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
© 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.
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.
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
At the early stages of Bom Sucesso Resort, the developer Acordo produced a series of beautifully designed sales brochures to promote the vision and architectural ambition of the project. These brochures—available in English, Spanish, German, and Portuguese—played a key role in the original Bom Sucesso promotion strategy, offering a glimpse into what was planned and what inspired the unique development in Óbidos, Portugal.
Thanks to the generosity of Darren, Andre, Usha, Matthew, and Erich—some of the first homeowners at Bom Sucesso—we’ve been able to scan and archive several of these original brochures. These are large-format, high-quality publications, printed on A3 paper with elegant layouts and striking photography. Each version reflects a different stage of the resort’s evolution.
Whether you’re a fan of modern architecture, an owner at Bom Sucesso, or simply curious about its origins, these brochures are a fascinating part of the resort’s story.
1. Sales Brochure V1 – Bom Sucesso Resort
Format: A3 Horizontal, 12 pages
This is likely the earliest version, as the map includes several buildings that were never constructed. It feels like a first draft of the Bom Sucesso vision.
- View the English version here
2. Sales Brochure V2 – Bom Sucesso Resort
Format: A4 Vertical, 8 pages
This edition marks the first time the architects of Phase One were formally introduced, including quotes about their individual design philosophies.
- View the Portuguese version here
3. Sales Brochure V3 – Bom Sucesso Resort
Format: A3 Vertical, 28 pages
Still using the original Bom Sucesso logo, this version introduces “Phase 3” on the resort map and shows a broader view of the long-term development plan.
4. Sales Brochure V4 – Bom Sucesso Resort
Format: A3 Vertical, 28 pages
This is one of the most refined versions, featuring the updated logo with a transparent, high-quality print on the cover. It is available in three languages:
The German edition uniquely highlights a proposed house by Álvaro Siza Vieira on its opening pages—a model that, interestingly, was never built. This may have been created later to support a targeted Bom Sucesso promotion campaign in German-speaking markets.
5. Sales Brochure for Bom Sucesso Golf Course
Format: A4 Horizontal, 30 pages
This brochure shifts focus to promote the Bom Sucesso golf course, one of the resort’s major lifestyle features.
- View the Portuguese version here
Why These Brochures Matter
These publications are more than just marketing materials—they are a part of the resort’s cultural and architectural heritage. They showcase how Bom Sucesso aimed to create a bold, modernist community that brought together some of the most respected architects in Portugal and Europe.
If you only have time to check out one, I highly recommend Sales Brochure V4. It’s visually elegant and gives the most complete insight into the original vision for Bom Sucesso Resort.
Help Us Expand the Archive
If you have other brochures—especially versions we don’t yet have or in other languages—please reach out! We’d love to preserve them for the community and continue building this historical archive of Bom Sucesso promotions and development milestones.
Thank you, Ben
Twenty years ago, the Bom Sucesso Resort (BSR) project was shown to the public for the first time at an event in the Centro Cultural de Belém (Lisbon). After the event, there was a multi-day exhibition showing models of the houses in Phase One. A catalog called “14 Arquitectos: Projectos do Bom Sucesso Resort” was also published.
(Catalog which is the first publication of Bom Sucesso can be downloaded here)
At that time, the project’s promoter said it took 12 years to get the legal approval for the development. Bom Sucesso Resort was advertised as the largest exhibition of contemporary architecture, which is true. But some other promises were not kept. For example, they said BSR would become “the top reference in Europe for luxury real estate developments” and that the project would be finished in five years.
Special about Bom Sucesso is the modern lifestyle and the wonderful international community. We hope that one day the project will be completed as the amazing architectural icon it was meant to be.
You can read the 20-year-old article from Público here in Portuguese.
It is great to live with you at Bom Sucesso, Happy Birthday!
Ben
In 2024, the esteemed Spanish architect Josep Llinàs was honored with the Gold Medal for Architecture by the Consejo Superior de los Colegios de Arquitectos de España (CSCAE) (details here). This accolade, the highest in Spanish architecture, recognizes Llinàs’s profound impact on the field through his thoughtful designs and dedication to architectural education .
