A Series of Small Housing Units in Cidades, Portugal

This series of small housing units can be found in Cidades, Portugal. Designed by local architecture firm M-Arquitectos, the units are an addition to an existing house that was built in the 1950’s.

Set at on elevated site and overlooking the surrounding countryside, the three units are part of the rehabilitation of the site, and main house. The overall plot is 3,724 square feet (346 square meters), but M-Arquitectos dwellings look to be around 12-by-30 feet (3.7-by-9.1 meters).

The smaller houses are all identical both inside and out. Their contemporary and unusual form is part of an attempt to control the light that enters the building. The exteriors are clad vertically with timber siding, and they feature a number of windows, all of which can be boarded up with exterior panels.

On the inside, there’s an open plan living, dining and kitchen area that features a large wood-burning stove (the houses only source of heating). The kitchen is more of a kitchenette, tucked away in a corner with an under-counter fridge, sink and cooktop.

The bedroom can be found at the opposite end of the building, and it features a large window that looks out onto the back end of the property. Sandwiched between the living area and bedroom is the bathroom, which is finished with a toilet, bath/shower, sink and vanity unit.

The interior seems a little lifeless; white walls and wood floors, but it’s probably just because no one’s occupied them yet. It’s unclear what the houses are being used for from the architect’s description, although it seems likely that they’re holiday homes as part of a retreat.

For more retreats and small houses check out Sorte Hus, an affordable home designed for Denmark’s expensive economy. Or, this family home in Slovenia that gets a makeover.

Via ArchDaily
Photos: Paulo Goulart