Oeiras House by OODA, where architecture and topography merge seamlessly
The Oeiras House in Portugal stands as a striking example of how architecture can engage in a profound dialogue with topography. Designed by OODA, the project embraces the constraints of its site, utilizing the existing slope not as a limitation but as an integral element that shapes the architectural composition.
The residence is positioned strategically within the landscape, taking advantage of the elevated terrain to mitigate an undesirable environment while seamlessly integrating natural and artificial elements. The approach emphasizes a balance between geometric rationality and environmental sensitivity, reinforcing the notion that topography itself becomes the raw material for architectural expression.
At the heart of the Oeiras House design, a central patio acts as both a regulating and organizing element, bringing cohesion to the spatial arrangement. This void, enclosed on three sides, serves as a transitional space that unifies the different functions of the house. One side is dedicated to social activities, while the other accommodates private living spaces, both converging in a transparent and fluid manner that defines the entrance sequence.
The architectural mass, while appearing firmly rooted in the terrain, achieves a sense of levitation, allowing the natural landscape to flow uninterrupted beneath it. Vegetation extends into the core of the residence, reinforcing continuity between the built environment and its surroundings. A significant feature of the project is a scenic water element that enhances both lighting conditions and the sensory experience of the partially submerged entrance patio.
This pool counterbalances the enclosed nature of the space, introducing reflections and movement that contribute to the overall atmospheric quality. The interplay between solid and void, mass and transparency, creates a dynamic experience where architecture becomes an extension of the natural setting rather than a separate entity. The house’s transversal section introduces a tension between horizontality and diagonal movement, influenced by the sloping terrain.
The accessible rooftop further extends the functionality of the Oeiras House structure, offering additional space that interacts with the site’s natural contours. This layering of spaces, facilitated by varying levels of transparency, reinforces the conceptual narrative of the project. Materiality plays a crucial role in achieving this integration, with the choice of materials reinforcing the idea of an architecture that is both rooted in its context and transformative in its impact.
Photo credit: Fernando Guerra
