In August, we launched the first Architecture Tours Bom Sucesso – an initiative from owners to explore and celebrate the extraordinary collection of modern architecture that defines the Bom Sucesso community.
The first edition was an intimate event, exclusive to a small group of Bom Sucesso owners. People enjoyed visiting 9 villas on two different evenings, experiencing the villas unique atmospheres, and discovering the contrasts between the Porto School and Lisbon School of architecture through personal notes and stories, all part of the Architecture Tours Bom Sucesso.
In every house, we learned about the architect(s), their notable works, and their involvement at Bom Sucesso Resort. This was followed by a personal tour of the villa by the owners, who shared what they love, what they would change, and how crucial the architecture is for their daily lives during the Architecture Tours Bom Sucesso.
A big thank you goes to the homeowners who generously opened their doors – the tours would not be possible without you!
Highlights from the August Tours:
La Bella Camilla by Alcino Soutinho (1930–2013)
Soutinho was one of the great masters of the Porto School, shaping generations of architects as both a teacher and practitioner. Known for his humanist approach and strong civic vision, he brought modernism into dialogue with tradition. His villa at Bom Sucesso reflects his attention to context, wind orientation, and interior–exterior balance, with marble finishes and a fireplace as a central feature – creating a very dynamic living experience in a gorgeous landscape setting.
Notable Works Beyond Bom Sucesso: Matosinhos City Hall, Vila Franca de Xira Municipal Library
White Block House by Manuel Aires Mateus (b. 1963)
Aires Mateus is known internationally for his sculptural, minimalist language, where light and voids play as important a role as mass. At Bom Sucesso, he designed 7 row houses and 11 villas, all deeply integrated with the site. The “White Blocks” residence exemplifies his architectural poetry of subtraction and geometry.
Notable Works Beyond Bom Sucesso: Cascais Lighthouse, Leiria House, Cave House, EDP Headquarters (Lisbon)
Cube Villa by Gonçalo Byrne (b. 1941)
Byrne’s practice is characterized by rigorous geometry and a deep sensitivity to context. At Bom Sucesso, he created five projects, including the striking “Cube Villa,” where cubic forms are articulated to create layered spatial experiences.
Notable Works Beyond Bom Sucesso: Chiado Renewal (with Álvaro Siza), Portuguese National Library Extension, São Martinho do Porto Tourist Information Center.
Oliveiras Villa by Nuno Graça Moura (b. 1972)
Graça Moura, a disciple of Eduardo Souto de Moura, carries forward the Porto School tradition with rigorous proportions, material sensibility, and a refined modern language. During the tour, we hosted a special architectural talk focusing on his philosophy and practice, and went into detail about the 13 different buildings he contributed to Bom Sucesso Resort.
Red L Villas by João Luís Carrilho da Graça (b. 1952)
Carrilho da Graça’s Red L Villas stand out with bold geometries and striking red façades – a strong Lisbon School presence at Bom Sucesso. Their sculptural form and dramatic color make them among the most recognizable villas of the resort. They are designed at the edge of each plot to fully optimize the garden.
Notable Works Beyond Bom Sucesso: Knowledge of the Seas Pavilion (Expo 98), Lisbon School of Music, Campo das Cebolas public space
Casa R by Atelier dos Remédios – Madalena Cardoso de Menezes & Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Founded in 1997, the Lisbon-based Atelier dos Remédios is known for contemporary residences with strong volumetric expression. At Bom Sucesso, they developed 7 villas and 3 row houses. Their Casa R, which we visited, is one of the most recent houses built, offering panoramic openness to the golf course with many contemporary design details.
Lobo Villa by Inês Lobo (b. 1963)
Winner of the ArcVision Prize – Women and Architecture in 2014, Inês Lobo’s work is refined, rational, and deeply contextual. Her villa at Bom Sucesso reflects her careful attention to proportion and clarity, offering an intimate yet powerful architectural experience.
Reflections
These tours are not only about visiting beautiful houses – they are about understanding the ideas, traditions, and debates that shaped them. Bom Sucesso is a living museum of contemporary Portuguese architecture, where the Porto School and Lisbon School meet, each with its own language and philosophy.
The feedback from our first editions was overwhelmingly positive, and an other edition is planned.
If you would like to join a future tour at Bom Sucesso, let me know and I will add you to the list. Ben
Born in 1945 in Castellón de la Plana, Spain, Josep Llinás is one of only two international architects, alongside David Chipperfield, invited to contribute to the Bom Sucesso Resort project in Óbidos, Portugal.
A highly respected figure in Spanish architecture, Llinás was awarded the Gold Medal for Architecture by the Government of Spain in 2024, recognizing his lifetime achievements and architectural legacy.
Llinás’ experience with Bom Sucesso was mixed. In a brief email exchange, he shared that, from his perspective, the project failed. His personal archive reveals that he developed three distinct house designs for the resort and that he was initially allocated 16 plots along Rua da Lagoa. Today, six plots are still promoted as Josep Llinás Villas. Three Villas were built (here), without his knowledge.
