Alto da Boa Viagem Residential Complex

Caxias, Portugal

Client

Vogue Homes

Role

Lead Design Architect

Team

Laith Sayigh, Ugur Imamoglu, S+A

Type

Competiton

Program

Residential, Hotel

Status

Proposal 2024

Size

26,000 SQM

About the Project

This project is a collaboration with S+A. In the design phase, we incorporated a conceptual duality — public and private — closely tied to the site’s context. The design centers around a building visible along the north-south axis. This structure is inspired by the solidity of stone cliffs — natural formations that, despite their fissures, convey a sense of permanence and privacy.

Upon passing through the opening of the building’s first monolithic and private façade, one enters a courtyard and pool area, enclosed by the multifaceted, angular, and crystalline façades of the second concept.

In stark contrast to the solid structure, these buildings symbolize vitrification, angularity, reflection, and transparency. With layers of folded façades, they challenge the conventional notion of verticality, mirroring the beauty of a diamond. The façades capture and reflect light, creating a striking sense of brilliance.

In essence, they represent the rock with the crystal inside — a geode.

Inspiration

Drawings