respecting cultural heritage

The intervention aimed to reclaim the natural beauty of the rural property located in Montemor-o-Novo Portugal avoiding a conventional approach by liberating the land. Designed by Aires Mateus + João and Andreia Rodrigues, this was achieved through the construction of three complementing structures. The first step was the restoration of the house, acknowledging and respecting its cultural heritage, by highlighting the natural qualities associated with this place.

The second structure introduces the element of water in the form of a swimming pool, a square in the middle of the countryside, reminiscent of the topography of a beach.

The third structure, in the process of being built, takes the shape of a square, labyrinth-like, walled garden. It will comprise of one hectare of interconnected areas, housing an array of cultivated flowers and vegetables, as well as relevant agricultural structures to the area. The garden will display a palette of visual and sensory experiences, combining and juxtaposing elements to guide visitors through the paths.