A Saramaga is a minimal residence located in Cartaxo, Portugal, designed by DC.AD. The project was developed for a young couple, connected to the art world, who left the capital to find somewhere secluded to live and at the same time implement a program of artistic residencies. A Saramaga was the name thoughtfully bestowed on the property as a way of paying tribute to a former midwife in the town, whose image was taken up by the local community as a symbol of birth and the celebration of life.

The architectural features of the building were quite unusual, with exaggerated and disconnected elements and references, which resulted in a rather disjointed combination of the whole.  The main challenge of the project was the quest to find an aesthetic, formal and functional coherence that would resignify the existing architectural setting. 

On the outside, all secondary elements, such as low walls and paved walkways were eliminated, the openings were redesigned and the exterior flat surfaces were painted in textured shades of beige and white for an explicit identification of the different volumetric structures. The existing water mirror was transformed into a swimming pool and by manipulating the patio’s pavement levels, new platforms were created to allow different types of appropriations of the outdoor space.

Inside, the organisation of the spaces has generally been maintained.  The entrance is on the west side, at a point that separates the social areas from the private areas. An open kitchen was positioned in the centre of the building, favourably placed in relation to the private and social parts of the house, to the exterior and to the swimming pool. It is a functional transition area, offering an access through to the living room area. This main social area is generously proportioned and is the noble space of the house, notable for its high ceiling and the easy permeability with the exterior.