The Visionary Approach of Josep Llinàs in Modern Architecture
Llinàs’s architectural philosophy emphasizes a harmonious dialogue between new constructions and their existing environments. His notable works include the Jaume Fuster Library in Barcelona and the Central Library in Terrassa, both exemplifying his commitment to integrating structures seamlessly into their urban contexts .
Josep Llinàs at Bom Sucesso Resort
At Bom Sucesso Resort in Óbidos, Portugal, Llinàs contributed to the resort’s architectural diversity by designing a unique housing typology. His involvement adds to the resort’s reputation as a living exhibition of contemporary architecture.
Josep Llinás‘ 6 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
Bom Sucesso Resort, located on Portugal’s Silver Coast, is a remarkable experiment in contemporary architecture. Designed by an impressive roster of national and international architects, it represents a rare example of large-scale, coordinated architectural ambition. As interest in modern architecture continues to grow, so does the body of literature documenting Publications Bom Sucesso. Below is a curated selection of architecture publications about Bom Sucesso, including both general project overviews and publications focused on specific architects and houses.
Sales Publications
For more insights, explore various Bom Sucesso Publications to understand its architectural significance in depth.
1) Bom Sucesso Sales Brochure
The original Bom Sucesso sales brochure is an oversized publication with a bold red cover. It provides a comprehensive overview of the project, including a full list of participating architects, maps of the resort’s development phases, and photos of the house models. Available in Portuguese, English, and German, this document is a valuable starting point for understanding the overall vision.
It’s a must-see for anyone researching Bom Sucesso.
See English version here
You can also find a detailed review in our latest blog post about all sales brochures including German, Spanish and Portuguese versions. Read here
2) Exhibition Book: 14 Arquitectos Projectos Do Bom Sucesso Resort
This book was originally released in conjunction with an exhibition held in December 2004 at the Centro Cultural de Belém in Lisbon. The exhibition, and the book that accompanied it, introduced the first phase of the project and presented work by 14 architects. While the exhibition itself is less documented, the book remains an important reference and was handed out to early property buyers.
A scanned version is available here.
Architectural Publications
3) Álvaro Siza – Design Process: Quinta do Bom Sucesso Housing Project (2013)
Álvaro Siza Vieira‘s – 14 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
This monograph documents the design of Álvaro Siza Vieira’s house at Bom Sucesso in great detail. It includes sketches, plans, and commentary on the development process, offering rare insight into the architect’s methodology.
ISBN: 9789898481290
4) Eduardo Souto de Moura – El Croquis 145 (2009)
Eduardo Souto de Moura‘s – Unfinished Hotel at Bom Sucesso Resort, 13 C-Shaped Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort, 10 Hilltop Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort, 6 Red Lakeside Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
This volume of El Croquis features four houses and the hotel designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura for Bom Sucesso. It includes sketches, technical drawings, and thoughtful analysis of his approach to context and material.
ISBN: 9788488386557
This book is collectible and often sells for over €100, a digital version is available for €14.
ARCHINEWS 16 | Eduardo Souto de Moura
A print publication that includes 3D model views of all houses of Eduardo Souto de Moura at Bom Sucesso Resort.
5) Alcino Soutinho – Arche News 14 (2009)
Alcino Soutinho‘s – 14 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
This issue of Arche News includes coverage of one of Alcino Soutinho’s houses in Bom Sucesso’s first phase. It combines photography, brief analysis, and insights into Soutinho’s architectural philosophy.
ISBN: 5601073067485
6) João Luís Carrilho da Graça – Architectural Guide (2019)
Carrilho da Graça‘s – 14 Houses at Quinta do Bom Sucesso Resort
This guide covers João Luís Carrilho da Graça’s contribution to Bom Sucesso. One interesting fact is that he originally intended for his houses to be painted white—contrary to their current red color.
