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The Marvilla House, an exceptional project by Atelier José Andrade Rocha, reimagines a historic Portuguese townhouse as a modern sanctuary, seamlessly integrating contemporary design while preserving traditional elements.
Undertaken during the pandemic, the transformation reflects a newfound appreciation for spaces that encourage connection, relaxation, and a harmonious blend with nature.
From the street, the original façade has been respectfully maintained, offering a subtle hint of the transformation within. At the rear, however, the extension introduces a new layer to the building’s story, presenting a fresh, contemporary addition that harmonizes rather than contrasts with its historical roots. This renovated rear façade opens onto a regenerated garden—a vital feature that prioritizes sun, earth, water, and leisure, transforming the outdoor space into a retreat that resonates with the essence of tranquility and renewal.
Inside, a restrained yet expressive palette is employed, blending conventional materials with carefully chosen colors to create a soothing atmosphere. Wooden door frames and window shutters painted in a delicate green hue subtly echo throughout the house, poetically uniting various rooms in a seamless flow. This soft green reappears in subtle details across the interior, infusing the spaces with a calm, organic warmth.
A striking green steel spiral staircase serves as both a functional and visual centerpiece, connecting the lower and upper floors. It links private areas on the top two floors with the social spaces below, creating an artistic yet practical focal point. At ground level, a generous window spans the length of the open-plan living area and kitchen, allowing the space to open fully to the garden. This design element fosters a vibrant and adaptable environment, inviting fresh air and natural light to flow freely through the space, enhancing gatherings and social interaction in an inviting setting.
The material choices—structural wood panels treated with green oil, bluish industrial-style flooring, painted steel sheet, Sintra limestone, and river pebbles—are thoughtfully selected for both their aesthetic and tactile qualities. These elements contribute to a cohesive environment that is modern yet grounded, balancing the building’s history with the architect’s vision of comfort and connectedness.
The Marvilla House exemplifies a refined approach to residential architecture, where every detail, color, and texture is considered in harmony with the purpose of the space. This transformation goes beyond preserving a historic façade, creating a contemporary oasis that celebrates tradition and embraces the natural environment. In doing so, it embodies a space designed for relaxation, connection, and a renewed appreciation for the fundamentals of home.
