- Interior
Casa Angra is a remarkable renovation project of a summer residence, designed to perfectly suit the lifestyle and wishes of a family. This family, a couple with two children, currently lives in a flat whose interior was also designed by Studio Arthur Casas. Their wish was to adapt their new home to their specific needs. In the interior design, Arthur Casas and his team had great freedom in selecting furnishings. They chose handicrafts and artworks by Brazilian artisans, such as the apostle cup by Mestre Nicola that stands in the hall, and used natural materials such as wood, ceramics and straw to complement the designer furniture. A mix of contemporary international and national pieces can be found, combined with iconic classics and furniture designed by Arthur Casas himself.
From the outset, it was clear that the renovation needed to go beyond just an aesthetic update. The aim was to rethink the existing structure while maintaining the integrity of the original design. Changes to the facades were carefully planned to maximise views of the ocean and Ilha Grande, a local landmark. Inside, the emphasis was on creating a better flow between social spaces, as the owners like to host family and friends. Every possible element of the landscape was incorporated into the design, and where this was not possible, alternative solutions were devised. Existing rough rocks, courtyard gardens, skylights and pergolas were cleverly integrated to enhance the connection with nature, from natural light to greenery. This approach created an immersive experience for residents, with attention to textures, perspectives and spatial perception. 
A special aspect of Casa Angra is its access by water. From the pier, a path, created by botanist Ricardo Cardim, leads through a lush landscape of native plants that overflow into the vegetation of the Atlantic Forest. This approach is also reflected in the interior gardens, which bring a touch of the forest inside. The house is spread over five split levels, offering an ingenious solution to efficiently accommodate the extensive programme of spaces. The first floor houses the swimming pool, the gastronomic area, an outdoor terrace, the wine cellar and three guest suites. Half a floor below provides space for the gym, games room, sauna and massage room. The basement is specially designed for a professional cinema, with complex technical requirements such as structural reinforcement and robust retaining walls due to its proximity to the sea and groundwater level.
From the pier, a path, created by botanist Ricardo Cardim, leads through a lush landscape of plants overflowing into the Atlantic Forest.
The upper floor is a mix of social, private and functional spaces. The social part includes a living room, dining room and an outdoor terrace, ideal for alfresco dining. The private part comprises the master suite with a home office and the children's suites. Functional areas such as the kitchen, laundry room and staff quarters are cleverly distributed throughout the level, with additional space on a mezzanine level. The highest level of the house allows access through the condominium, which also integrates a car garage. Solar energy, generated by photovoltaic panels, provides more sustainable water heating. The façade of Casa Angra plays a crucial role in connecting it to its surroundings. Rough stones from the region are arranged horizontally and form a dialogue with the rocky hill on which the house is located. Wood is another important material, both on the outside, with decking, roofing and mashrabiyas providing both privacy and visibility for the rooms, and inside in the floors, panels and carpentry. A special porcelain model designed by Studio Arthur Casas for Italian manufacturer Refin was used for the rest of the floors. Large glass windows let in natural light and provide visual openness. The traditional ceramic tile roof, combined with a straw ceiling, creates a harmonious contrast with the modern look of the building. 
Photography by Fran Parente
Text by Celien Hemelaer