ISBN: 9789899846296
7) Gonçalo Byrne – A Casa de Quem Faz as Casas (2016)
Gonçalo Byrne – The Fingers – 16 Unfinished Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort
This book including Gonçalo Byrne’s contribution to the resort, known informally as “The Fingers,” an unfinished sub-condominium of striking design.
ISBN: 9789898851048
8) Manuel Aires Mateus
Manuel Aries Mateus‘ – 7 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort
The project by Manuel Aires Mateus at Bom Sucesso is featured in multiple publications:
a) Architectural Guide Aires Mateus (2019)
ISBN: 9789895440139
b) El Croquis: Aires Mateus 2002–2018 (2019)
ISBN: 9788494775437
c) L’architettura di Aires Mateus (Italian, 2009)
These books explore themes of light, geometry, and silence, central to Aires Mateus’s body of work.
ISBN: 9788837078102
9) Graça Dias & Egas Vieira
Egas José Vieira, Manuel Graça Dias‘ – 13 Round Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort
The Round Houses designed by Graça Dias and Egas Vieira are featured in:
a) Graça Dias & Egas Vieira Arquitectos Portugueses Série 2 (2014)
ISBN: 9789898657480
b) Manuel Graça Dias – A Casa de Quem Faz as Casas (2016)
ISBN: 9789898851017
These publications include photos, models, and design sketches, highlighting their distinct approach.
Portuguese Contemporary Houses – José Manuel Das Neves
ISBN: 9789898456601
10) Madalena Menezes & Teixeira Bastos – Casa X (2012)
Madalena Menezes and Teixeira Bastos‘ – 6 Casa X Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
The house known as Casa X is documented in:
Modernização da Escola Secundária Rainha Dona Leonor + Casa X – Atelier dos Remédios
ISBN: 9789898456199
This book pairs the residential project with a school renovation, showcasing the studio’s range.
11) Nuno Brandão Costa – ARCHINEWS 21 (2011)
Nuno Brandao Costa ‘s- 7 Houses in Óbidos at Bom Sucesso Resort
This edition features Nuno Brandão Costa’s striking house at Bom Sucesso, emphasizing mass, structure, and the play of light in its design.
Conclusion
Bom Sucesso Resort has captured the attention of architects, critics, and enthusiasts alike. The publications listed above offer diverse perspectives on the resort’s bold architectural vision. From sales materials to scholarly monographs, each book contributes to a deeper understanding of this unique architectural experiment on the Portuguese coast.
If you know of additional publications about Bom Sucesso’s architecture, feel free to get in touch. This list will continue to grow as more researchers, collectors, and travelers explore and document the resort.
Thank you, Ben
Summary
In my Analysis of Bom Sucesso Resort’s development, focusing on Villas, I challenge the reported completion of 402 out of 600 buildings by early 2024. In conclusion, I stress the need for stakeholders to focus on completing the entire Analysis of Bom Sucesso resort, urging administrative responsibility and an inquiry into major plot owners’ intentions.
Disclaimer: The information contained is to the best of my knowledge at the date, and I’m happy to correct any typo or error.
Intro
According to the condominium administration, 402 out of 600 buildings within the Bom Sucesso Resort have been completed by the beginning of 2024. However, strolling through the resort feels less than 66% is done. And I’m questioning if BSR management and major stakeholders intend to finish BSR.
As part of my ongoing Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I’m questioning whether the management is genuinely committed to the future of the resort.
> Can we anticipate completing the remaining 200 buildings within the next ten years, given that it took 20 years to construct the initial 400 buildings?
Twenty years ago, in 2004, Bom Sucesso Resort was first presented to the public (article here), and in 2006, when they announced the second phase, they aimed to finish construction by 2011 (article here).
The resort faced challenging times by being bankrupt in 2014 (article here); at that time, Maria da Graça Meireles from BS Villas, who was responsible for the BSR Condominium administration, said about the resort: “Now it’s not even about completing it, but about saving it’.” I want to learn from the current management led by Eduardo Montenegro if this is still the case or if they feel responsible for finishing the resort.
