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A traditional Alentejo house, redesigned with new interiors that preserve the region’s charming architecture but enhance the connection to light and nature.
Situated on the outskirts of Estremoz in the region of Alentejo, Portugal, this traditional house has been revitalized by architect Vasco Burnay with new interiors that honor the area’s vernacular architecture and materiality while enhancing access to natural light and nature. Monte do Divor shows how a careful balance between tradition and contemporary design can anchor the charm of the past into the present. A respectful approach resulted in the preservation of the original architecture, with subtle interventions greatly enhancing the house’s level of comfort along with the permeability between the living spaces and outdoor areas.
The one-story, elongated volume boasts a classic pitched roof as well as two chimneys typical of the Alentejo area. The architect carefully redesigned some of the existing openings while adding new apertures to accentuate the dialogue between indoors and outdoors, filling the house with light at the same time. Arched doorways and ceilings with different designs and beam rhythms remain the same, merely gaining a coat of white paint that makes the shapes read clearly against warm tactile finishes. Terracotta floors, locally sourced marble and timber now cover the floors. The different materials mark different programs while giving a nod to Alentejo’s landscape and building traditions.
Interior partitions subtly redefine the organization of the floor plan, creating three main areas. The eastern wing houses the social areas, while the westward volume contains the bedrooms and bathrooms. The center holds functional programs. Widened openings and new windows promote a better spatial flow as well as access to plenty of light and natural ventilation. Compacted earth pathways expand the interiors to the outdoor areas which feature a welcoming dining space and a lounge space with a swimming pool. Photography by Ivo Tavares Studio.
