VASCO VIEIRA ARCHITECTS - The remarkable works in Quinta do Lago

Founded 22 years ago, Vasco Vieira Arquitetos is recognized nationally and internationally, and its history is filled with numerous awards and distinctions. Specializing in the creation of unique and contemporary architectural solutions, ranging from luxurious private homes to expansive eco-resorts, Vasco Vieira Arquitetos' portfolio also includes hotels, restaurants, spas, and commercial spaces, all designed with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence.

For almost 20 years, Vasco Vieira Arquitetos has been working on projects in Quinta do Lago, Algarve. With over 30 completed projects, many are significant, not only for the studio but also for the architectural evolution of the Quinta do Lago resort, located near the Ria Formosa, now one of the greatest contemporary symbols of luxury tourism in our country. Villas&Golfe highlights some of these projects in this issue, which intoxicate and make you sigh.

DM1 House

It was Vasco Vieira Arquitetos' first project in Quinta do Lago, built at a time when there were very few modern and contemporary architecture projects in the resort and surrounding area. The house's concept was developed to maximize the site's qualities, particularly its sun exposure and views—and the beauty of this concept is evident. The L-shaped house features all living spaces with direct access to the outdoors, as well as covered outdoor spaces that serve as an extension of the interior, with dining and living areas. The pool, located on the south side of the lot to maximize sun exposure, is the focal point of the outdoor patio.

This work sparked greater interest and appreciation of contemporary modernist architecture, having had a driving effect on the emergence of modern, higher-quality works in Quinta do Lago.

BK House

A landmark for Vasco Vieira, this work reflects the essence of his architecture. With a very simple design, a linear volume extending from east to west almost the entire length of the lot, the north facade completely blind and the south facade completely transparent, with all the social spaces (living room, dining room, kitchen), and the bedrooms facing south, this work enchants with its fantastic views of the lake and the sea.

Above this volume, another, perpendicular, "floating" above the main volume, houses the house's master bedroom, also overlooking the lake and sea. The materials, such as exposed concrete, were almost pioneering for the time.

IR House

The IR House is notable for its predominance of curved, organic forms. At the owner's request, who didn't want straight lines or rectangular volumes, Vasco Vieira designed a house devoid of any straight lines, while still maintaining the essence of the studio's architectural language. The fluidity of the interior spaces and the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces are a hallmark of Vasco Vieira Arquitetos' projects.

Text: Carla Martins
Photos: Marcelo Lopes