Modular Timber House Design in Portugal
Diogo Aguiar Studio's residential project dialoguing with the mountains of Serras do Porto
1Project Overview
Designed by Diogo Aguiar Studio, House Over the Hills is a 200-square-meter single-family residence in Aguiar de Sousa, Portugal. Completed in 2023, the project aims to establish a visual dialogue with the mountain landscape of Serras do Porto. The structure consists of five main modules plus three independent exterior-access units. The choice of timber as primary material harmonizes with the region's natural context while meeting sustainability objectives.
2Architectural Concept
The design team developed a geometric composition of inclined planes inspired by distant mountain forms. Identical modules angled in different directions create organic connections with topography. Structural engineering solutions by PENREA/Rui Nuno Salgueiro ensured the modular system's stability. Construction collaboration between Grupo Grandys and Somaia shaped the project's technical execution, blending innovation with local building expertise.
3Spatial Configuration
While the five primary modules accommodate three bedrooms, exterior units provide functional flexibility. The southwest orientation optimizes daylight penetration. Designers Adrian López, Carolina Fiúza, and Christos Gyftopoulos developed solutions that soften indoor-outdoor transitions. The modular infrastructure allows for future functional adaptations without compromising architectural integrity.
4Material Innovation
The material palette dominated by timber was selected for environmental sustainability. Prefabrication of modular components enhanced construction efficiency. Photographer Fernando Guerra's images document the structure's visual relationship with topography. Sloped roof planes serve dual purposes - managing rainwater while contributing to the aesthetic language.
5Landscape Integration
The project demonstrates respectful integration with Serras do Porto's unique terrain. Module placement minimizes impact on existing vegetation while framing mountain views. The geometry mirroring distant silhouettes visually anchors the building to its context. Passive design strategies adapted to regional climate conditions enhance energy performance.
6Collaborative Process
Led by Diogo Aguiar and Daniel Mudrák, the project benefited from interdisciplinary collaboration. PENREA's structural analysis validated the modular system's feasibility. Photographer Fernando Guerra played crucial role in visualizing architectural intentions. Partnerships with local contractors facilitated integration of regional construction techniques.
7Programmatic Adaptability
Independent access to exterior units expands the residence's capacity for future use scenarios. The modular configuration simplifies functional transformations. Anticipating post-pandemic living needs, the team developed flexible usage possibilities. The relationship between main structure and auxiliary units can be reinterpreted according to evolving requirements.
8Architectural Significance
House Over the Hills establishes a new benchmark for modular design in contemporary Portuguese architecture. Its visual and physical dialogue with landscape offers fresh perspectives on sustainable housing. The project successfully merges regional traditions with modern technologies. Diogo Aguiar Studio's work exemplifies how contextual sensitivity and innovation can coexist in architectural practice.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Portekiz'de Modüler Ahşap Ev Tasarımı