Villa - Quinta dos Salicos
Located in Quinta dos Salicos, Carvoeiro, this 379 m² villa strikes a balance between technical requirements and integration into the landscape. Built between 2017 and 2019, the project stood out for its adaptation to the natural terrain, structural precision and attention to detail in the finishes, ensuring functionality, comfort and durability just a few minutes from the Algarve coast.
Local:
Carvoeiro – Lagoa | Algarve
Duration:
2017 – 2019
Architects:
Team:
Lead architect – João Carriço | Project Management and Conceptual Design – Arnold Aarssen
Curated by:
Pedro Vada
Photographs:
Da Cruz Photo
Surroundings and Location
Located in Quinta dos Salicos, Carvoeiro, this single-family home stands out for the way it adapts to the natural contours of the land. The construction was developed with respect for the topography, allowing for effective integration into the surrounding landscape and ensuring stability from the foundations to the exterior finishes. The proximity to the sea required a careful technical approach, especially in terms of waterproofing and protection against humidity.
Structure and Technical Solutions
The main structure was built using reinforced concrete, with reinforcements at load points and areas of greater exposure. The morphology of the house, marked by irregular angles and prominent volumes, required rigorous planning and specific technical solutions during the construction of the walls, slabs and roofs. The flat roofs were designed to allow access and functional use, such as terraces.
Lighting, Ventilation and Energy Efficiency Management
The building was designed to make the most of the sun’s orientation, with glass façades facing south and west, ensuring natural light throughout most of the day. Cross ventilation, made possible by the layout of the openings, was a concern from the design stage onwards, allowing for passive thermal comfort. The construction system and materials used help to optimise the energy efficiency of the dwelling.
Technical Systems and Installations
The entire technical infrastructure network – including water, electricity, air conditioning and drainage – was installed in an integrated manner during the construction process, with a view to easy future maintenance. Solutions were also created for technical areas in the basement, such as storage areas, a gym and a cinema, ensuring acoustic comfort and functionality.
Finishes and Outdoor Spaces
The finishes reflect a concern for durability and reduced maintenance. Outside, the creation of different platforms – for the swimming pool and living areas – respected the natural slope of the land. The garden area follows the concept of a dry Mediterranean garden, with species adapted to the local climate and traditional Portuguese cobblestone paths, maintaining the identity of the region.




A Challenge Achieved with Rigour
With a total area of 379 m² and construction taking place between 2017 and 2019, this project required continuous coordination between construction teams, suppliers, and the architectural firm. J.A. Duarte & Filho oversaw all stages of the construction process, focusing on quality, deadline control, and site safety.