LuxMare is a project completed this year by architecture office Mário Martins Atelier and which consists of two contemporary houses that complement one another while managing to maintain their individuality. They’re like two peas in a pod, two separate parts of a set. They take the place of an old two-storey structure previously in very bad shape and another unfinished construction which occupied two large plots in Lagos, Portugal. The architects chose to get rid of everything old and to start fresh, creating two amazing houses that share a wonderful connection with the landscape.
The delicate curves mimic the topography creating a visual link between architecture and landscapeThe two houses are autonomous but look and feel like a pairCasa Lux sits on a higher level which allows it to frame the most amazing views of the ocean
The houses are autonomous, with both similarities and differences in their designs. Casa Mare occupies the lower plot and is completely surrounded by vegetation while Casa Lux takes full advantage of its elevation and captures the most amazing views. They both share a strong connection with the outdoors and include external features such as covered patios, marvelous gardens, poolside decks and even roof terraces. They’re also both defined by soft and elegant curves and the use of white plaster and wood to create clean and bright spaces with a Nordic-inspired aesthetic.
There are numerous voids and large openings throughout the two houses, each with a specific roleThe houses stand out, being quite different from many of the structures that surround themThe area is populated with isolated houses, many from the ’70s, which have large gardens around them. This project maintains a similar aestheticCasa Mare is the one placed on the lower level and surrounded by greenery. It has a roof terrace with panoramic viewsBy getting rid of the old structures and starting from scratch, the architects re-established the balance between architecture and landscapeThe curved edges and clean lines of the houses reference the surrounding landscape and the oceanCasa Lux has a fully-glazed ground floor volume which opens onto the swimming poolThe wavy lines are reminiscent of sand dunes and ocean wavesThe views are an important element which guided the entire design projectBoth houses take advantage of the panoramic views by welcoming them insideTheir interior designs are simple and focus around open floor plansFull-height windows and sliding glass doors bring the outdoors in without becoming overwhelmingSubtle Nordic hints are noticeable throughout the interior design, especially in the case of the private areasThe indoor living spaces seamlessly transition outside and maintain a strong relationship with their surroundingsThe plots follow the gentle slope and make everything look and feel very organic throughout the entire property
