Enclosing a large cork oak tree the three courtyard house by Miguel Marcelino is a product of a sunny climate and a perceptive view of nature. Located in Vila Nova de Santo Estêvão, Benavente, Portugal its defining feature is the way it uses a series of courtyards as outdoor rooms that also act as intermediate spaces to the landscape beyond.
The house is compact, built over two floors, but it is complimented by a good size plot. The first large courtyard encloses the cork oak tree, whilst the second is a patio for service. The third courtyard is a sliver of space that buffers, and through a large horizontal opening frames, the landscape beyond. The opening forms a portal leading to wide flight of steps down to a pool. Turning round to look back at the property, and the stairs give it an almost civic feel with a hint of bombast.
Gratitude to +mood.
Gratitude to +mood.