TOP LEFT: Polished and painted cement floors mimic the white sand on Copacabana
Beach below. The breathtaking views from this penthouse showcase the modern
cityscape against the exotic natural backdrop. Above: Window panels slide open to let in the cool ocean breeze. Left: A retractable wall easily divides a small studio office from the living space.
Equipped with high-speed Internet and a fax machine, this in-home business center is personalized with a photo composition of the homeowner and his
daughter, both at the age of seventeen.
The 6,243-square-foot, three-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse is located in an
exclusive twelve-floor building with just one apartment per floor. An elevator
opens directly into the spacious abode, which was originally built in the 1950s
but was completely renovated in 2007 by Rio de Janeiro–based HouseInRio Projects. The design and architecture team is known for its
full-scale remodels, which represent the top tier of what Brazil has to offer
in style, sustainability, and local materials; this design is no different.
Described as Brazilian contemporary in style, the roomy apartment blends natural
materials, colors, and elements with an industrial foundation. The clean,
modern color palette highlights variations of tan, cream, white, brown, gray,
black, and accents of muted blue and green. Polished, painted cement floors;
paneled sliding windows; and substantial support columns provide an industrial
influence. The cold base is softened with local woods, such as Freijó; natural fibers; authentic cowhide rugs; and rotating tropical Brazilian
plants. Appropriately fit to scale, oversize artwork from the homeowners’ personal collection provides a bit of inspired color and depth in the minimalist
apartment.
The sizeable living room is unusual for Rio de Janeiro, where space is at a
premium. To maintain emphasis on the view, the room is void of superfluous
accessories and fitted simply with a few seating areas. Oversize plush sofas,
chaise lounges, and director chairs provide numerous vantage points to view the
city and beach below. Custom-made sectionals with intricate bamboo bases and
cushions covered in breathable linen encourage comfortable conversations and
lounging, while banana leaf seating and floor mats in front of the wall of
windows create an ideal spot for morning stretches.
The tranquil and minimalist design of the living space and other rooms in the
home promote relaxation and conversation. The en-suite master bathroom features
a stand-up shower, glass-enclosed steam room, and a vessel sink for a spa-like
feel.
Although the design of the home is minimalist, the amenities are modern and
sophisticated. Because it is a vacation home, the apartment is fully stocked with everything an international traveler would
need for in-home entertainment. A projection television is available for
evening screenings in the living area, surround sound and an iPod dock make
background music easily accessible, and high-speed Internet access and a fax
machine help maintain ties to the world outside the relaxing retreat locale.
Regardless of all that the home has to offer visitors, the view remains the
reason to rent. “The architectural genius of the design orients the space so that the longest
part of the apartment is the outer window, rather than the depth of the
apartment from the window,” says Burgio. “This maximizes the full potential of the pan-Copacabana view. Guests can admire
this view and enjoy being on Copacabana, yet in complete privacy…. Here, guests enjoy the beauty and vitality of the most legendary beach on the
continent, yet in the serenity of their own retreat.”
