In São Paulo, the Thompson Hess House—designed by architect Rodolpho Ortenblad in 1957—has been carefully brought back to life by Architect Felipe Hess. The renovation respects its mid-century design roots while making it functional for today.
Preserving Mid-Century Design Details
The project focused on reinstating key architectural elements from the original scheme. The signature pergola with built-in bench was rebuilt based on archive photos. Natural finishes such as fulget pillars, wooden panels, and original window frames were restored, removing previous white paint layers. The stone floors were cleaned and kept, reinforcing the mid-century design character.
New Uses, Same Spirit
Updates were made without disrupting the house’s identity. A former service area now holds a garage and playroom that opens to the outside. Custom wood and glass doors, made to match the originals, connect this space to the interior. The main living area was reorganised to include two lounges, a dining space, an office facing the back garden, and a new fireplace. Kitchen and bathrooms were updated using materials and colours in line with the home’s original palette—wood, beige limestone, and muted tones.
Mid-Century Design for a New Era
This restoration shows how mid-century design can still guide the way we live today. Instead of reimagining it, the approach here was to reveal it—bringing the home closer to its original look and layout while improving comfort and flow. It proves that good design doesn’t need to be reinvented. It just needs care, context, and craftsmanship.
