The architecture of Casa 28 presents itself as a harmonious extension of the arid and lush Cerrado landscape. Conceived as an urban retreat, the residence was commissioned by a family seeking tranquility and a connection with nature, located just ten minutes from the National Congress of Brasília.
Project Name: House 28
Studio Name: Lamas design
Site Area: 7000 Sq. m
Built Up Area: 700 Sq. m.
Status: Built
Image Credits: Haruo mikami
The vast 7,000 m² area allowed for the fluid distribution of the 750 m² construction throughout the terrain. The house’s volumetry is interwoven with gardens, while generous wooden frames ensure abundant natural lighting and a total integration experience with the landscape. As one moves through the residence, different perspectives unfold, highlighted by spaces of varying heights, establishing a striking spatial hierarchy. Extensive walls coated with polymeric mortar define the spaces fluidly, while strategically positioned openings in all directions enhance the connection between the living areas.
The windows were carefully oriented: large spans predominantly follow the east-west axis, while the walls align with the north-south direction. This arrangement creates a dramatic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, offering stunning scenery during sunrise and sunset, as well as framing unique views of the landscape.
The bedrooms, independent and facing east, ensure privacy for the residents. Each of the three suites features a veranda and a metallic pergola for climbing plants. The large window frames, when opened, not only enhance ventilation and natural lighting but also serve as seating for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The material palette reinforces the connection with the Cerrado: the hydraulic tile flooring and walls coated with fulget evoke the earthy tones typical of the region, while the wooden frames and ipe ceiling intensify the sense of belonging to the location. The metallic roof structure and corten steel pergolas discreetly blend into the vegetation, reinforcing the fusion between architecture and the natural landscape.
Decorative elements were also designed to balance aesthetics and functionality. Three hydraulic tile rugs, featuring geometric and colorful patterns, were installed in strategic areas where conventional fabric rugs would be impractical, such as the entrance, kitchen, and dining room.
Near the veranda, under the shade of a majestic jatobá tree, lies the rectangular swimming pool, clad in Espírito Santo white marble. Designed as a space for contemplation and socializing, the pool includes a bench along its entire length and is flanked by a wooden deck.
Casa 28 adopts a mixed structure, combining concrete pillars with a metallic roof. Sustainability was a key principle of the project: rainwater collected from the roof is directed to an underground reservoir and used for garden irrigation during the dry season. Additionally, solar panels ensure year-round water heating for both the residence and the pool. Casement windows in all rooms enable constant cross-ventilation, eliminating the need for air conditioning.
The interior of the house reflects a playful, comfortable, and relaxed spirit, with pieces designed by architect Samuel Lamas and icons of national and international design, such as Sergio Rodrigues, Joaquim Tenreiro, Geraldo de Barros, Jorge Zalszupin, Jean Gillon, Lúcio Costa, Lina Bo Bardi, the Campana Brothers, Vico Magistretti, Achille Castiglioni, Antonio Bonet, Charles Eames, and Charles Pollock.
The landscaping was conceived as an extension of the native vegetation, featuring Cerrado trees and clusters of flowering shrubs throughout the year, attracting birds and reinforcing the house’s integration with nature. In the central garden, an imposing Eritrina Mulungu, known as the coral tree, provides a spectacular display of colors, spreading a carpet of red flowers at the entrance of the residence.
