Bed on top of a small plot in the characteristic Canal City of Aveiro, Casa Forca-Vouga is a striking architectural project that balances openness and privacy while harmonizing with its sloping site. Situated on a 3-meter slope and surrounded by built-up fronts of houses, this residence creatively organizes two main floors and an attic, embracing functional and aesthetic challenges.

The house is an exploration of contrasts—between solidity and lightness, natural integration and contemporary design. The upper volume, conceived as a white monolith, anchors the visual identity of the house. This immaculate white block features carefully designed excavations that reveal a warm wooden interior, offering a subtle interplay of materials and textures. Below, a service floor, containing garages, laundry and storage, fits into the topography while providing structural support and practical utility.

The architectural design suggests a sense of floating above the site, as if the house were gently hovering above its surroundings. This deliberate elevation not only makes a bold visual statement, but also addresses the functional demands of the site. By embracing the natural slope and integrating a lower level, its design optimises the use of the land, creating additional maneuvring space for vehicles whilst maintaining a light and airy appearance above.

The house interacts dynamically with its environment, organizing transitions between the topography and the surrounding street. The façade establishes a clean, modern presence while ensuring that the design remains sensitive to the existing built context. To the west, a spacious terrace extends the communal areas, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior. This terrace invites sunlight and offers panoramic views, making it a perfect setting for relaxation or social gatherings.

The internal layout emphasizes spatial fluidity and efficiency. The ground floor is dedicated to communal spaces, with an open-plan design that blurs the boundaries between the different areas. Circulation is minimized, improving the usability and flow of the house. Each space is thoughtfully designed, ensuring comfort and practicality for its residents.

The lower level becomes a vital aspect of the project, carved out of the natural topography to house utility areas and create additional parking space. This excavation allows the upper levels to feel lighter and more expansive, emphasizing the architectural theme of a “floating” volume. The interplay of the basement and the upper monolith underscores the careful approach to maximizing functionality while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Located at Rua da Guiné-Bissau, the home embraces its contemporary style, blending innovation with respect for its surroundings. By marrying form, function, and context, the Forca-Vouga home exemplifies the potential of contemporary architecture to create spaces that are visually striking and deeply integrated with their surroundings. A testament to domestic design that offers its residents a harmonious blend of modern living and urban connection.