On the other Plots you find today Ines Lobo’s Villa and the K/360 House by Atelier dos Remédios, Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos.
Some of this is echoed by an original homeowner. They being told that Llinás exited the project quite early. However, since some of the plots had already been sold, the projects were handed off to two Portuguese architects, who made modifications and adapted them into their own designs (We believe it was Atelier dos Remédios, Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos, to be confirmed). One of the owners was able to influence the final design of their villa to remain close to Llinás’ original concept.
A Glimpse into the Architect’s Process
While the project may not have unfolded as Llinás envisioned, we are deeply honored to have received exclusive access to a large body of his original material, including unreleased sketches, design iterations, and architectural studies for Bom Sucesso.
His archive reveals three complete villa proposals, each reflecting a strong sensitivity to the site’s natural landscape and orientation. Ultimately, only one design, modified by another architectural team, was built.
It is extraordinary to have this rare insight into Josep Llinás’ design process, from hand sketches to 3D models.
House Model 185 unbuilt Bom Sucesso Resort
One Level L Shape Villa
Some documents list lot 264, 362 and 361 for this house model 185. But we believe it was planned for the lower plots of Phase 2, lot 351, 352 and 353 according to the 3d street model.
All Images by Josep Llinás
House Model 220 unbuilt Bom Sucesso Resort
An L-shaped house with a tower offering views of the lagoon, Caldas, and the Montejunto mountain range.
All Images by Josep Llinás
House Model 250 unbuilt Bom Sucesso Resort (likely a variation of 185)
Images by Josep Llinás
6 Villas at Bom Sucesso by Josep Llinás
All Images by Ben
More Bom Sucesso insides by Josep Llinás:
Previously, we published the following articles featuring original photographic material by Josep Llinás. We are very grateful for his generous contribution to archive the history of the Bom Sucesso Resort.
- The Lost 3d Model: Rediscovering Bom Sucesso’s Original Vision
- Bom Successo Interior Construction Materials Show Room
- Before the Modern Architecture Came: Bom Sucesso Resort in Its Raw Form
Álvaro Siza Vieira is not only Portugal’s most celebrated architect, but also one of the most respected figures in contemporary architecture worldwide. Winner of the prestigious Pritzker Prize, Siza is known for his restrained elegance, masterful use of light, and architecture that quietly responds to its surroundings at the Siza Vieira Bom Scuesso Resort.
Álvaro Siza Vieira visiting Bom Sucesso Phase 2, found in Álvaro Siza Design Process | Quinta do Bom Sucesso Housing Project, ISBN: 978-989-8481-29-0
At Bom Sucesso Resort, a bold vision was set in motion: 23 leading Portuguese modern architects were invited to create a contemporary urban plan embedded in the landscape of the Óbidos Lagoon.
Visitors can experience the unique blend of nature and architecture at the Siza Vieira Bom Scuesso Resort, making it a must-see destination.
Álvaro Siza Vieira visiting Bom Sucesso in the Car, found in Álvaro Siza Design Process | Quinta do Bom Sucesso Housing Project, ISBN: 978-989-8481-29-0
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s lots at Siza Vieira Bom Scuesso Resort
While he is best known at the resort for his 13 villa designs in Phase 1 of Bom Sucesso, some of Álvaro Siza Vieira’s most compelling contributions remain unbuilt — offering a rare opportunity to build a home designed by one of the greatest architectural masters of our time.
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Design Signature at Bom Sucesso Resort Commercial Building
What makes Siza’s work resonate at Bom Sucesso is not just its form — but the precision in its details, which you can see throughout his buildings at the resort: the wood-framed windows with matte metal trim and exposed bolts, the custom 3D metal signage that casts shifting shadows throughout the day, the gender symbols he personally drew for the restrooms, and the elegant designed door handles.
These repeating elements create a subtle rhythm across his buildings — unmistakable for those who look closely.
Custom 3D metal signage, like “Receção” and “Mercado,” whose shadows shift throughout the day
Characteristic windows with silver metal frames to the outside designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Wooden-framed, with matte silver trim and visible bolts.
Gender symbols for restrooms, drawn by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Door Handle designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Flying Roofs and Harmonizing Forms
Álvaro Siza Vieira Greets You at the Entrance of Bom Sucesso Resort
Driving up the hill toward Bom Sucesso Entrance the first architectural encounter is a small white building with a limestone base and Siza’s unmistakable windows. This is the security house, designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira himself.
Here, you’re greeted by a wave from the guard — and by the quiet clarity of Siza’s architectural language. Minimal. Elegant. Timeless.
The Commercial Buildings at Bom Sucesso Resort by Álvaro Siza Vieira
At the resort entrance, to the right of the roundabout, Siza’s commercial complex unfolds in a thoughtful sequence of clean, low-profile buildings.
The architectural language here is soft-spoken but refined. Light sandstone façades, large windows, a gently playful roofline, and rounded elements create an atmosphere of calm.
The buildings blend into the topography rather than dominating it.
