Arthur Casas - House in Iporanga

Arthur Casas

House in Iporanga

Thanks to Arthur, Kelen and the team at Arthur Casas, I’ve received an early Christmas present to share with you all. The Immaculate “House in Iporanga” and a new addition to tags, Architect’s Own Houses.

“I always wanted a house in the middle of the forest, in a place where I could relax and recharge my energy”, says Arthur.



In the form of two large symmetrical cubes embracing an open space, this house was idealised as his dream house. Arthur’s aim was interiors in total synergy with exteriors. Bringing the outside in are 11 meter floor to ceiling glass windows, on both ends of the open central space. Cumaru wood paneling runs from top to bottom in an attempt to match and blend in with is beautiful surroundings “…as if this were ever 100% possible” admits Arthur.

As the Cumaru extends into the house, sterile white stucco contrasts, highlighting the wood’s warm color. This simple brown and white palette provides a nice canvas for interesting/artistic furnishings. Sleek, utilitarian and functional the kitchen table extends from the hob like a white diving board into the main living area. It’s mimicked by an outdoor table linked to the BBQ on the shaded side of the deck. Back inside, the seating area is centralised to be shaded from the summer sun, shining in through the east and west doors of this huge breeze space. You may note the lack of paintings and no flat screen on the white walls, the surround flora and fauna more than make up for this.



“The Atlantic forest is in my opinion comes before the sea, the beaches, the bikinis, football and carnival, it’s the great Brazilian landscape!” comments Arthur.

Contrasting with the thick chaotic nature of the forest the house is simple, symmetrical, and easy to take in. The absence of partitions amplifies the house’s integration with its surroundings and adds grandeur to the minimalist living area. A large terrace borders the house, functioning as a belvedere to observe the surrounding untouched Atlantic Rain Forest, and a partition between natural and constructed. Stepping down, the infinity edged pool seems to pour out into the thick vegetation.





Private rooms are tucked into the surrounding cubes. Upstairs is accessed by floating thin Cumaru sleepers that lead to an ultra thin profile catwalk. To the left: a guest bedroom and private living room. To the right: the master with en suite. Downstairs are the kitchen and maids quarters to the left, guest bedroom and office to the right. The office features two huge picture windows east and south, Distracting? Perhaps more of an inspiration on the days Arthur works from home.








Architect: Arthur Casas
Protect Completed: 2005
Location: Iporanga, SP, Brazil
Material: Concrete and Cumaru

via: www.arthurcasas.com.br