Casa do Carvalhal: The place of natural stone in contemporary architecture
June 2026
Casa do Carvalhal: The place of natural stone in contemporary architecture
In this house in Carvalhal, designed by Santa Bárbara Arquitetos, natural stone plays a central role in shaping the project’s identity.
In a design characterized by formal restraint, spatial continuity, and a connection to the surrounding landscape, Portuguese marble has been incorporated into various elements of the house, ranging from functional pieces to elements with a sculptural presence. The Galrão Group participated in the development and supply of these pieces through a collaborative process, from the selection of the blocks to the creation of the finished pieces.
Architects Inês Cruz and Gonçalo Pereira discuss the process, the details, and how natural stone contributes to the creation of timeless and enduring spaces.
In a context marked by rapid change and constant transformation, Santa Bárbara Arquitetos seeks to develop architecture grounded in continuity, serenity, and longevity. How are these principles reflected in the studio’s identity and its approach to residential projects?
We do not view architecture as a response to trends. We are interested in working with clear structures and materials that endure. Continuity arises from the process. We aim for the result to support living over time, striking a balance between adaptability and permanence.
The house in Carvalhal establishes a very natural relationship with the materials and its surroundings. What were the principles that guided the development of this project?
The house begins with an interpretation of the site, situated between the beach and the pine forest, on a small, exposed lot at the lowest elevation of the development. The vaults are not a formal gesture. They emerged as a response to the condominium regulations, which required sloped roofs in pursuit of a specific local identity. The lowered vault meets this requirement and, at the same time, responds to the horizontality of the site with a more contemporary expression. The house begins at the roof.
Natural stone plays a very prominent role in the house. How did the idea of using stone in such a pervasive way come about?
In a building characterized by the regularity of its structure, we felt that the elements that distinguish the spaces—the kitchen island, the bathtub, the fireplace, the doorknob—needed to have their own weight and presence. Stone is special because it is unique; no two pieces are ever the same, and it introduces singularity within the repetition of the structure.
The project received an Honorable Mention in the Young Architects Award. What did this recognition mean to you?
More than just an award, it was recognition of the project’s structural coherence and the consistency of our working method.
What potential do you see today in natural stone for residential architecture?
We believe that stone, especially Portuguese marble, lends a sense of nobility and timelessness to spaces. In this house, we sought to have it serve as a counterpoint to the white walls and anchor the project in a local building tradition.