A new residential project in Pavia, Portugal, showcases how contemporary architecture can honor regional building traditions while meeting modern living requirements. The Monte Alvo House, designed by NOZ Arquitectura, demonstrates a thoughtful approach to single-story design that maximizes both solar orientation and thermal comfort throughout the year.
The architectural team, led by Inês Sousa, Rui Dias, and José Malhó, completed the 430-square-meter residence in 2024. The project sits prominently atop Monte Alvo, taking full advantage of its elevated position to optimize natural lighting and climate control. The design reflects the deep-rooted architectural traditions of the Alentejo region, which emphasize simplicity of form and functional spaces.
According to the architects, the Alentejo's architectural heritage is characterized by its profound connection to both climate and landscape. This traditional approach guided the design process, ensuring that the house responds appropriately to its environmental context. The single-story configuration allows for efficient use of the site's solar orientation, a critical factor in achieving year-round thermal comfort.
The project received engineering support from Espaço Civil for civil engineering aspects and Certigy for electrical systems. Photography of the completed residence was captured by Fernando Guerra of FGSG, documenting how the contemporary interpretation maintains the region's architectural DNA while incorporating modern living standards and energy efficiency principles.
