Designed from scratch, house with striking volumetry integrates with the exterior traduzido por: OPENROUTER

Located on Barra da Tijuca beach in Rio de Janeiro, this three-story residence reveals how architecture can shape — and transform — the routine of a large family. Designed by architects Rafa Gomes and Sandro Batalha, who lead Studio Plano (and are part of the CASACOR Santa Catarina lineup), the house of 990 m² of built area tells a story of new beginnings. Originally, the plan was a renovation with expansion. However, the diagnosis of structural unfeasibility of the old building changed the course of things: instead of a limitation, the demolition became the starting point for an ambitious project, custom-designed for a couple — he, a plastic surgeon; she, a non-practicing architect —, their three daughters, a baby on the way, and four dogs.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

The challenge of occupying the rectangular and elongated lot was solved with an intelligent linear distribution. At the front, an imposing textured graphite volume shelters the garage and the entrance foyer. Right after, the outdoor leisure area welcomes guests strategically, without interfering with the residents' privacy.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

The main body of the house celebrates spatial permeability: on the ground floor, the physical barriers practically disappear when the large glass frames retract, integrating the living room with the outdoor area. The pool, designed with a swimming lane and hot tub, borders the perimeter of the construction, positioned to capture the best sunlight throughout the day.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

The visual language of the facade balances the robustness of concrete with the lightness of slatted aluminum panels in wood, black, and graphite tones. The wooden volume that extends from the entrance gate into the interior stands out, enveloping the gourmet area and the sauna, in a refined "inside and outside" play.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

In the interior design, the choice of finishes reinforces the narrative of continuity. The porcelain tile floor with a burnished cement pattern covers the entire ground floor, unifying the look. The dining room, in turn, gains a scenographic atmosphere with the integral covering — floor, walls, and ceiling — of small travertine marble tiles.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

On the upper floor, dedicated to the intimate area, the tauari wood floor warms the bedrooms, while the custom-made joinery moves through nuances ranging from ebonized MDF to delicate light pink and mauve green.

Projeto do Studio Plano. (Fotos: Luiza Schreier | Produção visual: Lu Algharte/CASACOR)

All the furniture was selected exclusively for the project, prioritizing pieces that visually float and bring flexibility to the layout. On the living room balcony, a swing invites relaxation and reinforces the chic beach atmosphere. Inside, Brazilian design takes center stage: the iconic Vivi armchair, a creation by Sergio Rodrigues, rests imposingly next to the wine cellar, creating the perfect corner for contemplation. The upper floor also features a private balcony for the couple with a fireplace, while the rooftop houses a complete gym facing the exterior.

traduzido por: OPENROUTER