Small House in Portugal reconstructed by the Portuguese studio Branco del Rio Arquitectosa, a small house that, despite its size, is now not only functional but also comfortable to live in. The project is called House AA8, and its special feature is the use of flexible construction systems and materials typical of this region. The structure is made of concrete and wooden slabs, retains heat for a long time, and is well ventilated.
The houses in this area of Coimbra were originally designed to expand: built in the mid-20th century, they are small in size but have spacious backyards. So locals often took over part of the surrounding area. The architects at Branco del Rio Arquitectos continued this trend.
The first floor was expanded on both sides, adding living areas; a bedroom and a full bathroom were designed on the second floor. The house’s façade was decorated with bright yellow accents to connect the exterior with the interior, which is built on the contrast of sand-yellow elements and cream shades. The studio paid special attention to natural light: it floods the first floor from two sides, and on the second floor, it penetrates through an enlarged window opening.
