Refuge / Piacesi Arquitetos Associados

Architects:Piacesi Arquitetos Associados

Area:1442ft²

Year:2019

Photographs:Gustavo Xavier,Jomar Bragança

Manufacturers:AutoDesk,ACT 3D,Adobe,Arcelor Mittal,Balcony,Coral,Ozônio,Preall,Trimble Navigation

Lead Architects:Júnior Piacesi

Design Team:Flávia Lopes, Thales Pimenta, Letícia Pimenta, Raissa Tavares, Lucas Valois

Clients:Casa Cor Minas 2019

Engineering:Clarissa Pinto, Andreza Duarte

Landscape:Piacesi Arquitetos Associacos e Plante comigo

Collaborators:SV2 Engenharia, A.deArte, São Romão Móveis, Líder Interiores, Movelaria Olga, Elisa Atheniense, Trousseau, Deca.

City:Mangabeiras

Country:Brazil

In pursuit of references of the space, the architect planned different propositions to comply with who seeks connection with the soul, the nature and practicality. In 134m² (1442 square feet), being 57m²(613 square feet) of internal area, the refuge is projected over metallic structures and surrounded by  eucalyptus forest, suspended six meters (twenty feet) from the ground and with access through a ramp that takes the visitor to the location through a path between the trees. It was possible to adapt the architecture to contemporary times, leaving a striking authorial trace.

The Refuge is mirrored externally, as a glazing element that mimics the construction, giving the feeling of multiplication of the forest; glass, that connects the interior with nature of the surroundings; and a microclimatic tensioned net, which in addition to being sustainable, enables a curved closing without losing transparency. Glass, steel, concrete, leather and pebbles make up the portfolio of materials used, creating a harmonious atmosphere between the house and nature.

It was designed in an environment that could be built at any time by anyone. The reduced and well-planned space allows for the low cost of executing the space, in addition to the choice of metallic structure that streamlines the process and makes it more sustainable, with a smaller volume of rubble. Accessible, with large openings and wide circulation, it allows anyone to use the space with minor changes. Design and architecture are allies in this project, which has an architecture designed with every detail and functionality in mind.

“The intention was to bring the concept and lifestyle thatembrace nature, giving light to a universe less digitaland more peaceful. A real Refuge.”Júnior Piacesi

Project gallery

Project location

Address:Palácio das Mangabeiras, Belo Horizonte – Minas Gerais, Brazil