The “Receção” at Bom Sucesso Resort by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Commercial Spaces at Bom Sucesso by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Nave Lagoa, a multi-purpose event venue
Nave Lagoa is a versatile event venue designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort, located within the resort’s commercial area. Originally, the upper floor housed a fully stocked delicatessen-style supermarket, serving residents and guests with gourmet groceries and local products. Today, this level has been transformed into an elegant event space, complete with a bar, lounge area, and equipped catering kitchen, ideal for hosting receptions, talks, or intimate gatherings.
The lower level, accessed via a staircase that clearly speaks Siza’s architectural language — with clean, sculptural lines and precise material transitions — opens into a spacious event hall. This flexible space is suited for a wide range of uses: from art exhibitions and corporate presentations to wedding dinners and community celebrations. Throughout, the building reflects Siza’s minimalist sensibility, emphasizing light, proportion, and spatial clarity, making Nave Lagoa not just a venue, but an architectural experience in itself.
The Restaurant “Maze” by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Situated on the basement level into the lower level of the commercial building the former pizza restaurant known as “Maze” is one of Bom Sucesso’s hidden architectural gems.
Though closed for many years, this space reveals another layer of Álvaro Siza’s thoughtful design. In addition to a street-level entrance, the restaurant extends into a well-crafted basement level that opens onto a small sunken courtyard, creating a quiet, enclosed atmosphere.
Though currently unused, “Maze” remains a beautifully designed canvas, full of potential for revival.
13 Villas of Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort
Siza’s most visible residential project at Bom Sucesso is a set of 13 T4 villas along Rua das Pereiras (Lots 1–14), designed with white façades, geometric volumes, and a deep attention to orientation, privacy, and light. Of these, 10 have been completed, while 3 remain unbuilt.
Each house responds uniquely to its plot and context. The layouts emphasize indoor-outdoor flow, filtered natural light, and harmonious proportion — all classic Siza traits.
They are not just homes — they are livable sculpture
The potential of another iconic architect-designed streets by Álvaro Siza Vieira
Caminho do Lago, in Phase 2 of Bom Sucesso Resort, holds the remarkable potential to become one of Portugal’s iconic architect-designed streets. Álvaro Siza Vieira planned a sequence of 2 different villa designs here — 16 in total — carefully positioned to capture views over the golf course and the Óbidos Lagoon. Though most remain unbuilt, one unfinished, the designs are in place, and the vision is clear: a sculptural street defined by Siza’s minimalist language, where each home speaks with quiet power through proportion, light, and detail.
10 Additional Villas by Álvaro Siza Vieira in Phase 2 of Bom Sucesso Resort
Along Caminho do Lago in phase 2 of Bom Sucesso Resort Siza designed 10 more T3/T4 villas (Lots 223–227, 229–233) , on elevated terrain with sweeping views of the golf course and the Óbidos Lagoon. These villas remain except one unbuilt (1 unfinished, 8 unbuilt) and still waiting for future development.
6 Unbuilt Villas by Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort
Among the most intriguing projects in Siza’s Bom Sucesso portfolio are 6 unbuilt two-level villas with rooftop (Lots 234–239), featuring unique sculptural “window ears” — as seen in other buildings from him like the Porto School of Architecture.
Originally planned as part of a sub-condominium on Plot 156, these homes remain unrealized. In updated masterplans, the area has since been redefined into individual villa plots, offering new potential for private development.
We believe there are some variations from T3 to T4, positioning on the plot and building structure.
Detailed Publication about 13 Villas of Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort
A dedicated publication titled Álvaro Siza Design Process | Quinta do Bom Sucesso Housing Project (ISBN: 978-989-8481-29-0) offers an in-depth look at the 13 villas designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira at Bom Sucesso Resort. This book documents the full design journey — from initial sketches and conceptual studies to detailed architectural drawings and construction photos. It provides rare insight into Siza’s thought process, and has been studied by many architects worldwide.
Discover Portugal through its most stunning modern architecture—not just from the outside, but by living in it. These one-of-a-kind Modern Architecture Holiday Villas and design hotels, created by leading architects, invite you to step inside contemporary spaces shaped by light, landscape, and craftsmanship. Explore interior details, see rare images, and maybe even book a night in a work of architecture.
1. Tóló House by Álvaro Leite Siza Junior
3 bedrooms · Cerva, Vila Real · from €398/night
Image by Boutique
Sculptural living carved into the mountainside
Álvaro Leite Siza, son of Álvaro Siza Vieira, brings a bold and sculptural approach to contemporary Portuguese architecture. His work is known for geometric abstraction, strong spatial narratives, and deep engagement with landscape.
A concrete sanctuary immersed in nature
Tóló House cascades down a steep slope above the village of Cerva, responding to topography with angular forms and split-level interiors. The structure is anchored into the terrain, with concrete volumes opening to views, sun, and silence.
The interior unfolds in a sequence of living spaces, minimal bedrooms, and a kitchen-dining area, all connected by open stairs and terraces. Materials like raw concrete, wood, and glass blur the line between shelter and environment. Each level has outdoor access, and a small pool sits nestled in the slope—a meditative retreat for those who appreciate architecture as landscape.
