The ML residence is situated in Nova Lima in the state of Minas Gerais. The property is located on a hilly terrain with an average slope of 53 percent. To avoid the need for permanent retaining walls and minimize interference with the landscape, the design approach called for minimal earthwork and fewer building pillars. This resulted in a lighter and seemingly detached "volume" that sits above the ground.

To define the shape of the house and minimize material waste, the designer incorporated two concrete walls on the north and south sides. These walls were built using metalical formworks, eliminating the need for additional finishing work. Additionally, the use of such large concrete structures made it impractical to use scaffolding for maintenance and further justified the choice to leave the concrete exposed. This reduced the need for ongoing facade maintenance.

The building's height was determined based on the street gradient in order to create a direct connection from the front of the house to the garage. This design also allows for ample natural lighting at the back of the construction, which aids in the execution of landscaping projects. Despite being in a covered area, the landscaping benefits from this natural lighting by accommodating a greater variety of plant species.

The house consists of two floors, with the first floor at street level and the second floor below it. On the ground floor, you will find the garage and living area, while the social areas are located on the second floor. Access to the social areas is granted via a staircase that leads to an open square, acting as a transitional space between the living area and the street. Wooden doors serve as movable screens, allowing the social spaces to open up to the square in the west, while glass walls provide views of the mountains in the east. This layout not only promotes cross ventilation but also invites abundant natural light into the interior. Additionally, all bedrooms face the sunrise and enjoy views of the mountains.

By strategically positioning the house in relation to the sun, the need for air-conditioning is eliminated. Additionally, efficient artificial lighting and the utilization of photovoltaic and solar panels further enhance the house's energy efficiency.


ML Residence / Anastasia Arquitetos
Architects: Anastasia Arquitetos
Area: 7319 ft²
Year: 2019
Photographs:Jomar Bragança
Lead Architects: Tomás Anastasia, Johanna Anastasia
Clients: Lucas Lacerda, Mariana Scarioli
Engineering: Lucas Lacerda
Landscape: Matos e Renault
Consultant: CA Engenharia , Lacerda Projetos e Consultoria
Design Team: Sarita Soares, Catarina Klein, Carolina Jones
Country: Brazil
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