This project most definitely counts as a significant highlight of our Portugal trip since we not only had a chance to visit but also to live in this house for two days. You can book the place through Silent Living; they specialize in unique accommodations.

Casa Na Terra is located near Monsaraz with panoramic views over the Alqueva lake at the Portuguese Spanish border. The project designed by Aires Mateus is one of the 15 winners of Arch Daily’s Building of the year 2020.

The building uses the terrain to create a focal point and dome that hugs and embraces the lake view.  The domed courtyard is at the center of life in the house; it is the place we spent 90% of the time. Full wall sliding windows open up the kitchen and living room to the view and serve as a frame to the panorama. Three bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms are placed in the hillside of the structure, receiving light through two generous light cylinders. Materials inside the home are minimal and embrace the concrete construction of the building.