Lizard Studio
The new dwelling is nestled within an old rural estate on the interior of São Miguel Island, where vineyards and fruit trees once flourished. Divided into terraced plots enclosed by dry stone walls and protective hedges, the property offers glimpses of the Atlantic and the island’s northern coast from elevated sections accessed by a grand basalt stone walkway, locally known as a ‘lagarto’ in the vernacular architecture glossary.
Situated on a lower part of the land, the new structure, a 40 m2 studio, is parallel to the stone walkway, establishing a strong relationship with it. Clad in basalt stone, the building exudes a sense of solidity and privacy within the expansive garden, yet opens up to light and views through an extended porch that unfolds to the south and west.
Featuring an asymmetrical pitched roof, the dwelling comprises a common living area, bedroom, kitchenette, accessible bathroom, and outdoor technical area. A mezzanine expands the usable space, while high ceilings in the living area add to the sense of openness.
Contrasting the exterior’s cool gray stone, both the porch and interiors are warmed by the embrace of wood, enveloping every space in comfort. Embracing a comfortable and unassuming minimalism, the design focuses on making the surrounding views the space’s main character.
Project: Lizard Studio
Typology: Private House
Year: 2022 / present
Location: Pico do Alho, S. Miguel Island
Surface: 40 m2
Team: Joana de Oliveira, Giacomo Mezzadri, Sabrina Sinelli, Kristýna Rosecká, Paola Cannillo
Lizard Studio
The new dwelling is nestled within an old rural estate on the interior of São Miguel Island, where vineyards and fruit trees once flourished. Divided into terraced plots enclosed by dry stone walls and protective hedges, the property offers glimpses of the Atlantic and the island’s northern coast from elevated sections accessed by a grand basalt stone walkway, locally known as a ‘lagarto’ in the vernacular architecture glossary.
Situated on a lower part of the land, the new structure, a 40 m2 studio, is parallel to the stone walkway, establishing a strong relationship with it. Clad in basalt stone, the building exudes a sense of solidity and privacy within the expansive garden, yet opens up to light and views through an extended porch that unfolds to the south and west.
Featuring an asymmetrical pitched roof, the dwelling comprises a common living area, bedroom, kitchenette, accessible bathroom, and outdoor technical area. A mezzanine expands the usable space, while high ceilings in the living area add to the sense of openness.
Contrasting the exterior’s cool gray stone, both the porch and interiors are warmed by the embrace of wood, enveloping every space in comfort. Embracing a comfortable and unassuming minimalism, the design focuses on making the surrounding views the space’s main character.
Project: Lizard Studio
Typology: Private House
Year: 2022 / present
Location: Pico do Alho, S. Miguel Island
Surface: 40 m2
Team: Joana de Oliveira, Giacomo Mezzadri, Sabrina Sinelli, Kristýna Rosecká, Paola Cannillo
