AF - Housing
Sustainability Strategies and Vernacular Construction
This project brings together two residential buildings in Melides: one existing house undergoing a complete refurbishment, and a new home built entirely in traditional taipa. The latter is one of the few municipally approved projects constructed using ancestral rammed-earth techniques — a commitment to local craftsmanship and vernacular sustainability. Both buildings follow a shared environmental strategy rooted in climate analysis, thermal mass, natural ventilation, and low-energy performance.
2020
Melides, Grândola
150m2 + 350m2
Under Construction
This project comprises two residential buildings set within the rural landscape of Melides. One is an existing house undergoing a complete refurbishment, redesigned to improve efficiency, orientation, and thermal performance while maintaining its original footprint. The second is a new building constructed entirely in traditional taipa, continuing the ancestral rammed-earth techniques of the region.
As a studio, we are particularly proud of this building: it is one of the few projects approved by the municipality that is built entirely in taipa using the old method, honouring local craftsmanship and the material culture of Alentejo.
Both buildings follow a common environmental strategy: a thorough study of climate, topography, prevailing winds and sunpath informs the placement of openings, shading elements and outdoor living areas. Thermal mass—through taipa and compressed earth blocks—acts as the primary passive energy concept. Window-to-floor ratios are calibrated for natural lighting without overheating, complemented by pergolas, external shutters and natural cross-ventilation.
Photovoltaic panels and solar systems support active energy production and hot-water generation, ensuring long-term low-energy performance for both homes.