Passive House, Conceived in the isolation of the pandemic, the Passive House is a direct response to the desire for a simpler, autonomous life connected to nature. Designed by Mareines Arquitetura, the residence is situated on a large plot of land in the interior of São Paulo that underwent a process of reforestation, in partnership with the Vistara Landscape Architecture office.
© Leonardo Finotti
The architecture embraces this commitment from its inception, engaging in a sensitive dialogue with the land and a program that respects the natural cycle of elements.
© Leonardo Finotti
It was important for the house to emerge from the very earth, utilizing its materials and respecting its flows. It’s not just about being sustainable — it needs to reflect that sustainability. — Ivo Mareines, architect and co-founder of Mareines Arquitetura
© Leonardo Finotti
The starting point of the project was the creation of a walled triangular garden, planted with various species and protected by three architectural arms. “It is a reinterpretation of cloisters, elements common in monasteries. We wanted this to be an area of tranquility, pause, and meditation,” reveals Mareines.
© Leonardo Finotti
This pursuit of introspection and serenity is also reflected in the organization of the spaces. The residence consists of two main volumes. On the ground floor, there are social areas and guest suites, distributed in a fluid and continuous manner. The zoning is suggested, not imposed: the water mirror, the furniture, the curvature of the roof, and the very incidence of light create distinct atmospheres without the use of walls. In the upper volume, isolated above the garden, is the master suite, a spacious and private area, with an office and a privileged view of the land, ensuring privacy even during visits.
© Leonardo Finotti
The exposed brick roof, with a pronounced curvature, is one of the central elements of the project. In addition to aesthetically marking the residence, it acts as a rainwater collector, directing it to the pool. The double slabs and generous eaves contribute to the passive cooling of the spaces, eliminating the need for air conditioning.
© Leonardo Finotti
Passive House positions itself as a construction with contemporary solutions, born from its surroundings and fully utilizing them, creating cozy and ecologically well-placed spaces. “This house brings a feeling of absolute peace. It’s as if it was born there — with the earth and for the earth. It does not impose presence; it welcomes,” concludes Ivo Mareines.
Project Info
Architects: Mareines Arquitetura
Country: Brazil, São Paulo
Area: 1350 m²
Year: 2024
Photographs: Leonardo Finotti
Project Team: Ivo Pedro Mareines, Matthieu Van Beneden e Isabella Slawka (arquiteta coordenadora)
Landscape Architeture: Vistara Paisagismo
Engineering And Construction: TJ7 Engenharia e Construtora
Lighting: Lightworks
Window Frames: Weiku
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.