porto-based architect carlos castanheira has completed the extension of a sprawling residential property in central portugal. the overhaul of the ?barrocas house? involved the addition of two wings to the existing home, as well as a timber-clad pavilion located to the east of the main residence. the pavilion is positioned on the highest point of the property, sited among the pine trees that populate the site. the client asked for an isolated building that would serve as an autonomous living space filled with books, music, and even a model train set.

all images by fernando guerra
 
 
as the timber boards that clad the pavilion don?t reach the ground, the pavilion appears to levitate above the undulating terrain. a concrete stairway provides a sense of arrival with the structure designed to provide a contrast with the remainder of the home. internally, carlos castanheira carefully positioned the structure?s windows and two terraces to maximize daylight and views.
 
 
elsewhere, the architect extended the original house with two new wings that serve as a lounge and a bedroom respectively. the new living space has been designed to open the dwelling up to the surrounding landscape with a veranda that offer sweeping views. elevated on timber supports, the copper-roofed structure also provides shelter for cars to park beneath the open-air terrace. the bedroom, meanwhile, adapts its volume and roof to the existing structure, while simultaneously asserting its own personality...