Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Between the Atlantic Ocean and the lagoon, Ipanema Beach is one of the most famous in Rio, together with Copacabana. With respect to the latter it has a more refined spirit, in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods of the city. This is the location of the latest residence designed by Arthur Casas, a Brazilian architect who with his two studios — one in Sao Paulo, the other in New York — has gained extensive international acclaim.
The strong point of the project is its position, which ensures a panoramic view of the sea and Ipanema Beach. Sitting around the dining table, one has a direct view of the Morro Dois Irmãos, while from the home theater the gaze takes in part of the beach of Arpoador.
Organized for a couple with two small children, the apartment has been designed to combine family life with professional activities. The clients wanted a space that would accompany the growth of their daughters, but also separate rooms to outfit as home offices, ensuring the privacy required for smart working. The spaces offer panoramic views of the attractions of Rio de Janeiro, and of the sea at Ipanema Beach.
The kitchen is an extension of the living area and the dining room. The private space of the residence has been subdivided into three suites: the playroom, the children’s room and the master suite for the couple. The office zone has been inserted in the master bedroom, where it is possible to conceal the entrance thanks to a coplanar door that simulates a panel when closed.
As in many other projects by Arthur Casas and his studio, Orla Apartment naturally overlaps past and present. Starting with the design of the interiors, a nonchalant mixture of pieces designed by Arthur Casas – like the Fusca sofa, the Apache dining table, the Max dining chairs and the Jet Set, chair, as well as the Ondas and Willys sideboards – interacts with the Paulistana and Anette chairs by Jorge Zalszupin, Vintage tables and the Taccia lamp by the Castiglioni brothers for Flos.
