Casa Atlantica

Architect Manuel Aires Mateus Draws Inspiration from Traditional Alentejo Homes with Striking Form & Vision

Located on the edge of a small chain of hills overlooking the countryside with spectacular views of the Atlantic coast, this striking vacation home rental is perched on over 17 acres of native Mediterranean forest with olive, lemon, and orange groves in the beautiful Alentejo region. Completed in 2015 by architect Manuel Aires Mateus and featured in Elle Decoration Germany, it's another in an audacious career of visionary projects in Portugal and throughout the world. 

Inspired by the characteristics of the traditional houses of the Alentejo, it's a departure in tone that draws from both modern form and function and natural elements. Comprised of four separate structures, the concrete construction is firmly contemporary and minimalist in style, with pale serene interiors and large windows that invite the outside in. Designed with a mix of contemporary and vintage furniture and splashes of contrasting color and texture, the effect is casual and chic.

We like the raw monolithic proportions that dramatically engage with the natural environment casting light and shadows. It's an almost futuristic habitat that draws from modern design, ancient form, and natural elements.

The main living area is bright and open with a cozy fireplace and includes a fully equipped modern kitchen and dining area and the master bedroom with a luxurious marble bath. Each of the three independent bungalows houses an en-suite double bedroom and all are oriented east to west with sea views and access to the east-facing patio overlooking the lawn and orchards. On the western side, a larger garden patio offers additional space to relax and enjoy the views and a vegetable garden where you can help yourself to some seasonal treats. 

The positioning gives a sense of tranquillity, space, and silence, where you can enjoy amazing ocean view sunsets and the unique beauty of the Alentejo.

Read an interview with food stylist Imogen Kwok, following her visit to Casa Atlantica, in our magazine here.

Around

Just an hour's drive south of Lisbon, the Comporta area of the Alentejo is ideally positioned to enjoy both the countryside and the Atlantic coastal areas. The region stretches from the Sado river to the charming nearby town of Melides with the road to the rural Serra do Grandola valley just below the property. 

Along the immediate coast, a five mile-long stretch of sand separates the sea and the lagoon, with the closest beach of Aberta Nova just a 10-minute drive away. Praia do Pego and Praia Carvalhal can be reached within thirty minutes and are among Portugal’s most beautiful. 

The lovely former fishing village of Comporta on the Troia Peninsula is fast becoming a popular spot for the stylish crowd but thankfully retains its laid back vibe and windswept natural beauty. Santiago do Cacem the ancient Moorish and later colonial community is with quaint cobblestone streets and fortifications is thirty minutes south along with the stunning ancient Roman settlement of Miróbriga. Setubal and the Sado estuary region is an hour north.

Location

Melides, Portugal. Nearest airport: Lisbon Portela International (1 hour)

Best time to visit

End of April through mid-November