WINNERS 2017

the ivory tower | site dwelling the task The task aimed to create the Site Dwelling, located on the cliff of the bay, in the village of Salir do Porto, a secluded destination, a place of retreat to engage with the landscape while providing shelter from the natural elements. the place Salir do Porto, Portugal is a picturesque village located on the southern side of the bay of São Martinho do Porto. In the old days, Salir do Porto was one of the main seaports in the region. In recent years it became a place of retreat for actors and writers. chapel and the lighthouse The Chapel of Sant’Ana is located within the limits of the cliff at the bay entrance. It is believed that its construction was to praise the ships that left for sea travels during the Age of Discoveries. On the top of the opposite cliff is the lighthouse. “Let's climb up to the top of our ivory tower, right up to the last step, close to the heavens.” Gustave Flaubert Ivory tower - an allegory that the most clearly representing the main concept of the project. the site plan The site dwelling is located on the ledge of the rock so that around only water and air. The main axis of the building coincides with the direction of the rock, while another one is perpendicular to the axis of the chapel. the masterplan Visitor can reach the site dwelling with the path that leads from the village to the cliff. Then the path goes down along the building to the ocean. There are also the system of viewpoints on the site. plan An open space plan without any doors, except the door in the toilet has a two levels due to the building response to the landscape. cross section The building is embedded in the landscape, repeating its original forms. architecture This building is a shelter for the soul, where human is alone with nature only. The volume contrasts with nature, but gently and modestly fit into the environment. The staircase leads from the cliff top to the stone shore, and the concrete pier allows to swim in the ocean or moor the ships. Due to the ocean is hard-to-reach, and the natural stone shore is not suitable for swimming, the project provides a swimming pool and a place for sunbathing. Deliberately austere architecture combines modern forms and elements of traditional Portuguese architecture such a steep narrow stairs that lead from the top of the cliff to the ocean, arches, colored platbands, massive walls and wooden shutters. interiors The interiors are spacious and ascetic. They are devoid of any details. A kind of frame for beautiful views that you can see from the windows. the ruins The ruins of chapel is used as an observation deck where visitors can enjoy the view of the evening city.