Along the rugged coastline of Juquehy, Brazil, an extraordinary sustainable beach house designed by Lucio Fleury Arquitetura stands in perfect harmony with its climate and mid‑century inspiration. Every architectural decision responds to nature—large wood‑framed eaves wrap around the home, windows and walls are aligned to encourage cross‑ventilation, and each design feature balances aesthetic grace with environmental responsibility.
Clad almost entirely in reforested laminated wood, the structure pays its dues to sustainable building practices. The ground floor is built upon a suspended concrete slab, while the upper levels use wooden beams topped with wall‑panel slabs—an approach that keeps the environmental footprint low without sacrificing durability. Local climate shaped many design decisions, notably the deep overhangs that protect walls and windows from intense sun and heavy rains, reducing maintenance needs and improving comfort indoors.
The façades do more than just shield; they sculpt experience. The southern façade fully opens toward the sea, ushering in panoramic views, salty breezes, and natural light. In contrast, the western side is more enclosed, built in cellular concrete masonry with vertical brises filtering the setting sun and bathing the internal courtyard in soft, glowing light. This contrast between openness and shelter creates moments of intimacy and drama.
Limited by local regulations to just two‑thirds of the 14‑metre frontage, the house spans just over nine metres wide. Yet clever design ensures that narrow doesn’t mean cramped. Three sea‑view suites are arranged in elongated proportions; each room finds its view of the ocean, and even the bathrooms include windows into the bedrooms so that the sea becomes part of every moment—even while showering.
The ground floor leads into a garden courtyard that stretches the full width of the house, creating an inviting entrance that connects to the living spaces. Adjacent lies a second courtyard under a double‑height ceiling, its tile flooring flowing seamlessly into the kitchen. This layout fosters openness, blurring indoor and outdoor living in a joyful, functional way.
Color here is more than ornament—it amplifies character. The natural tones of the wooden structure form a warm, grounding base. Then bold blue accents rise on the upper floor facing the sea; vibrant yellow brightens the street‑facing block. Together, the palette reflects Juquehy’s playful spirit and the vibrant contrast between water, sky, and landscape.
Through its architecture, materiality, and detailing, this sustainable beach house in Juquehy becomes more than a home—it is a model for how mid‑century design can be revived in harmony with nature. The house doesn’t merely look good; it breathes, adapts, and responds to its environment. For anyone seeking coastal living that honors both style and sustainability, Lucio Fleury Arquitetura’s creation is nothing short of inspiring.
