Portuguese studio António Costa Lima Arquitectos has unveiled Praia do Bom Sucesso, a striking trio of homes in Lisbon crafted with exposed brickwork and weathered steel. This architectural marvel is located close to the northern bank of the Tagus River, with the modern structures situated behind the preserved facade of an old warehouse. This area, steeped in industrial history, now hosts these ingeniously designed homes.
Architectural Harmony with a Modern Touch
Inspired by the neighborhood’s industrial roots, António Costa Lima Arquitectos conceived a warehouse-like design. The development employs brick and steel to harmonize with the historic facade on the north side, while revealing expanses of glazing and balconies to the south. Founder António Costa Lima describes the approach as a transformation: “The building is gradually ‘decomposed’ by the subtraction of its volume, creating a difference between both sides of the building.”
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Contrast and Light: Architectural Duality
The contrasting styles showcase a “harder and opaque” northern facade and a transparent southern aspect. This design achieves a morphological transition that preserves the historic charm facing Rua da Praia do Bom Sucesso, while unveiling a new metallic skeleton to the south.
Innovative Use of Space and Light
The deep site is divided into two gabled volumes around three courtyards. These are enclosed with glazing and perforated brickwork, channeling natural daylight into each residence. This contemporary creation features a ground floor with private patios and garages, leading to the lower living areas, while enclosed northern sides house two en-suite bedrooms.
A weathered steel staircase ascends to the first floor, where perforated brick walls line corridors linking living, dining, and kitchen spaces. These areas, positioned around a central glazed light well, benefit from abundant natural lighting.
Living Spaces Designed for Comfort
To the north, intimate spaces receive light through modest historic openings. Opposite, expansive southern glazing illuminates dining and living areas, opening onto terraces shaded by metal louvres. The interiors feature exposed brickwork and brown steel, complemented by timber floors and partially suspended white walls that leverage light from clerestory windows.
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This project expands António Costa Lima Arquitectos’ impressive portfolio, which includes converting a Lisbon waterfront warehouse into a home using perforated brick within historic stone structures. Photography by João Guimarães beautifully captures this blend of heritage and modernity.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Praia do Bom Sucesso homes located?
Praia do Bom Sucesso homes are located close to the northern bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon, behind the preserved facade of an old warehouse.
What materials are used in the Praia do Bom Sucesso homes?
The homes are crafted with exposed brickwork and weathered steel, complementing the historic and industrial aesthetic of the area.
How does the southern side of the homes differ from the northern?
The southern aspect is transparent with expanses of glazing and balconies, contrasting with the ‘harder and opaque’ northern facade that preserves historic charm.