What’s included
- 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom (sleeps 5)
- Panoramic terraces & plunge pool
- Open-plan living with fireplace
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Embedded into hillside for thermal comfort
2. Casa Na Terra by Aires Mateus
4 bedrooms · Monsaraz · from €350/night
Image by Silent Living
Architecture you feel, not just see
Set into the earth near the shores of Lake Alqueva, Casa Na Terra is not just a house—it’s a sanctuary. Designed by acclaimed Portuguese architect Manuel Aires Mateus, this extraordinary retreat in Alentejo almost disappears into the landscape, revealing itself only as you step inside. What looks like a grass-covered mound opens up to reveal sculpted interiors, curved concrete, warm acoustics, and silent light.
A subterranean refuge in the Alentejo plains
This house is a masterclass in architectural invisibility. With its organic footprint and natural insulation, it evokes deep calm and protection from the outside world. Four minimalist bedrooms are carved into the hillside, centered around a skylit interior corridor. The communal living and dining areas face the lake through wide openings, letting light and landscape pour in.
The building belongs to the Silent Living collection—a group of architecture-led stays across Portugal—and this may be its most profound experience. Summer swims in the lake, springtime walks through wildflowers, and long winter nights near the fire: every season here feels elemental.
What’s included
- 4 bedrooms (sleeps 8) with private bathrooms
- Lakefront setting & panoramic countryside views
- Minimalist kitchen, dining & lounge areas
- Daily breakfast & optional afternoon tea by housekeeper
- Designed by Aires Mateus
- 2.5-hour drive from Lisbon
3. Casa em Afife, by Guilherme Machado Vaz
3 bedrooms | Afife, Viana do Castelo | from €380 / night
Image by Boutique
Rooted in the cultural and topographic richness of northern Portugal, Casa em Afife is a sculptural yet sensitive architectural response to its village setting. Designed by Guilherme Machado Vaz—an architect known for blending contemporary clarity with historical nuance—the house stands near a granite chapel, balancing reverence with autonomy.
Its compact vertical form, square footprint, and rhythmic geometry abstract the vernacular architecture of the Minho region. Terraced half-floors follow the natural slope of the land, and the rooftop—its quiet “fifth elevation”—reveals shifting levels with deliberate restraint.
From the outside, the house appears monolithic and introverted. Yet when its large wooden shutters open, the interior unfolds in layers of light, texture, and narrative. Terrazzo and wood floors, brass detailing, and gently sloping doors create a tactile, timeless atmosphere that recalls tradition without mimicking it.
What’s included
- 3 bedrooms ideal for families or couples
- Private swimming pool mirroring the house’s geometric purity
- Fully equipped kitchen and dining area
- Rooftop terrace and multiple outdoor spaces
- Walkable access to restaurants, train station, and Afife beach
This is a house of quiet power—part sanctuary, part sculpture, and deeply in tune with its place.
4. Pura Comporta Villa by Falcão de Campos
3 suites + mezzanine | Comporta, Alentejo | €600–€1,550 / night
Image by Pura Comporta
Designed by Portuguese architect João Pedro Falcão de Campos, Comporta Villa is a minimalist beach retreat built for slow family living. Framed by pine dunes and rice fields, the house blends open views with deep privacy. A suspended terrace overlooks rural plains and the distant Serra da Arrábida coastline, while a private, heated pool sits tucked behind the house, offering seclusion and shade. Interiors feature refined design classics—from Siza-designed filmmaker chairs to Fredericia seating and Davide Groppi lighting—balanced by warm wood, natural textures, and thoughtful child-friendly details.
What’s included
- 3 ensuite bedrooms + mezzanine (sleeps up to 7)
- Heated pool, suspended sunset terrace
- Fully equipped Miele/Smeg kitchen
- Air conditioning, underfloor heating, fireplace
- Located in rural Comporta, 10 mins from the beach
5. Casa da Rampa Colares by Frederico Valsassina
4 bedrooms / 8 guests• Colares/Sintra • from €825/night
Image by Boutique
Modern Living Among the Pines
Casa da Rampa is a serene and sculptural modernist home set within a four-acre pine grove near Sintra’s coastline. Designed by award-winning architect Frederico Valsassina, the house showcases a low, horizontal form that gently cuts through the forest, framing the landscape with clean lines, glass, and whitewashed concrete.
This is a place where simplicity meets sophistication: pivoting walls blur inside and out, stone floors stay cool underfoot, and each room opens to its own balcony. The architecture fosters calm, clarity, and connection—with nature and with those you’re staying with.
Perfect for families or design lovers, Casa da Rampa offers spacious, sun-filled interiors, a fully equipped kitchen, and proximity to Sintra, Praia da Adraga, and Cabo da Roca.
