BL House

© Beto Consorte

Architects: Studio Guilherme Torres
Location: Londrina, Brazil
Client: BL
Floor Area: 485 sqm
Project Year: 2007
Photographs: Beto Consorte


Adapting the house structure to a narrow lot in a condominium in Londrina, Brazil was the greatest challenge of this building designed by Guilherme Torres. In order to take advantage of the natural characteristics of the land in relation to its neighbours, the house was partially lowered in the social area, where it recedes 5m from the street. This receding provided the environs with abundance of natural light with the bonus of privacy in both the social and leisure areas.

© Beto Consorte

ground floor plan

The structures of the house hide their actual functions, making it look serene as well as impressive. Its elongated structure is parted by a wood box. Within the wood box one can find the stairwell and the main entrance on one side and the service area entrance on the other side. As the doors and the structure have been wainscoted, they become appropriately concealed in the composition. The garage has a gentle slope paved with stones, giving the structure an elegant look.

© Beto Consorte

Wood, stone and masonry work are conspicuous in the whole house. The structures were designed and built in with concrete and metal structures, which made the house lighter. The living area was sealed with glass and aluminium, yet integrating it with the swimming pool. The brick pillars were coated with sisal rope, material which is abundantly found in Brazil. The project allocates the spaces in a linear form, and all the bedrooms have French windows overlooking the leisure area. The home-theatre above the garage holds a winter garden providing the couple with privacy.