ADS House by VOA Arquitetura: Adaptive Reuse on Brazilian Coast
A family's decades-old vacation home gets a contemporary transformation for modern living.
1Project Origins
Located on Baleia Beach in São Sebastião, Brazil, ADS House had been a family's vacation retreat for over twenty years. VOA Arquitetura was commissioned to renovate the outdated structure that no longer met the residents' needs. The primary goal was to integrate the building with its coastal landscape while upgrading it to contemporary living standards through thoughtful adaptive reuse strategies.
2Architectural Approach
The 785-square-meter project employed adaptive reuse principles under the leadership of Beatriz Barbieri, Julia Zarouk, Marcella Gavasso, and Maria Pia Laloni. The team completely reorganized the interior layout while preserving the existing structure's character. Open-plan living areas were created to maximize natural light and ocean views, transforming how the family interacts with the space.
3Spatial Transformation
Previously compartmentalized interiors were reimagined with fluid transitions between spaces. Main living areas were expanded toward beach views while maintaining bedroom privacy. The original concrete framework was preserved, demonstrating sustainable renovation practices. This approach maintained structural integrity while allowing for modern spatial configurations suited to multigenerational use.
4Material Selection
Natural materials suitable for coastal conditions were prioritized throughout the project. Wood cladding and local stones created harmony between interior and exterior spaces. The neutral color palette reflects surrounding dunes and vegetation. Photographs by Rafael Renzo document how these material textures interact with changing light conditions throughout the day.
5Functional Upgrades
The redesign focused on accommodating extended family gatherings. Common areas were expanded with concealed storage solutions. Retractable glass systems introduced seasonal flexibility. Kitchens and bathrooms were completely updated to modern standards while maintaining the home's authentic character. These improvements addressed the family's evolving lifestyle needs.
6Environmental Integration
The project's most striking achievement is its renewed relationship with the natural surroundings. Terraces and expansive glazing make the Atlantic forest landscape an integral part of interior spaces. Native plants were used in landscaping to maintain ecological balance. The structure now appears as a natural extension of the beach's topography.
7Construction Process
Completed in 2023 despite pandemic-related supply chain challenges, the renovation preserved the existing load-bearing system. The eight-month project successfully blended regional construction techniques with modern standards through collaboration with local craftsmen. This approach maintained architectural authenticity while implementing necessary upgrades.
8Legacy of Adaptive Reuse
ADS House stands as an important case study for sustainably updating coastal vacation homes in Brazil. VOA Arquitetura's work demonstrates how to honor spatial memory while achieving functional transformation. The project has gained international recognition as a successful example of adaptive reuse, showing how existing structures can be reinvented for contemporary living without losing their essence.