Articles by Susanna Moreira

Almost pure interior, the space is an elaborate composition of fearless geometries. Three fluid walls are framed between a dotted marble floor and a white wavy ceiling. 

The main challenge of this project was to create a strong connection between internal and external spaces, typical of studio mk27 project in tropical climate, but in this case, in Whistler, a ski station in Canada where winters are harsh.

Located on the northern coast of São Paulo, this vacation residence is situated just a few meters from the sea, yet remains hidden from those enjoying the waves or the white sands of the beach. Completely surrounded by native coastal vegetation, the building blends into its lush surroundings. Designed as a neutral volume, with its translucent faces facing the neighboring lots, the layout prioritizes a frontal view of the beach through large glass openings, so as to incorporate in its reflections, as well as in its internal spaces, the hues of this biome. The translucency is ensured by the external cladding, made up of polycarbonate cellular panels that simultaneously filter light, sound, and heat.

A region’s identity is deeply tied to its community spaces. These spaces—whether parks, public squares, or community centers—reflect their users’ culture, history, and values. They don’t just preserve regional identity; they actively shape how communities engage with their environment, fostering a dynamic relationship between place and people. Community spaces are more than just physical locations; they are vital social hubs that foster engagement, cultural expression, and a sense of belonging. These spaces symbolize a shared identity and purpose.

A region’s identity is deeply tied to its community spaces. These spaces—whether parks, public squares, or community centers—reflect their users’ culture, history, and values. They don’t just preserve regional identity; they actively shape how communities engage with their environment, fostering a dynamic relationship between place and people. Community spaces are more than just physical locations; they are vital social hubs that foster engagement, cultural expression, and a sense of belonging. These spaces symbolize a shared identity and purpose.

When the Andrea Murao Office began developing this project, the main inspiration was to create a space that combined comfort and modernity in a casual and contemporary style. The idea was to make a house that was more than just functional; the office wanted it to have a welcoming atmosphere, where every detail contributed to a sense of well-being. For Andrea Murao, natural light was essential, so she prioritized maximizing sunlight. The single-story structure of the house, with its sloped roof and high ceiling in the living room, was designed to bring the desired charm, creating a bright and pleasant environment.

In this project, we were challenged to design three tiny houses to enhance the unique experience of a very special place: a regenerative agriculture farm at Alqueva, a region in Alentejo, of southeast Portugal. This area is defined by one of the largest dams in Europe, which marks the border between Portugal and Spain. The unique location encompasses the vast Montado forest crossed by the Alqueva Dam, an area also known for stargazing tourism as one of the darkest zones in Europe.

The geometry of a narrow house is settled within a few lines. The intervention happens both in plan projection and in section. Curved walls are intersected with sinuous ceiling resulting in a space that is not static. In the evening, multiple folds and creases create a bizarre game of light and shadow.