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The rehabilitation and vibrant transformation of a countryside house in Alto Minho, Portugal.
Located in the countryside in Alto Minho, Portugal, Casa do Castanheiro, or Chestnut House, is a traditional, two-story residence with a large garden and views of both forested hills and the Atlantic Ocean. Architecture firm Luppa Architects rehabilitated the house and a second volume that had been previously used to store agricultural tools. The renovation and modernization of both buildings followed the local Minho tradition of using granite, white plaster and an oxblood red color for the exteriors. Inside, the main house and adjacent volume feature a vibrant color palette that also gives a nod to tradition.
A new corridor connects the volumes and allows the residents to use them independently. In the main house, a new staircase links the two floors while also organizing the upper level. The studio used a vibrant color palette throughout the house and annex. The former storage space for agricultural utensils now houses bedrooms and bathrooms; this volume features dark green ceilings, oxblood red floors and yellow door frames, walls, and accents.
In the main house, the yellow staircase leads to the open-plan upper floor that boasts dark red wooden beams and matching pendant lights and dining chairs. This area contains the living room, dining area and kitchen, all opening to a balcony and a terrace; the latter creates a covered space on the garden level. Throughout, large windows and glass doors provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding nature, creating a blissful atmosphere in Casa do Castanheiro. Photography© Ivo Tavares Studio.
