Loungueira House: A Compact Residential Project in Funchal
Pontoatelier replaces a fragile structure with a modern, compact home in Portugal.
1Project Site Demolition
The Loungueira House project in Funchal, Portugal, commenced with the complete demolition of a pre-existing, fragile structure. Pontoatelier managed the site transformation to accommodate a new, compact residence for a family. This initial phase was essential to clear the site for a more robust and efficient architectural footprint.
2Defining Inhabitable Footprint
Architects Ana Pedro Ferreira and Pedro Maria Ribeiro focused on defining the largest possible inhabitable footprint for the 90-square-meter site. The design process strictly respected required setbacks while ensuring the new structure integrated seamlessly into the plot. This spatial planning was critical to balancing density with the site's specific regulatory constraints.
3Preserving Natural Elements
A key design constraint during the planning phase was the preservation of an existing guava tree on the property. The architects prioritized this natural feature, allowing it to influence the building's final orientation and layout. This decision highlights a commitment to site-specific design that values existing vegetation over maximizing total buildable area.
4Structural Organization Strategy
Following the definition of the site limits, the house was organized as a clear and continuous structure. This approach ensures that the 90-square-meter interior remains functional and cohesive for the residents. By maintaining a continuous flow, the design team successfully mitigated the challenges typically associated with building on compact, constrained residential plots.
5Architectural Team Coordination
The project was executed by Pontoatelier, with coordination led by Ana Pedro Ferreira and Pedro Maria Ribeiro. Miguel Carvalho served as a key member of the project team, contributing to the final realization of the home. Their collaborative effort ensured that the 2026 completion date was met according to the original design vision.
6Residential Design Context
Residential architecture in Funchal often requires navigating complex terrain and historical building patterns. The Loungueira House serves as a contemporary example of how to replace aging, poorly built infrastructure with modern, efficient living spaces. This project reflects broader trends in Portuguese architecture that emphasize compact, sustainable, and highly organized urban residential developments.
7Technical Project Specifications
The finished residence encompasses a total area of 90 square meters, completed in 2026. The project is categorized under residential architecture, specifically focusing on house design. Documentation and photography were provided by Tiago Casanova, capturing the structural clarity and the integration of the home within its specific Funchal, Portugal, geographic context.
8Impact of Compact Design
The Loungueira House demonstrates that limited square footage does not necessitate a compromise in design quality or environmental sensitivity. By prioritizing a clear, continuous structure and respecting the site's natural features, Pontoatelier achieved a functional living space. This project stands as a model for future residential infill developments in dense urban environments.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Loungueira House: A Compact Residential Project in Funchal