Isay Weinfeld a São Paulo-based design studio has designed the Casa d’Água House. Completed in 2003, this two-storey contemporary home is located in São Paulo, Brazil.

According to the architects: “A narrow pool runs alongside the contemporary Brazilian house, for the whole length of the lot: in the first half, large granite stones anchored to the bottom slab skip across the water surface forming a pathway to the central patio; further, it becomes a swimming lane that stretches to the back wall of the plot.

“The shape of the plot, long and narrow, led us to create a central patio dividing the building in two blocks, so as to allow good insulation in all rooms: they all face either north, east or west. Outdoors, thick natural-twine ropes make up a curtain that shadows the patio and filters the sunlight.

“Over four levels, all spaces are arranged according, mainly, to their functions: garage and mechanical rooms are placed on the basement floor; dining and living rooms, kitchen and laundry areas, on the ground floor; a private sitting room and bedrooms, on the first floor; and finally, a small office and terrace on the top floor.

“It was the clients’ wish that the house should not look, nor feel, ‘new’ to them. So we proposed that it be built with some elements taken from their farm, and they agreed. Thus, for instance, raw stones were brought in to cover the external walls; and old wood pieces to lay the bedroom flooring. They are all reference to the family’s living, history and special relation with nature and truly make this a luxury Brazilian home.”