Mixing Modern With a Mid-Century Brazilian Aesthetic

Casa Figueira is a surprising family home nestled within the tranquil suburb of Rose Bay in Sydney, Australia. Named after a century-old, heritage-protected fig tree, Casa Figueira was dropped at life through a collaborative effort between buck&easy: doers of stuff (lead architect), Luigi Rosselli Architects (original architect), Atelier Alwill (interior design), and Dangar Barin Smith (landscape architect).

Casa Figueira strikes the proper balance between a up to date style and a mid-century Brazilian aesthetic. Inspired by the need to create an open-air living space, the architects sought to bring together form and performance. Off-form board concrete ceilings are juxtaposed with American Walnut joinery, helping to draws the attention towards the encompassing landscape. Generous open-plan living spaces merge seamlessly with a central courtyard, inviting nature right into the house.

The essential living space, flanked by two long sides with sliding glass doors, becomes an open air pavilion complete with a kitchen that has a solid stainless-steel island on one side and a sunken lounge on the opposite.

One in all the essential concerns throughout the design process was to be certain that Casa Figueira withstood the test of time. The architects approached this challenge with meticulous thought, choosing materials and detailing that will weather well. Extensive research and collaboration with suppliers led to using non-ferrous metals, resilient protective coatings, and wood finishes. The result creates a cohesive style throughout the house, where aged brass is paired with raw concrete and warm wood details.

The doorway door, etched in bronze, welcomes guests, while a gracefully curved foyer with open stairs guides visitors inside. A round skylight filters natural light down creating an ever-changing play of sunshine and shadow because the day progresses.