What’s Included
- 4 bedrooms (each with private balcony)
- 4 full bathrooms
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Wi-Fi & TV
- Washer & dryer
- Architect-designed interiors
- Surrounded by natural reserve & pine forest
6. Casas na Areia by Aires Mateus
4 bedrooms · Comporta · from €500/night
Image by Silent Living: (Renée Rae, Tim Reed and Silje Kvernerland)
Sleep in a sand-floor cabin just minutes from the beach
Casas na Areia, designed by Manuel Aires Mateus, reimagines the traditional fisherman’s huts of the Sado Estuary. Part of Silent Living’s portfolio, the project gained international attention at the Venice Architecture Biennale for its blend of architecture, landscape, and atmosphere.
Living with sand, wood, and light
The house consists of four separate volumes—two made of thatched reed, two of white concrete—connected by a communal sand-floored living area. It’s a sensorial experience that invites guests to slow down and embrace nature. Barefoot luxury at its most elemental.
Bedrooms are intimate, cool, and minimal. The shared living and dining space feels like a modern pavilion, open to breezes and birdsong. Outside: a plunge pool, rice fields, and endless dunes.
What’s included
- 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (sleeps 8)
- Sand-floored living/dining area
- Outdoor pool with rice field views
- Full kitchen & daily breakfast
- 5 minutes from Comporta beach
7. Casa Atlantica, Setúbal by Manuel Aires Mateus
4 Bedrooms – Setúbal – from €1.242/night
Image by Boutique
Designed by architect Manuel Aires Mateus, Casa Atlantica is a striking modern beach house inspired by traditional Alentejo homes. Nestled on 17 acres of Mediterranean forest with stunning Atlantic views, it features four separate concrete structures with minimalist interiors, large windows, and a blend of contemporary and vintage furnishings.
The main house offers a bright living area with a fireplace, modern kitchen, dining space, and a master bedroom with a marble bath. Three independent bungalows each have en-suite bedrooms with sea views and patios. Outdoors, enjoy peaceful gardens, a pool, terraces, and a vegetable garden.
Located just an hour from Lisbon, near Melides beaches and the charming Alentejo countryside, it’s perfect for relaxing beach and nature escapes.
Features:
- Spacious living room with fireplace
- Fully equipped modern kitchen
- Master bedroom with marble bathroom
- Three separate bungalows with en-suite bathrooms
- Large windows with sea views
- Private pool and sun terraces
- Mediterranean garden and vegetable patch
- Close to Melides beaches and countryside
- About 1 hour from Lisbon
8. Vacances Esposende by António Corte-Real
Up to 15 People – Esposende – from €1.213/night
Image by Cosy Inside
Twenty-six holiday homes are perfectly set between river and marshland on one side, and a sand dune shielding the sea on the other. The design’s linear rhythm—highlighted by boundary walls, glazed room dividers, narrow pools, and elongated corridors—mirrors the natural landscape’s horizontal flow.
António Corte-Real, trained in the Porto School tradition, blends architecture with nature and place, emphasizing structure, detail, and landscape integration. His buildings express a deep connection to geography and territorial organization.
Features
- Sleeps up to 15 guests
- Variety of suites and rooms with king, super king, double, and single beds
- Private bathrooms with natural light, bathtubs, and showers
- Fully equipped kitchen (dishwasher, espresso & filter coffee machines)
- Spacious dining room for 15 people
- Panoramic lounge with pool access
- Heated swimming pool (May–October)
- Outdoor chill-out area, barbecue, and dining for 12
- Free parking
9. Otiima House by Carvalho Araújo
3 Bedrooms – União das freguesias de Caniçada e Soengas, Braga – from €890/night
OTIIMA House offers a fresh, modern design combined with comfort and coastal charm. Located just minutes from the stunning beaches of the Ria Formosa and the historic town of Olhão, this stylish home invites you to experience the best of the Algarve lifestyle.
Designed with clean lines and natural materials, OTIIMA House features spacious open-plan living areas flooded with natural light, two cozy bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. Step outside to your private terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding almond groves and sea beyond—perfect for morning coffees or sunset dinners.
Accommodation types:
- Double Bedroom with Garden View: Comfortable room with queen bed and ensuite bathroom. Access to the shared terrace. Breakfast included on request.
- Master Bedroom with Ensuite: Spacious room with king bed, ensuite bath, and private balcony overlooking the coast. Breakfast included on request.
Amenities:
- Air conditioning
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Washer and dryer
- On-site parking
- Outdoor terrace with seating
- Close proximity to local markets and restaurants
Additional Information:
OTIIMA House is ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to Algarve’s natural beauty and culture. The nearby Ria Formosa National Park offers hiking, cycling, and birdwatching, while the historic city of Faro is just a short drive away.
10. Casa Modesta by Pedro Campos Costa
8 rooms – Ria Formosa, Algarve – from €160/night
Image by Boutique
A restored family home turned rural guesthouse, Casa Modesta lies in the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park on the Algarve coast. Blending vernacular architecture with clean, contemporary design, this retreat is a peaceful base from which to explore southern Portugal’s delicate lagoon landscape.
Whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and shaded courtyards evoke the region’s rural traditions, while minimalist lines, custom furnishings, and exposed concrete details introduce a refined architectural clarity. The layout encourages a slow rhythm of living—between interior patios, a shared kitchen and living area, and rooftop terraces with views over the tidal wetlands.
