Designed by Estúdio AMATAM, the Quinta do Desembargador House is situated in the suburban landscape of Almada, Portugal. Completed in 2023, this building maximises the potential of its compact lot with a strategic layout and adaptable features. The design includes a double-height living room, openings for natural light, and the potential for future expansion.
Designed by Estúdio AMATAM, the Quinta do Desembargador House is a response to the unique challenges posed by its suburban landscape in Almada, Portugal. According to the Lisbon-based studio, the allotment sits within a suburban environment shaped by evolving social and urban dynamics. This setting has resulted in a compact built environment that significantly influences the architecture and overall territory.
Characterised by small lots and compact constructions that lack a strong connection with outdoor spaces, the allotment presented certain limitations. “However, it is precisely within these constraints that the most innovative solutions can emerge,” said Estúdio AMATAM.
The studio aimed to create what is at first appearance a compact and conventional structure. “However, as one explores the interior, this perception gives way to an experience of expansive and intricately designed spaces where solar orientation plays a key role in the overall design,” it added.
The home’s entrance significantly reduces unnecessary internal circulation, “acting as the central hub that governs the layout and hierarchy of spaces”, according to the designers. Presenting a cohesive rhythm, the north-facing left side of the home hosts essential facilities such as the restroom, office and laundry area. On the right side, the kitchen and living room are oriented toward the south, merging in an open-concept layout where the living area boasts a double-height ceiling.
The studio said the layout “extends the interior experience to the outside” through a full-width porch that is complete with a barbecue and outdoor seating area directly connected to the private rear patio. Multiple openings carved out in the second-floor slab and roof add natural light to the living space.
Bedrooms are situated on the upper floor, accessed by an adjacent staircase, allowing the residents to view the living space unobstructed at double height. The layout is also adaptable, allowing for the addition of another bedroom, the studio explained, meaning this would accommodate a growing household without needing to change the current exterior structure of the building.
“The adaptability was a key part of the design concept, demonstrating that buildings can be created to allow for expansion based on the residents’ needs without altering the predetermined exterior volume that fits in with the urban environment of the neighbourhood,” said Estúdio AMATAM.
The studio proposed the use of white-enamelled ceramic tiles on the ground floor facade, while thermo-modified wood slats are used in the entrance area to enhance the home’s visual appeal. The second floor is clad in fine sanded plaster painted in white, creating the illusion of a volume “resting on a solid foundation”.
Inside, what is described as a “monochromatic mud tone” material palette is applied, in reference to the colour of Lisbon’s soil. This is enlivened by a record storage wall that is painted dark green and commands a visual presence within the living space.
This scheme resulted in a building with “clean, well-proportioned lines” which, according to the studio, represents an elegant and “cost-effective solution“. “Setting it apart from the surroundings, the house exudes a unique charm due to its distinct shapes and materials, making it a compelling and distinctive choice.”
