Casa Alenquer

The existing house followed a familiar structure – entrance; hallway; three bedrooms to the right; living room and kitchen to the left; bathroom at the back. It felt small and had to grow to accommodate its new family. The construction aimed for a quantitative operation, with more area. But this gesture was not natural to it. Its structure did not grow. Instead, discovered that had a rather generous outdoor area and, from this awareness, learned that it could orient itelf outwards and thus expand. The facades remained practically intact. A porch that prevented the interior from flowing outwards disappeared, and a larger opening appeared, emphasizing this relationship. Inside, a central piece appears rotated and points towards the opening – a kind of sign that the house does not end here. Outside, a central platform organizes the entire garden. At its limits, some moments of pleasure appear punctually – benches that take advantage of the shade of the existing trees; An outdoor (shaded) gathering space that takes advantage of the magnificent view over the hill; a small, romantic-looking water tank to cool off and enjoy a gin (or any other drink).