Architect Pedro Campos Costa led the sensitive transformation, preserving the soul of the original house while integrating sustainable features like solar panels, natural ventilation, and regional materials. Casa Modesta is more than a holiday stay—it’s an immersion into the land, light, and legacy of the Algarve.
What’s included:
- 8 individually designed rooms with private terraces
- Rooftop views of the Ria Formosa lagoon
- Homemade breakfast with local produce
- Shaded gardens and orchard
- Walking distance to salt pans and cycling routes
- Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and solar-heated water
- Guided tours and experiences available on request
11. Casa Luum by Pedro Domingos
4 bedrooms – Santa Bárbara de Nexe, Faro – from 284/night
Image by Boutique
Nestled at the end of a dusty rural lane, Casa Luum emerges in the luminous hills near Faro as a minimalist masterpiece. Designed by Portuguese architect Pedro Domingos, the home is defined by its pristine white blocks, sharp geometric lines, and a proportional elegance that dialogues naturally with olive groves and sandy terrain. Inside, generous windows fill the interiors with light, reflecting the changing skies and surrounding greenery.
Every room opens onto private terraces, and interiors combine sleek comfort with local artisan touches—think Casa Cubista ceramics, bespoke textiles, and furniture crafted in the Algarve. A curated centerpiece retable fireplace by Alfonso Mila and Federico Correa harmonizes with the clean Scandinavian-like aesthetic of the living and dining areas. Reflecting a commitment to sustainability, the home employs solar energy, top-tier insulation, and passive climate design.
Set within a regenerating landscape designed by Sigmetum, the native gardens surround a serene sheltered pool and rooftop lounge. Whether gathered under stars or relaxing in natural shade, the architecture encourages pause—and connection.
As an architectural holiday rental, Casa Luum offers:
- Four light‑filled bedrooms with private terraces
- Cool white interiors, soaring lines, and architectural calm
- A rooted minimalism that embraces the Algarve’s textures—stone, light, and air
- Eco-conscious features: solar power, insulation, native planting
- Outdoor spaces designed for al fresco dining, rooftop sunset views, or quiet reading
- Close to coastal nature reserve, Faro’s beaches and markets, and the peaceful hilltown of Santa Bárbara
Experience contemporary architecture that breathes with landscape—Casa Luum invites guests to live slowly, clearly, beautifully.
12. Casa Sobral da Lagoa by Ricardo Bak Gordon
3 bedrooms · Sobral da Lagoa, Óbidos · from €141/night
Image By Ricardo Bak Gordon
An artist’s retreat overlooking the Atlantic, designed by one of Portugal’s contemporary masters
Ricardo Bak Gordon is one of Portugal’s most influential contemporary architects. Known for his poetic use of light, context-driven design, and a quiet rigor that balances tradition and modernity, Bak Gordon’s work often explores how architecture can embrace nature while respecting local materials and scale. His projects have been widely exhibited and published internationally.
Architecture in dialogue with the village and the ocean
Casa Sobral integrates seamlessly into the small village of Sobral da Lagoa, perched above the Óbidos Lagoon. Built for a pair of artists, the home reflects Bak Gordon’s refined sensitivity to landscape, topography, and light. From the street, its presence is discreet, respectful of the village’s rural fabric. But to the west, the house opens dramatically: two vast glazed bays frame one of the most stunning Atlantic vistas in Portugal.
The 280 m² layout unfolds across three levels: a double living space connects to the terrace and pool; bedrooms are arranged for privacy and calm; and a protected interior patio captures the sun while shielding from the wind. The stepped form, open circulation, and textured materials—stone, concrete, and wood—create a layered, sculptural interior that feels both grounded and elevated.
What’s included
- 3 quiet bedrooms (sleeps 6)
- 2 full bathrooms + guest WC
- Swimming pool and solarium terrace
- Enclosed wind-protected patio for outdoor dining
- Fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances
- Private garage + 2 additional parking spots
- Dedicated workspace & high-speed Wi-Fi
- Located 3 km from the medieval town of Óbidos
- Stunning ocean and lagoon views
From €141/night on Airbnb
13. SAAL Bouça Complex by Álvaro Siza Vieira
3 bedrooms · Porto · from €125/night
Image by Ben
Stay inside a landmark of Portuguese architecture and social history
Álvaro Siza Vieira is Portugal’s most internationally celebrated architect. A Pritzker Prize laureate, Siza is known for his masterful handling of space, light, and proportion. His work, often understated and rigorous, shaped the identity of post-revolutionary Portuguese architecture—none more so than his SAAL social housing projects.
A minimalist duplex in a revolutionary urban experiment
This carefully restored duplex sits inside the iconic Bouça housing complex in Porto, designed in the 1970s as part of the groundbreaking SAAL program. The architecture reflects Siza’s belief that good design should be accessible to all, combining functionality, clarity, and dignity in everyday spaces.
