House ML / Arquipélago Arquitetos

Architects: Arquipélago Arquitetos
Area: 140 m²
Year: 2016
Photography: Pedro Napolitano Prata
Manufacturers: Ananda Metais, Decorlit, Glasvale, Mato Dentro
Landscaping: Lilian Masini
Construction: Marcelo Glória
Architects in Charge: Luís Tavares, Marinho Velloso
City: Paraty
Country: Brazil

House ML, a residential project by Arquipélago Arquitetos in Paraty, Brazil, responds to the challenges of building in a remote rainforest by utilizing dry construction methods and lightweight, prefabricated materials. Completed in 2016, the house minimizes environmental impact while enhancing thermal comfort in the region’s warm, humid climate. A wood frame structure, cement panel partitions, and insulated metal roofing facilitate easy transport and efficient assembly. The spatial arrangement maximizes engagement with the surrounding landscape, with private areas facing the dense forest for seclusion and social spaces opening toward the clearing and valley to optimize light, ventilation, and views.

Casa ML is a light wooden house, elevated from the ground, positioned in a damp and warm clearing in the middle of the Atlantic Forest, and is hard to access, in Paraty. Therefore, we proposed an architecture made of lightweight wooden pieces and thermo-acoustic tiles that would fit into the client’s truck.
Interview with Luís Tavares of Arquipélago Arquitetos

Nestled within a rainforest glade in the mountain range of Paraty, Rio de Janeiro, House ML was designed to integrate with its natural surroundings while addressing the site’s accessibility and climate constraints. Given the region’s warm and humid conditions, the project prioritizes dry construction techniques, ensuring a balance between sustainability, efficiency, and comfort.

The design incorporates lightweight and prefabricated elements, reducing transportation difficulties and minimizing construction waste. The structural system comprises cement panel partitions, a wood frame structure, and metal roofing with thermal insulation, selected to withstand the humid environment while enhancing energy efficiency.

The layout strategically frames views and strengthens the house’s relationship with the landscape. Private spaces are oriented toward the enclosed forest, creating a sense of retreat, while social areas open to the clearing and valley, fostering a connection with the surrounding nature. This approach allows the house to engage harmoniously with its environment, balancing enclosure and openness within its remote setting.