Barra Apartment, designed by Paulo Martins Arquitectura & Design, transforms a four-storey building overlooking Praia da Barra into an intimate contemporary retreat. The project reimagines the original structure, anchoring the residence in its coastal context while offering a renewed sense of serenity and sophistication. The approach is rooted in a deep understanding of place, allowing the apartment to serve as both a seamless extension of the landscape and a private sanctuary for its inhabitants.
Photographer Ivo Tavares and his team share the images of the striking project.
Minimalism Meets Materiality
Inside, the design language is defined by an interplay of minimalist lines and tactile natural materials. Oak floors and wall panels, finished in soft beige hues reminiscent of sand, create a continuous visual flow. Light, neutral ceilings enhance the influx of natural light, intensifying the apartment’s openness and sense of calm. A sculptural element emerges in the form of a grey mirrored volume housing the sanitary facilities; this reflective surface blurs spatial boundaries, amplifying the perception of space and lending a sense of lightness and continuity throughout the home.
Fluid Social Spaces
The principal living area is conceived as an open, fluid environment where living, dining, and kitchen spaces are seamlessly integrated. Careful attention to spatial coherence ensures that the laundry area remains discreet, preserving the elegance and cohesion of the layout. This open-plan configuration encourages flexibility, supporting both everyday routines and moments of quiet reflection. The result is a refined yet welcoming setting that balances functionality with a distinctive sense of place.
A Private Refuge
The bedroom is envisioned as a tranquil, self-contained retreat. Featuring an en-suite bathroom and a generous wardrobe, it offers comfort and privacy in an atmosphere defined by balance and harmony. The design prioritizes the client’s need for rest and restoration, transforming the bedroom into a personal haven that responds to the demands of contemporary life.
A Dialogue with the Landscape
Barra Apartment’s intervention is characterized by a subtle dialogue between simplicity and sophistication, functionality and emotion. Every detail is considered to foster a domestic experience that remains deeply connected to the natural beauty of the surrounding coast. The home’s ambiance is at once serene and evocative, shaped by the interplay of honest materials and thoughtful design.
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Quoting Paulo Martins: “With the Barra Apartment residence, our vision was to translate the tranquil and timeless beauty of the beach into a livable, emotional space. We crafted a home that feels both a part of its surroundings and a quiet escape from the outside world. For clients with such demanding lives, the primary goal was to create a sanctuary where they could truly rest and find harmony. This project is a celebration of thoughtful design that uses honest materials to create a calm, harmonious, and truly bespoke living experience.”
Applied Products
- BD Barcelona: SW Vase 10th Anniversary White by Jaime Hayon
- Santa & Cole: Sylvestrina, Cesta (Lighting)
- Davide Groppi: TeTaTeT (Lighting)
More of the project in our gallery:
Location: Aveiro, Portugal
Year of Completion: 2025
Total Area: 65 m²
Architecture Office: Paulo Martins Arquitectura & Design
Main Architect: Paulo Martins
For more work by Paul Martins and his team visit: paulomartins.com.pt
