CORE architects has completed the refurbishment of a beach house in portugal?s algarve region. the building, called ?villa ah? is positioned on a softly sloping site within a forest of iberian pine trees, benefiting from views to the ocean. the brief from the client set a specific vision for the house. it should retain and emphasize its rough character while also inviting the beautiful natural light into each and every space.

all images © alexander bogorodskiy
 
 
the CORE team began by adding a few adjustments inspired by the principles of feng shui, such as centering the entrance door and making it north-facing. in addition, the design revitalized an existing, yet neglected, patio, making it part of the kitchen area and a visual extension of the smallest bedroom. the requirements for the layout were very clear: the client wanted to extend the amount of space in the new home to double the area of the living space with a two-story extension. open-space living, as well as connecting inner and outdoor space, were some of the key design priorities.
 
 
the client also prioritized the use of authentic materials and appliances over modern or high tech finishes. rustic natural stone and wood was therefore specified for the flooring, rough linen and wood for furniture and interiors. old fashioned toilets, with high tanks and chain to pull the water, installed light switches, and rustic metal stands for the heavy natural stone wash-basins contributed the rustic charact...