The apartment has a direct street entrance and is spread over two floors. The upper level includes a living/dining room, enclosed balcony, and fully equipped kitchen. Downstairs, you’ll find two bedrooms and split bathrooms, with a third room that doubles as a bedroom or shared space. Subtle design details and thoughtful furnishings create a minimalist yet warm environment, ideal for families, creatives, or design lovers.
What’s included
- 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms (sleeps 6)
- Fully equipped kitchen, laundry & workspace
- Balcony with garden view
- Free garage parking
- Child-friendly amenities
- Steps from Lapa metro station
14. Alto House by Manuel Gomes da Costa
21 rooms · Faro · from €80/night
Image by Alto House
A modernist revival in the heart of Faro
Gomes da Costa was a leading figure in the Algarve’s mid-20th-century architectural scene. His work blended Mediterranean influences with international modernism, shaping a built environment that was both progressive and rooted in place. Alto House, a recently revitalized gem in Faro, preserves his vision while offering a fresh, design-forward experience.
Stay in a living piece of Portuguese modernism
Set in an elevated neighborhood just 7 minutes from the city center, Alto House combines historic architecture with contemporary hospitality. Originally a modernist residential building, it’s been carefully reimagined for 21st-century travelers. The facade, layout, and interiors all retain the clarity and charm of mid-century Portuguese design.
Inside, each of the 21 compact rooms offers a unique perspective: some open onto private balconies with city or garden views, while others frame the building’s original staircase—a sculptural centerpiece of the experience. There’s no elevator, but the staircase is part of the story: a daily ascent through architectural history.
Start your morning with a modernist Mediterranean breakfast in the courtyard, then head to the rooftop for sweeping views over Faro and the Ria Formosa. Sustainability is part of the ethos here: from local sourcing to energy use, Alto House is designed for conscious living.
What’s included
- 21 rooms with private bathrooms (many with balconies & views)
- Mediterranean-style breakfast included
- Panoramic rooftop terrace & interior courtyard
- Free Wi-Fi & air conditioning
- Free public parking nearby
- Access to a public garden with multi-sport park
- 7-minute walk to Faro city center
15. The Modernist Faro: Live the Revival of a Movement
6 Suites · Faro · from €159/night
Image by The Modernist Faro
Welcome to The Modernist Faro. Why just visit when you can inhabit a living icon? This is more than a place to stay—it’s a tribute to Portuguese mid-century architecture, beautifully reimagined. Located in the vibrant heart of Faro, The Modernist invites you to step into the golden age of geometric lines, light-filled spaces, and pure design intent.
Here, six spacious suites—each 45m²—offer the comfort of a private apartment with a balcony or terrace, kitchenette, and access to a lush interior patio and panoramic rooftop. It’s design-led independence, with sunrise views over the Ria Formosa natural lagoon.
6 suites with private balcony or terrace | Kitchenettes | Rooftop views over Ria Formosa | Patio garden | Free WiFi | Air conditioning | Central Faro location | Eco-conscious hospitality
The Modernist: Designed with Purpose, Restored with Vision
Originally built in the early 1970s by architect Joel Santana, The Modernist is a landmark of Faro’s southern modernist wave—heavily influenced by Brazilian and international masters like Oscar Niemeyer and Le Corbusier. The recent restoration by award-winning Portuguese architecture studio Par honors every detail: the wood, stone, window frames, even the handmade door handles.
This isn’t just preservation—it’s Portuguese design at its most thoughtful. Everything, from lighting fixtures to the last piece of furniture, was crafted within 100 km of the site, reducing CO₂ footprint and championing the local creative economy.
Architecture
Set in what was once called “the ugliest building in Faro,” The Modernist is now a shining example of sustainable urban renewal. The transformation took three years, rooted in a deep commitment to authenticity, local craft, and mid-century aesthetics. The result? A building that doesn’t just look back—it points forward.
Modernism in Faro
Faro is home to over 500 modernist buildings, shaped by pioneering architects like Manuel Gomes da Costa, Fernando Távora, and Manuel Laginha. Their South Modernism—fueled by both global ideas and the unique light and lifestyle of the Algarve—turned Faro into an open-air gallery of modernist heritage. The Modernist honors this legacy, offering guests curated walking tours and even a playful “Modernist Game” to train your architect’s eye.
16. Pousada de Juventude de Viana do Castelo by Carrilho da Graça
Youth Hostel | Viana do Castelo | from €18 / night
Image by Ben
Nestled beside the serene River Lima, this youth hostel is a modernist gesture in a historic riverside setting. Designed by João Luís Carrilho da Graça, the hostel integrates two L-shaped wings around a cluster of mature trees, generating a welcoming central courtyard and natural meeting place at its heart.
Influenced by Le Corbusier and Corbusian aesthetics, the building’s white concrete façade was ultimately realized in standard concrete with an acrylic resin coating—an economical choice that nonetheless achieves a smooth, durable exterior finish . Its cantilevered balconies, rhythmic concrete slab edges, and generous glazing allow daylight to permeate deep into shared spaces.
