VH Residence by Sandra Sayeg is a Nature-Focused São Paulo House

Initially conceived to be extended over the years, the decision to carry out the entire project from the outset ensured greater constructive efficiency and comfort for future residents. The metal structure and steel deck system were chosen not only for their speed and precision in construction, but also for their aesthetic impact, giving lightness to the architectural composition.

The house is arranged in an “H” shape, a solution that allows all the spaces to open onto the garden, fostering a continuous relationship between the interior and exterior areas. The kitchen, one of the central spaces in the house, reflects the clients’ lifestyle: it is directly connected to the living and dining areas, the barbecue area and the garden, which includes a vegetable patch. The staircase to the upper floor functions as a translucent wine cellar, maintaining the visual permeability of the entire space. This fluid, integrated environment was designed to enhance social interactions and accommodate gatherings with friends and family – one of the owners’ top priorities.

Materiality plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of the project. A concise, natural palette was chosen, with wood as the standout element. The continuous ceiling in Tauari wood adds to the fluidity and warmth of the space. On the first floor, a pigmented concrete wall and a microcement floor create a unified aesthetic, reinforcing the contemporary language of the house. Meanwhile, Cumaru wood panels contrast with the metal structure, filtering the light and balancing privacy with visual openness. Finally, the exterior pergolas feature sections covered with glass and straw, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shade.

The spaces have been designed to ensure functionality while maintaining a sense of retreat. The four suites are located on the upper floor, including a bedroom planned for the couple’s first child. Circulation areas have been optimized to create dynamic common spaces, such as the upstairs office, which takes advantage of an underused area. The bathrooms follow the same logic of integration and efficiency, with features such as frosted glass shower enclosures that provide privacy without compromising the feeling of spaciousness.

The outdoor area is a natural extension of the architecture. The lush landscaping complements the striking presence of the pool, which has been positioned to the side to offer views from various points in the house. The terrace acts as an extension of the social area, reinforcing the perfect connection between the interior and exterior spaces.

The furniture selection followed an organic approach, allowing the residents, in partnership with Bossa Arquitetura, to curate pieces that reflected their personalities. The architecture dictated the layout, lighting and finishes, ensuring that the interiors embodied the essence of the project without excess.

The VH Residence is an example of Sandra Sayeg’s architectural practice, which is defined by the integration of space and landscape, the meticulous selection of materials and attention to the experience lived by its occupants. Every detail has been designed to provide comfort, functionality and a perfect connection between the house and nature.