‘the orchid house’ by david guerra
Located on the outskirts of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais, Brazil‘Orchid House’ is a sprawling getaway residence for a working couple and their extended family. Architect David Guerra completed the project in five years, and over time the whole family became involved in the decision-making and improvement processes, resulting in a rich, organic setting punctuated by an array of personal touches.
Beyond building a family home to host large parties and gatherings, the owners also wanted to establish a personal nature sanctuary, a place where endangered species of flora and fauna could find refuge. The 15,000 m² plot, dotted with hundred-year-old trees, thus offers a tremendous attraction for residents to participate actively in the preservation of the environment.
all photos © Jomar Braganza
a natural sanctuary meets an expansive and versatile getaway home
After a meticulous interdisciplinary licensing process with environmental regulators, the architect and the owners have obtained authorization to build a veritable complex for the preservation of fauna and flora: eight nurseries for twelve species of birds, capuchin monkeys, turtles and water tigers; two ponds with catfish and sorubim; two breeding facilities; and finally, two orchid gardens – with a total area of 900 m² – house 50,000 plants of 3,500 species of orchids, the largest personal orchid garden in the state of Minas Gerais.
Boasting a U-shaped volume, “Orchid House” is preceded by a large stone portico and a sculptural water fountain that welcomes residents into one of two covered parking lots and a courtyard for 20 cars . On entering, the bedroom opens onto a large central patio with views of the preserved century-old forest, natural sanctuary and leisure area with swimming pool, terrace, lounge and gardens. Inside, a large integrated space mixes a living room, dining room, TV room, cinema and a functional and gourmet kitchen, with a barbecue area and plenty of seating. Plus, owners enjoy a full spa experience with wet and dry saunas, showers, and a massage room.
entrance to the “orchid house”
As for the private space, located on the other side of the patio, David Guerra has arranged it so that it is approximately twice as large as the initial preliminary design since, little by little, the whole family is involved. ‘We have added three more bedrooms, all with suites, in addition to the office, which have been incorporated into the three suites and the master suite, this one with two bathrooms and two closets. The rooms are connected by an external circulation which has become a common living room with several environments, closed to prevent the entry of wild animals such as snakes and skunks into the residential area,’ explains the architect.
Complementary programs include a small chapel for the future wedding ceremonies of the grandchildren, an orchard and vegetable garden, and a recreational space specially designed for young people to welcome their friends. The latter includes five suites, a swimming pool, a deck and a functional kitchen. A six kilometer walking path also surrounds the entire complex.
David Guerra used a rich mix of materials and colors to clad the residence
From white and gray to brown, caramel and black, Guerra used a rich color palette to echo spatial and generational diversity. In terms of materials, a mixture of natural (wood, stone) and industrialized (dekton) elements brings warmth, comfort and efficiency to the entire structure. ‘In furniture, on the other hand, we seek timelessness for a sustainable home that will transcend fashions and trends.,’ he notes. The owners have also decided to buy an additional 15,000 m² of land next to it to build a sports ground with a football pitch, a tennis court, a multi-sports pitch and two beach tennis courts.
a small chapel was built for future celebrations and weddings
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