Brazilian House Rises Above The Landscape To Enjoy the Ocean Views

Set in the idylic Rio de Janeiro, Casa AL is the private residence of Brazilian television host Alex Lerner. It was built into the hillside, in a location that the client and the architects of Studio Arthur Casas chose together.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

One of the main priorities was to allow the house to capture the stunning views of the ocean. However, because of the considerable slope and the tall building between the land and the shore, that proved to be a challenge.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The solution for the problem was to relocate the entrance, the social areas and the infinity pool on the middle level of the three-storey structure.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

This way the incredible scenery can be admired without any obstructions and it feels like the ocean is at their doorstep.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The middle storey lines up with the ground level at the rear of the site and opens out to a raised terrace with panoramic views of the surroundings. Large sliding glass panels separate the internal spaces from the external areas but, if desired, they can become one and the same zone.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

This level houses the social areas of the house such as the open kitchen and the dining area for 10. You can catch a glimpse at the way the regional landscape has influenced the choice of materials and the design. The stone walls are a really beautiful accent, especially combined with the wooden flooring.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

A set of floating wooden stairs connect the middle level to the two other floors.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The views are breathtaking so the living areas had to be aligned in order to take full advantage of them. At the lower level, the glass panels lead out to a grassy garden.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The master bedroom and a spa are located within the smaller upper level. This is a timber-clad structure, designed like this to provide contrast. The stone walls of the storeys below make the transition smooth and stylish.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape
Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

An open terrace with timber flooring is oriented towards the horizon. It’s a raised terrace which incorporates a built-in tub and a relaxing lounge area.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The guest bedroom is not lacking gorgeous views either. It features a floor-to-ceiling glass wall overlooking the ocean and a simple design with casual-chic details.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The minimalist bathroom design features an all-white interior with the exception of the wooden floor which adds a little bit of warmth to the space. Large mirrors add depth and dimension to the room and the strategically designed lighting system emphasizes the breezy and fresh look.

Al Rio de Janeiro residence geometric shape

The 5,200 square foot house was built with a selection of materials chosen to reflect the regional landscape: quarry stone and locally-sources teak wood which are both resistant to weather variations and erosion.