace slums with real, dignified homes.

Architecture became political — an act of solidarity and a tool for building a better society.

(Bairro da Bouça Porto, Álvaro Siza Photo by Ben)

2. EUROPA (1984–1993): Embracing European Integration – Infrastruct

By the mid-80s, Portugal had secured its democracy — and joining the European Economic Community in 1986 sent a clear message: Portugal was ready to reinvent itself.

Architecture led the way. Across the country, fresh ideas mixed regional traditions with artistic experimentation.

Thanks to European funds, there was massive investment in infrastructure: new universities, schools, cultural centers, and city halls.

At the same time, Portugal’s economy shifted from mainly agriculture to manufacturing and tourism.

One highlight is City Hall of Matosinhos, by Alcino Soutinho, started in 1976 — the first big public building after the Revolution, full of optimism and civic pride.

(City Hall of Matosinhos, Alcino Soutinho, Images by Ben)

Architecture also entered the media spotlight with Tomás Taveira’s Amoreiras Complex in Lisbon — colorful, controversial, and impossible to ignore.

(Amoreiras Complex, Image by Triplecaña Wikipedia)

Meanwhile, universities expanded rapidly: new campuses opened in Lisbon, Aveiro, and Porto.

(Alcino Soutinho, Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering, University of Aveiro 1988 – 1991, Image by Ben)

Public education, almost non-existent before the Revolution, became a national priority.

A proud moment came when Álvaro Siza Vieira received the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1992 — the first Portuguese architect ever honored with the “Nobel Prize of Architecture.”

3. END OF THE CENTURY (1994–2003): Optimism and Reflection – Expo, Sport and Villas

The end of the 20th century was a time of excitement and ambition.

The euphoria of big events like Expo ’98 set the mood, and architecture became a key part of Portugal’s new global image.

At Expo ’98, Álvaro Siza’s stunning Pavilion of Portugal stole the show. Its flowing concrete canopy became an unexpected new icon for Lisbon and modern Portuguese architecture.

(Pavilion of Portugal Expo 98, Álvaro Siza Image by Ben)

Two icons bookend this period: the Centro Cultural de Belém (Lisbon) by Vittorio Gregotti, Manuel Salgado and Casa da Música in Porto by Rem Koolhaas.

(Centro Cultural de Belém, Image from Therese C – Flickr: DSCN5750)

(Casa da Música, Image by Ben)

It was a time of huge construction, with Portugal racing to catch up after decades of isolation. Architects were pushed to new technical and formal limits, while the European Union kept the support flowing.

University education expanded across the country.

Projects like the Mitra Campus in Évora, the Library of the University of Beira Interior, and the Mechanical Engineering Department at the University of Aveiro showed the energy of decentralization.

(Adalberto Dias, University of Aveiro Image by Ben)

Meanwhile, Portugal’s bid to host UEFA Euro 2004 led to a boom in sports infrastructure.

One of the highlights is the Stadium of Braga, designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura — a bold fusion of a stone quarry and a football stadium.

(Braga Stadium, Image by 準建築人手札網站 Forgemind ArchiMedia (Wikipedia))

Even the Bom Sucesso Resort, a visionary project near Óbidos with 23 Portuguese architects designing 600 houses, was born in this era of optimism.

4. TROIKA (2004–2013): Crisis and Creativity

The 2008 global financial crisis hit Portugal hard.

Under the strict supervision of the Troika (European Commission, ECB, and IMF), the country entered years of austerity.

This had a devastating effect on architecture: public investments stopped, many firms closed, and big projects disappeared.

But hard times also brought new creativity.

Architects focused on small-scale, sustainable, and adaptive reuse projects — often smarter, more sensitive, and community-focused.

Sadly, even big developments like Bom Sucesso Resort faced bankruptcy.

Still, there were bright moments: in 2011, Eduardo Souto de Moura received the Pritzker Prize, following in the footsteps of his mentor Siza Vieira — once again bringing international recognition to Portuguese architecture.

5. WI-FI (2014–2023): Digitalization and Sustainability

Today, Portuguese architecture is fully plugged into global trends: smart technologies, environmental responsibility, and cultural sensitivity are front and center.

After the crisis, European funding helped Portugal recover, leading to new infrastructure projects and cultural initiatives all over the country.

Architects embraced sustainability, regional development, and innovation — while also facing growing challenges like housing shortages and tourism pressure.

Some of the boldest recent works include the Arquipélago Contemporary Arts Centre in the Azores, the restored Bolhão Market in Porto, and the Campanhã Intermodal Terminal.

In the wine and olive oil sectors, new spaces like Adega Azores Wine Company and Adega 23 have blended architecture, sustainability, and tourism.

A new generation of architects is pushing the boundaries too, with smaller but powerful projects like Six Houses and a Garden by fala atelier and House Over the Hills by Diogo Aguiar Studio.

Final Thoughts

Looking at the past 50+1 years, it’s clear that architecture in Portugal has never just been about buildings.

It’s about democracy, community, creativity, and resilience — from the dreams of 1974 to today’s smart and sustainable designs.

If you ever have the chance to visit Casa da Arquitectura in Matosinhos, I highly recommend it. This exhibition goes till September 2025

It’s a journey through history, but also a window into the future.

I hope you enjoyed the time travel,

Ben

Portugal Modern is proud to announce that we’ve received a rare set of original photographs and 3D model images from architect João Pedro Falcão de Campos, documenting his project at Bom Sucesso Resort.

Falcão de Campos is known for his minimalist and highly functional approach to design. With over 30 years of architectural practice, his work balances modernist clarity with a deep sensitivity to context, light, and material. He has collaborated with giants of Portuguese architecture, including Álvaro Siza Vieira and Gonçalo Byrne, and continues to shape contemporary architectural discourse.

