Tropical Brazilian Retreat Takes Simple Materials To A New Level

The tropical Sao Sebastiao in Brazil has its own White House. We’re talking about this beautiful private residence built here by Studio MK27 in collaboration with Eduardo Chalabi. The studio creates luxurious projects since the 80s and is currently comprised of a team of 28 architects who work with various collaborators to make their clients’ dreams become reality. Their constant goal is to find new ways to exploit simplicity and to make the most of the surroundings.

White House in Brazil sunset view

The White House was completed in 2014 and is situated on a beautiful plot on the Northern coast of Sao Paulo, surrounded by lush vegetation. The tropical location and the site’s proximity to the beach offer numerous advantages such as the extraordinary views.

White House in Brazil enclosed by curtains
White House in Brazil lush surroundings

At the same time, the tropical location raises a series of problems. The architects had to take the location and the conditions on the site into consideration when planning the orientation and organization of the floor plan as well as when choosing the materials to be used throughout.

White House in Brazil back yard pool

White House in Brazil infinity edge pool

The studio decided on a combination of wood, concrete and white aluminum, materials which are able to withstand the effects of the sea air and which also allowed the architects and designers to materialize their vision of tropical minimalism combined with Brazilian modernism.

White House in Brazil jacuzzi tub

All the social spaces are situated on the ground floor. Full height glass walls eliminate the visual barrier between indoor and outdoor spaces, connecting the zones and exposing the living spaces to the lush gardens and views of the sea.

White House in Brazil outdoor social area

Sliding glass doors open the interior spaces to the outdoors, connecting them to a terrace protected by the cantilevering building. Out here an outdoor lounge space and al fresco dining space were organized. The terrace then extends and forms the poolside area with its built-in outdoor Jacuzzi.

White House in Brazil indoor social area

In addition to the glass barriers, the social areas are also connected to the exterior through a series of perforated wood walls. These pivoting walls offer shade without blocking the breeze and can even be opened to reveal the beauty of the garden.

White House in Brazil living area
White House in Brazil sitting area

The living room, kitchen and dining area share the same floor plan. They’re all very bright and open spaces, characterized by simplicity and modern elegance. The dining space is a fresh and airy space, defined by a combination of white, light gray, wood and neutral accents. The pendant lights hanging above the table coordinate with the perforated walls.

White House in Brazil perforated walls adjacent to glass
White House in Brazil wood walls opened

The living area is characterized by earthy neutrals and sculptural accents. A set of suspended stairs seem to just disappear into the ceiling just above the sofa. Their clean lines and angles are complemented by smooth curves featured by the oval coffee table and the rounded accent chair and side table.

White House in Brazil perforated wood walls
White House in Brazil pivoting wood walls
White House in Brazil wood walls closeup

The kitchen is a separate space. A textured gray accent wall coordinates with a matching floor, white ceiling and solid wood doors. A large island sits at the center of the room, adding a warm touch of color to the space.

White House in Brazil kitchen

A glass wall separates this space from a side garden but at the same time offers it abundant natural light needed for the fresh and bright ambiance characteristic to modern interiors.

White House in Brazil dining zone
White House in Brazil dining table
White House in Brazil dining room view

The upper level is where the bedrooms are situated. It’s a private zone which continues the light, modern and balanced design direction featured by the social areas. Both the bedrooms and their bathrooms have warm and inviting décors thanks to the wooden floors and overall simple and sophisticated design details.

White House in Brazil upper level wood floor
White House in Brazil upper level rocking chair

There’s also a third level. It’s actually the roof. Up here a terrace with a green garden offer inhabitants the opportunity to admire the magnificent views without any interruptions.

White House in Brazil bathroom
White House in Brazil bathroom shower

Access to the roof terrace is through a set of stairs that lead up to an opening in the ceiling.

White House in Brazil suspended staircase
White House in Brazil roof terrace access