Accessed through a dark tunnel, Casa Essência, by PKB Arquitetura, is provocative. Upon arrival, a photo of Mariana after the disaster and a small reflecting pool remind us of the nature that invades: with water, mud, earth, pollution. From there, the space shows that the relationship between man and nature can be harmonious. Flanked by a small tropical forest, the living room brings the strength of human creation with handcrafted pieces and designer furniture. In the background, a panel handcrafted with interwoven pieces of wood opens the way to the bedroom: a refuge and shelter. “We wanted to combine a welcoming environment with Rio architecture with a warning message for the future.”