His contribution to Bom Sucesso—23 terraced T2 houses on Lot 287 along Caminho do Lago—stands as a masterclass in terrain integration and spatial economy. Built across three levels to follow the natural slope of the land, these homes are defined by a rhythmic play of courtyards, generous light, and precise sightlines over the golf course. As Falcão de Campos notes:

“The succession of courtyards that characterizes the project allows the houses to receive light from various directions, contradicting the band, generally exposed only on two elevations.”

We’re honored to share his documentation—now available exclusively on PortugalModern.com—offering a rare glimpse into the design process and spatial logic behind one of the resort’s most thoughtful ensembles.

We thank Falcão de Campos and Team for kindly sharing these images with us.

From early owners at Bom Sucesso Resort, I received some amazing photos showing what this place looked like around 20 years ago. I thought it would be fun to share them with you — and for some of them, I’ve added pictures of what the same spots look like today.

At that time, only the sales pavilion had been built — maybe some of you visited back then, standing in the middle of all that dust, trying to imagine what would one day rise around you.

There was no Álvaro Siza, no David Chipperfield, no green fairways or paved streets. Just sand, rocks, trenches — and the vision to create “the largest living and permanent exhibition of private, contemporary architecture.”

Some of the architects who helped prepare the land told us it looked “like the surface of the moon.” Hard to imagine now, right? There weren’t many trees here either.

Since then, Bom Sucesso Resort has transformed its landscape by planting over 15,000 trees, including more than 2,000 ancient olive trees, some of which are over a thousand years old. Pines and other native species now define the character of the resort, making greenery a central part of everyday life. Remarkably, only seven percent of the 160-hectare site is occupied by new construction, preserving the natural setting that makes this place so unique.

A Dusty Beginning at Bom Sucesso Resort

When construction began in 2004–2005, Bom Sucesso Resort was nothing but rugged terrain. All roads were still raw paths. The lake near the Clubhouse was just a clay pit. Everything had to be built from scratch — including the entire network of streets, lakes, golf holes, and utility systems.

Why an Archaeologist Was on Site at Bom Sucesso Resort

Because Bom Sucesso Resort borders the Óbidos Lagoon — a historically rich area — every trench had to be monitored by an archaeologist. Over two years of excavation, two small ceramic fragments were found.

– A yellow-glazed shard near what is now Golf Hole 4

– A green-painted fragment near Golf Hole 6

These were the only finds during two years of archaeological monitoring. No significant remains were discovered, but the team stayed alert — just in case the ground had more stories to tell.

How the Golf Courses at Bom Sucesso Resort Were Built

The stunning fairways we see today? They began with shallow irrigation ditches and deep earthworks. Golf holes were carefully carved into the landscape, with soil moved and reshaped meter by meter. Clay taken from on place helped form the base of lakes at another place. It was pure landscape engineering.

Bom Sucesso Resort: Built Lot by Lot, Street by Street

Everything in the resort was shaped by hand and machine:

• Streets were leveled and widened

• Drainage and specialty networks were installed

• Slopes were adjusted to manage rainwater and irrigation

• And plots were carved out one by one, often in challenging conditions

5 Behind-the-Scenes Facts from the Early Days at Bom Sucesso Resort

1. Bom Sucesso was built with serious earthworks

Some areas were excavated up to 10 meters deep to level the terrain and prepare for construction. This wasn’t just landscaping — it was full-scale land reshaping. Imagine standing at street level today and knowing the earth below you was completely reworked by machines 20 years ago.

2. The lakes at Bom Sucesso are man-made and engineered from clay

Lakes were carefully carved into the landscape and built using local clay extracted from other areas of the Resort, to form the lake banks and seal the ground.

3. Some parts of the site at Bom Sucesso were so muddy, work had to stop

Rainy weather sometimes turned work sites into impassable mud zones, especially near Lake at Golf Hole 3 and the access road. The construction teams even had to pump out water in places and use gravel or sand just to move equipment.

4. Early infrastructure at Bom Sucesso was built before most houses existed

Even before homes were started, specialty networks like gas, electricity, water, and telecom lines were being laid underground. These systems were installed along raw, unpaved roads — long before the first villas were built.

5. There’s a heliport at Bom Sucesso — and it had to be blasted into shape

The area for the heliport, near the Tennis club, required blasting and leveling. The earth removed was repurposed for other parts of the resort.

Then and Now: The Evolution of Bom Sucesso Resort

Today, it’s hard to imagine Bom Sucesso Resort without its elegant homes, quiet streets, and mature landscaping. But these photos tell a different story — a story of effort, vision, and raw transformation.

Scroll through the gallery below to see the difference. For some early photo, I’ve added current image of what the same location looks like today. You might just recognize your street or backyard.

Bom Sucesso Resort Phase I Satellite Picture 20 Years Ago

A high-resolution satellite image from that time is also available — you can download it here to explore Bom Sucesso Resort as it looked in the very beginning.

Bom Sucesso Resort Golf Hole 3 and Volta do Lago — Today vs. 20 Years Ago

Bom Sucesso Resort Phase 1 — View from R. Alta do Monte Verde: Today vs. 20 Years Ago

Nuno Graça Moura’s 24 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort — Today vs. 20 Years Ago ( I assume it is this location)

Lake at Golf Hole 13, Eduardo Souto de Moura‘s 6 Red Lake side Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort – Today vs. 20 Years Ago

View From Bom Sucesso’s Tennis Court – Today vs. 20 Years Ago

View from R. Bela, Bom Sucesso Phase II Today vs. 20 Years Ago

View to Phase I at Bom Sucesso Today vs. 20 Years Ago

Can you identify where these picture are taken at Bom Sucesso Resort ?

Additional Pictures from Josep Llinás