oversized boulders and native trees determine footprint of timber pavilion in brazil

"Throughout the project, the design treats trees, rocks, and water as integral spatial elements. During construction, builders temporarily relocated the site's large boulders and later returned them to their original positions. In some cases, they cut and reused the stones as exterior paving. Responding to the topography, a horizontal ground floor pavilion, built in glued laminated timber, houses the main living areas."

"The layout allows the home to function both as a private residence and as a gathering place when hosting guests. The upper pavilion supports daily life with open and transparent living spaces, while the lower level provides more contained and intimate rooms. This dual organization balances seclusion and sociability without compromising either condition."

"Material choices reinforce this contrast. The elevated timber structure appears light and permeable, opening toward distant views. In contrast, the concrete base remains grounded and protective, partially concealed by the terrain. Each construction phase remains legible, clearly expressing how the building comes together through structural layers and material transitions."

Itupeva House in Brazil by UNA MUNIZVIEGAS responds to site topography through a two-level design that treats natural elements as integral spatial components. A horizontal timber pavilion on the ground floor contains main living areas, while reinforced concrete bedrooms embed into the slope below, forming a solid base resembling existing boulders. A swimming pool above the concrete plinth creates a reflective plane mirroring the forest. The layout balances private and social functions, with the elevated timber structure appearing light and permeable while the concrete base remains grounded and protective. Material choices and construction phases remain legible, expressing how structural layers and transitions define the building.

Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine