Caldiera House by Filippe Pina in Vila Nova de Foz Côa, Portugal

Project: Caldiera House
Architects: Filippe Pina
Location: Vila Nova de Foz Côa, Portugal
Area: 2906 sq ft
Year: 2021
Photography by: Ivo Tavares Studio

Caldiera House by Filippe Pina

Located in the historic center of Vila Nova de Foz Côa, this project focuses on the renovation of a building constructed at the end of the 19th century, which was transformed into a single-family home where historical architectural features have been adapted to modern living conditions. The southern facade has over time undergone changes depending on the needs of previous owners, various renovations and accompanying structures, without architectural continuity with the original building. However, slate thresholds are highlighted as the main finish on the slate masonry.

Based on these two notable elements (slate and slate tiles), the space and façade are reimagined while preserving traditional construction methods, aiming to emphasize the back side facing south and make it the new main façade of the residential house. Without neglecting the historical value of remaining sections, existing granite mill elements and masonry are restored on the northern and spring sides. New windows open to the south, leaving slate ruins, outer walls, and natural colors exposed for the inhabitants inside.

Structurally, traditional solutions were chosen using natural materials such as lime for facades, wooden frames, wooden floors, cork insulation on the floor, and the use of slate thresholds. Programmatically, the house is organized into two levels. The main entrance is through the southern side at ground level. On this floor, all public areas are distributed in one connected space, limited only by previous internal walls made of slate. On the second floor, three quarters are arranged symmetrically and rotationally, where meeting points exist within a wide space for typical regional natural landscapes.

- Photos and project description provided by Ivo Tavares Studio

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