The Embracing House: A Harmonious Renovation

Creating Beauty, Truth, and Value through Holistic Design

Inspired by the intangible qualities of a historic ruin, Pedro Quintela's renovation project, The Embracing House, breathes new life into an abandoned structure. With a focus on authenticity and simplicity, this residential house in Cascais, Portugal, showcases the architect's intuitive approach to design.

Quintela's design philosophy centers around listening to the site itself, allowing it to guide the transformation process. He believes that the true essence of architecture lies in its simplicity and authenticity, and this belief is reflected in The Embracing House. By infusing the renovation with the holistic morphology of the place, Quintela has created a space that harmoniously blends the popular and contemporary.

The renovation project took three years to complete, and the result is a stunning symbiosis between the old and the new. The intervention maintained the same dimensions as the original house, but the interior was completely redesigned to accommodate the desired program. The end result is a bright, spacious, and harmonious living space that exudes a sense of zen and cleanliness.

Quintela's design process goes beyond the physical aspects of the site. He delves into the intangible qualities, myths, legends, and humanity of the place, allowing them to shape his vision. This deep understanding of the site's context and history sets The Embracing House apart from other renovations.

One of the challenges Quintela faced was avoiding the imposition of architectural forms derived from other places. Instead, he aimed to contribute to the transformation and evolution of the site, appreciating its physical and social context. By embracing the spirit of the place, Quintela has created a design that is meaningful and authentic.

The Embracing House stands as a testament to Quintela's ability to create beauty, truth, and value through his intuitive design approach. This project has been recognized with an Iron A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category, highlighting its practicality, innovation, and adherence to professional standards. The Embracing House is a true masterpiece that showcases the power of holistic design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Pedro Quintela
Image Credits: Giorgio Bordino & Ricardo Oliveira Alves | Architecture Photography
Project Team Members: Pedro Quintela
Project Name: The Embracing House
Project Client: Pedro Quintela


The Embracing House IMG #2
The Embracing House IMG #3
The Embracing House IMG #4
The Embracing House IMG #5
The Embracing House IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant