With a minimalist architecture, this stunning residence was completed last year (2011) by Mario Martins Atelier, a design studio in Portugal. The property, named the Colunata House, is located in the Barlavento region of Algarve, Portugal.
Set on the coast of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, the contemporary residence has a perfect orientation that ensures protection from the local winds, and also plenty of sun light, especially during the summer. The views are simply amazing, and the interior-exterior communication excellent.
With a central terrace, a lovely pool, and an inviting outdoor living area, this residence is like a small personal resort in a superb natural setting. The dominant color of the house is white, but this bright shade is permanently balanced by strongly contrasting accents of black. The result is truly impressive, as the photos below show.
Photos by: FG+SG
The black-and-white contrast is striking. How did the architects balance the minimalist aesthetic with the need for warmth in such an open coastal space? I’m curious about the materials used for that central terrace to withstand the Atlantic winds.
Thank you! We used locally sourced stone and timber cladding to add texture and warmth against the stark white walls. For the terrace, we selected high-density composite decking and stainless steel railings. These materials ensure durability against the Atlantic winds while maintaining that clean, minimalist aesthetic you noticed.