Cafe House by TETRO Arquitetura: Poetic Tribute to Brazilian Serrado and Coffee

At the heart of the Brazilian serrado, the Cafe House by TETRO Arquitetura serves as a vibrant synthesis of architecture, culture, and landscape. Completed in 2023, the house spans 257 m² and is conceived as a poetic reflection of both natural surroundings and the cultural significance of coffee in Brazilian life.

Roots in Place and Culture

The Cafe House incorporates defining elements of the serrado: red earth, curved tree trunks, and expansive horizons. Coffee — a symbol of Brazilian hospitality and conversation — became the conceptual foundation of the project. Architects conveyed its essence through symbolic architectural language, posing the question: how can one express the sensory qualities of coffee — its earthy texture, aroma, and lightness — in built form?

The answer lies in the decisive contrasts of the house:

• Earth: Thick painted concrete walls anchor the house to the ground, embodying strength and durability.

• Air: Two fragile white slabs curve above the structure, seemingly floating weightless, symbolizing coffee's aroma and lightness.

This dialogue between mass and lightness creates a house that appears simultaneously stable and ethereal.

Spatial Composition

The house is divided into two main volumes: one public, the other intimate. Movement between them occurs through a corridor with earth-toned walls that enhances the sense of transition between public and private spheres.

Inside, an open layout promotes natural light and airflow, while carefully positioned openings frame views of the unchanged serrado landscape. Interiors maintain a minimalist palette, highlighting the dialogue between architecture and nature.

Integration with Nature

Respect for the site determined every stage of design. Natural topography was preserved, local trees were left standing, and a stepped garden added to connect vegetation between built volumes. The result is housing where architecture and landscape harmoniously blend, creating a living space rooted in authenticity and ecological respect.

Architecture as Poetic Experience

The Cafe House transcends functionality. Through its symbolic acts, it offers inhabitants a poetic bond with the earth and culture. Architecture reflects identity, memory, and a sense of belonging — proving that a house can be more than just a building; it can become a story.

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