Patios of Petals: A Floral-Inspired Contemporary House
Nestled in the heart of Porto, Portugal, a city renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, stands the “Patios of Petals” – a two-story house that is a testament to contemporary design. Crafted by the visionary Sandra Micaela Casinha Atelier in 2023, this architectural marvel draws inspiration from the organic movement of flower petals, creating a harmonious blend of nature and modern living.
The house’s design is characterized by a large “U” glazing and an internal curved structural wall that, along with the staircase, forms the heart of the house. The upper floor, embraced by the petal-like structures, is accentuated by the use of three materials: white, aluminum, and glass. The lower floor, where the petals land, showcases a similar triad of materials: glass, aluminum, and wood. This careful selection of materials serves to highlight the main actor – the organicist white volume.
About Patios of Petals
The Poetry of Architecture and Interior Design
Fernando Pessoa once said, “They say that flowers are all words that the earth says.” In the realm of architecture and interior design, the “Patios of Petals” house embodies this poetic sentiment. Like a flower, this architectural marvel draws sustenance and protection from the sun, its structure gently touching the earth with a large “U” glazing (approximately 9.84 feet).
The Heart of the Home: Staircase as a Structural Core
The house’s interior is crafted around an internal curved structural wall, which, in conjunction with the staircase, forms the heart of the home. The staircase, a central element in the design, provides continuity between the floors, echoing the sinuous, curved lines of the structural wall.
Embracing Organic Movement: The Petal Design
The design’s organic movement is expressed through the flower petal-inspired upper floor, where openings and patios emerge naturally. To enhance their presence, the design employs a limited palette of three materials: white to outline the petals, aluminum, and glass. This approach lends the petals a more pronounced expression, giving them more “body”.
The Ground Floor: A Landing for Petals
The ground floor, primarily a large U-shaped glass, serves as the landing spot for the petals. Here, three “light” materials – glass, aluminum, and wood – are used with a singular purpose: to highlight the main actor, the organic white volume.
Fluidity and Open Space: The Interior Design
The interior of the house, much like the inside of a flower, is organized by a wall with curves and counter-curves. This design creates transitions and directs movement to different spaces, allowing for a fluid connection between areas. The floor is developed with an “open space” concept, but with distinct moments that provide autonomy and privacy.
The Master Suite: A Haven of Comfort
The house features three suites, each communicating with its patio that, with its rose petals, provides a comforting embrace. The master suite, in particular, is a haven of comfort with a four-poster bed, flanked by two wooden bedside tables and two wicker lamps.
A Palette of Pastels: The Interior Decor
The decor reflects the pastel and “raw” colors used in the architecture, with furniture that enhances the tranquility of the place. Natural materials, simplicity, and casual comfort are the keynotes of the design. The use of textiles and neutral colors, punctuated by pastel green accents on the chairs, emphasizes the color of the kitchen furniture and the living room wallpaper.
Touches of Nature: The Living Room
In the living room, a bamboo coffee table underscores the ever-present intention of nature. Bamboo and wicker lamps, wicker vases, and solid wood pieces adorned with dried flowers in fantastic colors from orange to lilac add to the natural ambiance. Occasionally, “old gold” is used for a sophisticated touch that awakens the senses.
The Service Bathroom: A Study in Contrast
The service bathroom features washbasins in “crude” tones, creating a striking contrast with the pendulum lamp and the mirror, both of which bear the presence of “old gold”. This sophisticated touch serves as a wake-up call, adding an unexpected element to the space.
A Princess’s Sanctuary: The Little Girl’s Room
The little girl’s room, a sanctuary for a beautiful princess, is equipped with a cozy bed and a full-length mirror. It faces a large patio, a space filled with light and soul, offering a serene view to its young occupant.
The Essence of ‘Patios de Petals’: A Harmony of Natural and Urban
The “Patios de Petals” house is a testament to the harmonious blend of urban landscape and natural inspiration. It’s an artificial interior experience that draws from the natural world, creating a space that is not just visually appealing but also emotionally resonant. It’s a home that’s waiting to be filled with laughter, dreams, joys, and flowers… many flowers…
Photography by Ivo Tavares Studio
Visit Sandra Micaela Casinha Atelier
- by Matt Watts
