The Terrazzo Apartment, a masterpiece created by Studio Arthur Casas, reflects the cosmopolitan lifestyle and refined tastes of its owners, who divide their time between Rio de Janeiro and Angola. The brief was simple yet ambitious: create a functional retreat in São Paulo that embraces the owners’ unique aesthetic vision and specific lifestyle needs. She, a professional chef, and he, a lover of spacious, fluid design, guided the project by sharing an appreciation for refined materials, thoughtful craftsmanship, and minimalist finishes. Studio Arthur Casas created an environment that is not only practical for everyday use, but also feels like a timeless work of art.
The apartment’s floor, a specially designed Terrazzo, is the heart of the design. Studio Arthur Casas took inspiration from the Venetian style of Carlo Scarpa’s famous Olivetti showroom in Venice. The floor is a refined play of cement and marble fragments, arranged in precise, orthogonal geometric patterns that create a visual rhythm. Although the composition appears rhythmic and harmonious, there is a subtle irregularity in the finish that gives the space an artisanal charm. This floor extends through the main social areas of the apartment, creating a fluid connection between the different zones. More than just a floor, the Terrazzo is a work of art that emphasises the balance between tradition and modernity, adding a unique character that is rare in Brazilian architecture. In the kitchen, a stainless steel cooking island takes centre stage, a tribute to the chef in the home. The island contrasts beautifully with the minimalist wooden cabinets, which subtly hide all the appliances to ensure a clean look. This harmony is enhanced by the integration of technology: from lighting to sound and automation, everything is subtly built into the ceiling. This lowers the height of the room slightly, but at the same time adds warmth and coziness through the wooden ceiling. Acoustic solutions provide a perfect balance between functionality and comfort, where the sound resonates in a subtle way without drowning out the space. 
The floor is a refined play of cement and marble fragments, arranged in precise, orthogonal geometric patterns
The “no-light” concept plays a key role in the apartment: lamps and fixtures are fully integrated into the ceiling, providing only a subtle and focused light without being intrusive. This creates a calm atmosphere in which the artworks – carefully selected by the couple – naturally draw attention. The famous Tucroma chairs, made of leather and metal, surround the dining table and encourage interaction, while a painting by Beatriz Milhazes and a mirrored artwork by Anish Kapoor give life and depth to the interior. The art collection that adorns the apartment is an essential part of the design. A sculpture by Túlio Pinto greets visitors in the entrance hall, while a work by Krajcberg enlivens the living room. The first seating area is dominated by iconic furniture pieces such as the Serpentine Sofa by Holly Hunt, the Ghost Armchair in glass (Fiam), and vintage chairs from the Liceu de Artes e Ofícios. These pieces of furniture are beautifully complemented by the colourful Ettore Side Table, designed by Arthur Casas himself, and the Lava Stone Tables by Maison Gerard. The lighting - including the Lune floor lamps by Ecart - accentuates this space and offers a perfect light display to admire the art. 
The home cinema offers an intimate setting with the ExtraSoft Sofa by Living Divani, which perfectly transcends the boundaries between the rooms thanks to its modular design. The TV is subtly incorporated into a mirrored wall, making it disappear when switched off, thus preserving the tranquility of the design. Combined with the warm Karuselli armchairs by Artek, a space is created that feels both cosy and luxurious. A former spare room has been transformed into a stylish home office, an important space given the increasing need for a workspace at home. The Jambu desk, again designed by Arthur Casas, combined with the iconic Pollock chair, creates an elegant workspace. The desk faces a wall with Terrazzo wall covering, which is a nod to the floors in the social part of the apartment. Ceramic artworks by Kimi Nii and Akinori Nakatani add personality and creativity, while sliding doors ensure privacy and flexibility. In the transition from the social to the private part of the apartment, the Terrazzo floor changes to warm European oak, creating a serene and comfortable atmosphere. The master suite exudes luxury and tranquility. A wooden sculpture by Brazilian artist Tunga serves as the focal point of this space, which is otherwise decorated in soft earth tones. The suite features a double closet and a bathroom with separate facilities, for added privacy and comfort. The second suite, intended for occasional visits from their daughter, is a refined and intimate space. A wall of photographs by British photographer Terry O’Neill creates a personal and expressive decor. Design pieces such as the Perch Coat Stand by Nendo and the Lurdes desk by Arthur Casas complement this room, providing a balance between aesthetics and functionality. 
The apartment is fully equipped with cutting-edge technology that supports the residents’ lifestyle without disrupting the aesthetics. Automation and sensor-controlled lighting are subtly incorporated, allowing technology and design to seamlessly merge. The result is a home where minimalism and luxury come together, with every detail contributing to the timeless appeal of the interior. Terrazzo Apartment is an oasis of tranquility, sophistication and modern comfort in the heart of São Paulo, where the vision of Studio Arthur Casas comes to life. It is a space where art and functionality merge to create an environment that is as practical as it is inspiring, offering residents a unique experience every time they return to their Brazilian retreat."
Photography by Fran Parente
Text by Celien Hemelaer