Edit: In 2015 when the Onebiz Group took over BS Villas, the CEO Pedro Portugal said: “I think that within two or three years the project will be practically finished”. (Article here)
Good news: In the last two years, I have witnessed the resort gaining momentum with a growing community and progressing toward completion. But can we see this in numbers? The turn of the year was an excellent time to take a snapshot of Bom Sucesso Resort’s development.
The Analysis of Bom Sucesso includes examining the architectural integrity of the remaining buildings.Through my Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I aim to reveal the true state of the resort’s development.This Analysis of Bom Sucesso not only focuses on villas but also on the resort’s overall progress.
Analysis January 2024
In my Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I have noted the impact of subcondominiums on the overall community.
I compiled this dataset independently, personally counting houses, assessing development status, and interpreting the data. This data set will be more meaningful, comparing it over the coming years. Despite my inquiry, the condominium could not provide me with any data for this assessment.
My primary focus is on the villas at Bom Sucesso, but I’ll briefly touch on other projects. Notably, long-standing issues with “The Three Large Ruins” have remained in this state for a decade.
Sub-condominiums
As we can see in this Analysis of Bom Sucesso, commercial buildings play a crucial role in attracting visitors.
Subcondominiums are predominantly row houses sharing a garden and pool at Bom Sucesso, with 15 at BSR (by counting the plot numbers). One, Caminho do Lago 13-21, Lot 234, remains unbuilt. Two are stopped, and I think they strongly impact BSR’s reputation:
Continuing my Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I will highlight the importance of the hotel industry in the resort’s success.
This Analysis of Bom Sucesso indicates a significant number of villas still need to be addressed.
- Lot 288 on Rua Bela 7-55 is owned by Abanca Bank.
- Lot 313 on Rua da Lagoa 28-58, “The Fingers,” is owned by Sintonizavalor soc imobiliaria lda
In my Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I will compare this year’s status with past data.
Commercial Buildings
The Analysis of Bom Sucesso shows that even with ongoing challenges, the community is hopeful.
This Analysis of Bom Sucesso points to the need for renewed efforts to finish what has started.
Initially planned for Hilton with 120 beds, the hotel faced a construction halt in 2014. Owned by Roberto Solis SA (BS Villas) today, the completion status of this hotel significantly influences other investors’ decisions. Furthermore, a functioning hotel is imperative for Bom Sucesso to call itself a resort.
Through this detailed Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I encourage stakeholders to take action.
Let’s focus on Villas at Bom Sucesso for this analysis in January 2024.
The Analysis of Bom Sucesso will provide a clearer picture of the property landscape.
Out of the initially planned 326 villas at Bom Sucesso Resort, the current status reveals that only 159 have been completed (49%), while 138 villa plots are empty (42%).
Continuing the Analysis of Bom Sucesso, the importance of plot ownership cannot be overlooked.
This ongoing Analysis of Bom Sucesso reveals critical insights into land ownership and strategy.
In this Analysis of Bom Sucesso, I highlight the role of companies advancing construction.
Furthermore, my Analysis of Bom Sucesso will acknowledge the contributions of private owners.
As part of the Analysis of Bom Sucesso, it is essential to monitor changes in city property ownership.
In conclusion, this Analysis of Bom Sucesso indicates the need for proactive strategies.
Sixteen villas (5%) are currently under construction. With the hopeful completion this year, the development progress would surpass 50%.
This comprehensive Analysis of Bom Sucesso will continue to evolve as new data becomes available.
Thirteen villas (4%) are in a construction suspension/“ruins.”
Comparing this year’s data with data published by the press teen years ago, when BSR went bankrupt, it reveals progress: The press reported at that time (here) that 350 buildings were built, and 80 houses were under construction, but many of them were being stopped.
Since the historical data does not focus on just villas, we need to compare it to the 402 Buildings reported as finished by the administration. It shows progress; luckily, we no longer have so many ruins. However, the progress does not show enough speed to finish the other 200 buildings in the next ten years.
