Standing out in contrast to the earthy rural environment, this striking holiday home in Portugal is defined by beautiful geometric block forms, spare clean lines and pristine whites.

Set within an expansive nature reserve in the hills of Faro and surrounded by acres of olive groves and peaceful countryside, the bleached structures form a series of interrelated living areas following the fundamental principles of contemporary Alentejano architecture.

Designed by internationally-renowned Portuguese architect Pedro Domingos, this modern installation employs a fresh, selective approach to minimalism and simplicity.

Expansive and bright, with simple understated luxuries and smart, minimalist decor including locally made ceramics, pottery, and blankets by Casa Cubista in Olhao, each of the living areas are bright airy spaces punctuated with multiple windows and angles that capture and reflect the natural light. 

The living room features a fireplace designed in 1965 by architects Alfonso Mila and Federico Correa surrounded by lounge areas next to the eat-in kitchen with both indoor and outdoor dining areas. 

With four large bedrooms and two full baths, the house sleeps six comfortably and is family-friendly. Each bedroom features private terrace access in peace and privacy. The house has also integrated many eco and sustainable practices such as solar energy and high-grade insulation to heat and cool naturally.

The gardens were designed by Sigmetum, botanical architects based in Lisbon, who have collected and cultivated wild seeds, encouraging and protecting native species found throughout the region. Local herbs and aromatic plants abound, perfect for your cooking, infusions, or aromatic treatments. (Read more about this in our Journal here.)

The lovely sheltered pool features shaded lounge areas and there’s a fantastic rooftop terrace for dining, lounging, and stargazing.

We love the lightness of this gem by architect Pedro Domingos that reflects the day and glows softly in the evening. When the sun is out, it casts beautiful geometric shadows on itself like minimalist paintings. Every line is perfectly juxtaposed, making each nook and corner a visual delight.

Find out nearby property Villa Agosto here.

IN THE HILLS OF FARO

The villa is located a few minutes from the picturesque village of Santa Barbara de Nexe in the Alentejo Province just 50 km from the Spanish border and within a short distance to the coast and downtown Faro. 

Seville is just an hour and a half away and Lisbon is just over a two-hour drive. Locally the town of Loule and the beautiful city of Tavira are within a short drive and the beaches of Almancil are just twenty minutes as is the coastal nature reserve of Rio Formosa. Other points of interest include: Evora, Flor do Crato, Ilha Deserta, Silves, Monchique, Sagres, Troia, Praia da Marinha, Vale do Lobo, and Quinta do Lago.

LOCATION

Faro Province, Portugal. Nearest Airport Faro International 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall is high season in the Algarve region with cool winter off-seasons where the focus turns away from sun and sand, but it’s nevertheless a lovely year round destination.