Beach house full of plants blends into the surrounding native forest

The couple, a Brazilian woman and an Englishman, researched the entire coast of São Paulo until they found this 220 m² beach house full of plants on Maresias beach , in São Sebastião. The request to architect Ricardo Abreu , from CASACOR SP , was clear: they needed to bring the native forest into the house. "Interestingly, the original project did not allow for a direct relationship with the forest. The openings were only facing the side setbacks, and at the back, an extremely low roof with ceramic tiles blocked the view of the treetops", says the professional. On the ground floor, the entire space was integrated, creating a spacious, bright room that now faces the lush native vegetation . "We removed the roof at the back and created a large balcony, with a gourmet area and a spa under the treetops," explains Ricardo. All materials used sought to create a closer connection with nature, with the use of natural stones, ceramics and hydraulic tiles . On the interior floors, porcelain tiles provide practicality and all countertops were built with concrete and burnt cement to ensure a rustic look, without losing contemporary style. With the ground floor walls knocked down, new beams and metal structure pillars were strategically positioned to support the upper floor. The toilet and service area were moved to the front of the house.

" The predominant color in the house is undoubtedly green . On the facades, kitchen cabinetry, bathroom ceramic tiles and hydraulic tiles, the color predominates," says the architect. Plants invade the interior in staggered compositions of native bromeliads, lilies, ferns, pacovás and ficus . Heliconias, marantas and other herbaceous plants mix with mandacarus cacti and fruit trees such as cajá-manga . In the external area, cycad palms, raffia palms, areca palms and coconut palms reinforce the exuberance of the native trees. The decor is light and features a predominance of Brazilian handicrafts. Lamps made from banana fibers and basketwork accompany objects acquired from local artists. The furniture features vintage pieces that were scavenged and mixed with classic pieces, such as the Girafa chair by Lina Bo Bardi . The sisal fiber rug welcomes the living area and reinforces the simplicity sought in the project. In the kitchen , the dining table and benches came from London, pieces that the couple has carried with them since their first home in England.