Edit: An academic study (here), based on official data from the city of Obidos, reported 338 finished houses in 2014. This shows only 64 buildings have been completed in the last ten years. When the development continues at this speed, it will take 30 more years to complete the resort.
Plot ownership
Abanca Bank is the leading owner of 37 undeveloped villa plots and owns one stopped villa project. (They have 11% of the condominium votes)
The second largest landowner is “Sintonizavalor soc imobiliaria lda” with 28 undeveloped plots, three stopped, and only one finished Villa. One project was in progress, but it has been months since I have seen activities, so I categorized it as stopped.
Intriguingly, these two major players own 47% of all empty plots, including premium locations designed by top architects like David Cahperfiled, Álvaro Leite Siza, and Manuel Aires Mateus. Since they don’t own finished villa projects (except one), I could not find their plots listed on public real estate platforms like Idealista. The question arises: What are their intentions for these plots? Are they strategically holding them back?
A notable actor driving progress is the company named Round B, which is actively finalizing the construction of three red houses at the lake. Additionally, they have acquired a few more properties to complete existing structures and initiate new buildings from scratch.
Some private owners are finishing villas, which I do not list here.
Over the last two years, the City of Óbidos has sold six plots. Only two plots remain under their ownership, showcasing a significant shift in the city’s property portfolio at BSR.
The BBVA Bank currently holds seven plots. They intend to exit the BSR market. In mid-January, they tried to sell all plots via action, starting at 85k Euro, but none got sold. (Action here)
Real Estate Market
I took an interest in taking a snapshot of the number of villas and plots offered on the real estate market (while I’m not monitoring house prices). As of early January 2024, the data on Idaialista reveals a dynamic landscape:
- Finished Villas: 28 units (18%) are currently listed for sale.
- Empty Plots: 41 plots (30%) are available for prospective buyers.
- Stopped Projects: 4 projects (31%) are on the market. Some are available in their current state, while others are offered the option of services to complete their construction.
In addition to the villa offerings, the market provided ten Sub-Condominium Units and one commercial property for sale.
Conclusion:
Focus on the Big Picture:
As stakeholders of Bom Sucesso Resort, we should focus on the grand vision of completing the entire resort. We must transition into a scale mode by finding like-minded investments to ensure sustained growth. This venture can only succeed if we grow it to its full potential.
Administrative Responsibility:
Get the commitment from the Bom Sucesso management, led by Eduardo Montenegro, to complete the resort. And to establish the foundational conditions for fostering growth.
Hotel and Sub-Condominium Status:
Hold the BSR administration accountable for promoting the completion of “The Three Big Ruins”, and requesting reports about the status on a quarterly base.
Major Plot Owners’ Intentions:
Inquiring into the intentions of major land owners, such as Abanca Bank and Sintonizavalor soc imobiliaria lda, becomes paramount. Owning a significant percentage of empty plots, their strategies can significantly impact the future development and market dynamics at Bom Sucesso Resort.
In a groundbreaking achievement, renowned architect David Chipperfield has been honored with the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize for the year 2023. This accolade marks a significant milestone for Chipperfield, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field of architecture.
Notably, this achievement also holds special significance for Bom Sucesso Resort, as David Chipperfield becomes the third architect associated with the resort to receive the esteemed Pritzker Prize. Eduardo Souto de Moura revide the price 2011 and Álvaro Siza Vieira 1992 . The resort, already celebrated for its avant-garde design and collaborative approach, now boasts a trifecta of Pritzker laureates among its contributors.
We believe Bom Sucesso is the only place in the world where you have buildings designed by 3 Pritzker laureates within less than 1 mile.
As Bom Sucesso Resort continues to attract global attention, the recognition of David Chipperfield’s achievements through the Pritzker Prize underscores the resort’s status to becoming an iconic place.
David Chipperfield‘s 4 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort at Bom Sucesso Resort Obidos Portugal.
