Portuguese architectural firm Carlos Castañeira recently completed this impressive ecotourism destination. Suites float above the vines below. Located in picturesque vineyards in Arijo, Portugal, Adega da Quinta da Faisca is an idyllic setting for tourists seeking an authentic Portuguese experience that is eco-friendly, off the beaten track.
The combined suites form a single structure built on an existing vineyard site adjacent to the original country house. The new building was built on the only piece of terrain that could not be used for agriculture, taking great care not to disturb existing land while maintaining the spirit of sustainable design.
Perched on a series of diagonal steel beams, the center consists of a wooden structure on a reinforced concrete foundation built into the hillside. This unique foundation reduces the building footprint on land and also allows parts of the building to float above descending terrain. made of In contrast, the floor is made of cool slate tiles, and the distinctive zigzag roof and flash are made of zinc.
Carlos Castaneira
Perched atop endless vineyards, olive groves and almond trees, Adega da Quinta da Faisca takes advantage of the all-encompassing landscape below. The building houses his four apartments with a modular design that can be adapted to different requirements. Each apartment can interconnect with its neighbors, making it easy to accommodate large groups and families.
The property features an outdoor timber balcony, double-height angled ceilings, and a large open living room with oversized windows. The design and architecture of the space give guests the impression that the entire room is suspended in space, floating above the lush landscape below. As the architect describes it, its design seems to have soared into the air.
Carlos Castaneira
Connected to the living area is an open modern kitchen. The bathroom is hidden behind the kitchen block and the twin bedroom is adjacent to the kitchen area. A unique zig-zag roof design allows for extra-high ceilings and additional space on the mezzanine level. A tall loft area opens above the living area and houses the master bedroom.
Each apartment boasts a large timber deck overlooking the vineyards and rolling hills. A small stone terrace is located near the entrance on the other side of the apartment and beautifully overlooks the 10-meter (33-foot) outdoor pool and dining area.
Carlos Castaneira
Architect Carlos Castañeira says, “The delicious wine and rolling landscape are a reminder that the Douro River flows right below, and that is what caused this leap to open.” It’s not hard to build in a beautiful place, it’s already there, you just jump.”
Source: Carlos Castañeira via Archdaily
