Martins Architecture Office crafts L-shaped house in Guimarães
Martins Architecture Office’s residential project in Guimarães, Portugal, adopts an L-shaped configuration, determined by both spatial logic and functional requirements. The layout responds to site conditions by enclosing two key frontages, the street-facing and north-facing sides, while orienting the primary living areas toward the south and west.
The plan is organized along a diagonal axis formed by the folding of the L-shape. This axis establishes a spatial transition between the private zones, including the bedrooms, and the social areas such as the living room and kitchen. The main entrance and technical spaces are located at this intersection, serving as a pivot within the overall layout. The design of this hinge point introduces a distinct spatial identity, guided by the diagonal that defines the architectural strategy.
all images courtesy of Martins Architecture Office
sloping roof extends over residential unit’s L-shaped layout
Martins Architecture Office’s designers intentionally displace a structural column from the central axis to generate a geometric interaction with the ceiling. The roof is pitched at the maximum allowed slope of 35%, resulting in varied interior ceiling heights that contribute to spatial differentiation within the house.
A central chimney, which also functions as a structural element, anchors the patio composition. Its proportions were calculated to support the structure while allowing for an open connection between the living area and the swimming pool, eliminating the need for repetitive column placement along that interface.
project info:
name: L shape house
architect: Martins Architecture Office | @martinsarchitectureoffice
design team: Eva Martins, Joana Moreira, José Martins, Miguel Pereira
area: 240 sqm
location: Guimarães, Portugal
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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