The ground floor houses reception, communal areas, a café, and recreation rooms. Above, 25 well-proportioned rooms—including double and quadruple layouts—face either the park or the riverside and include private balconies designed to frame views and encourage cross-ventilation . Clean lines, muted color tones, and strategic shading reference international modern principles while remaining sensitive to the local climate and landscape.
What’s included
- Free parking nearby
- Private or shared rooms (doubles or dorms)
- En-suite or shared bathrooms (depending on room type)
- Bed linen and towels
- Free Wi-Fi
- Continental breakfast
- 24-hour reception
- Lounge and recreation areas
- Self-service kitchen
- On-site café
- Laundry facilities
- Riverside and park views
We recently had the privilege of listening to a fascinating interview with the renowned Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza, offering profound insights into his illustrious career, distinctive design philosophy, and iconic projects. Siza, a true master of his craft, shared his perspectives on the architecture of Alvaro Siza as an art form, the intricate relationship between built spaces and nature, and the enduring relevance of his work.
From Sculptor to Architect: A Journey of Passion
Siza’s journey into architecture wasn’t a straightforward one. He initially harbored aspirations of becoming a sculptor, exploring diverse interests in his youth, from firefighting to opera singing [01:27]. It was during his time at the School of Arts in Porto, where he immersed himself in painting, sculpture, and architecture, that his profound interest in the latter truly blossomed [01:52]. For Siza, architecture is unequivocally an art form, a belief he passionately defends, stating that viewing it otherwise is merely “an excuse to accept things that have not quality” [00:27].
Throughout his career, Alvaro Siza has exemplified the principles behind the architecture of Alvaro Siza, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions, which continues to inspire both students and fellow architects.
Bornova House: Harmonizing Architecture with Nature
One of the projects Siza discussed was the Bornova House, nestled in a breathtaking landscape. He emphasized the crucial relationship between architecture and nature [02:31], recounting the challenging yet rewarding experience of winning the competition for the project despite its rocky terrain, a feat achieved alongside architect Tavora [03:07]. This project exemplifies his commitment to integrating structures seamlessly into their natural surroundings.
Modernism and the Art of Timelessness
Carlos Gatin, a fellow Portuguese architect who collaborates with Siza, describes Siza not as an architect with a rigid style, but rather one who works within the continuity of modernism [04:08]. Gatin highlights Siza’s focus on the inherent reality of a project and the coherence between volume and space, particularly his masterful use of light [04:40]. This approach contributes to the enduring quality of his designs.
The Window: A Microcosm of Architectural Thought
Siza eloquently articulated the profound significance of the window in architecture, declaring that “all the problems of architecture are concentrated in the item of window” [05:05]. He elaborated on how the meticulous placement and detailing of a window necessitate a deep understanding of both interior and exterior spaces [05:15], underscoring the intricate thought process behind seemingly simple design elements.
Evolving Church Design and International Horizons
The interview also touched upon Siza’s design of a church in a small town north of Porto. He shared how the challenging topography led to a unique two-floor design [06:13] and how significant shifts in liturgy over centuries have rendered older church models obsolete, influencing his decision to incorporate a large opening to the valley in his design [07:06].
Siza’s influence extends far beyond Portugal’s borders. He expressed his enjoyment in working internationally, citing projects in diverse locations such as Manhattan, China, Mexico, and Italy [07:59]. His experiences in China, which he first visited a decade ago for the B House Museum [08:34], revealed a “wish for quality” in the country’s architectural endeavors [09:10].
An Enduring Legacy
Gatin aptly summarized Siza’s enduring appeal, praising his open-mindedness, which keeps him “a young person in a sense” despite his age [10:11]. He further noted that Siza’s projects, even those dating back 65 years, remain remarkably relevant and “not old-fashioned,” truly embodying the concept of “timelessness” [10:25].
Alvaro Siza’s interview offers a compelling glimpse into the mind of a visionary architect whose work transcends fleeting trends, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of modern architecture.
We’re excited to share a true gem for fans of Portuguese architecture: the RTP series Magazine de Arquitectura e Decoração, originally recorded in 1992 and re-aired between 2016 and 2017, is now available for free streaming on RTP Play.
Presented by the late architect Manuel Graça Dias, the series explores the life, ideas, and projects of some of the most notable names in contemporary Portuguese architecture — including many of the architects who contributed to the vision of Bom Sucesso Resort.
Architects Featured in the Series Who Shaped Bom Sucess
Several episodes focus on architects who designed some of the most iconic houses at Bom Sucesso:
- Álvaro Siza Vieira – [Episode 21]
- Eduardo Souto de Moura – [Episode 18]
- João Luís Carrilho da Graça – [Episode 19]
- Gonçalo Byrne – [Episode 6]
- Alcino Soutinho – [Episode 15]
These architects played a central role in the original master plan and villa designs for Bom Sucesso — many of which are now occupied, some still unbuilt, and others slowly returning to life thanks to renewed interest in the resort’s bold architectural legacy.
A Historic Archive Worth Watching
Each episode is about 25 minutes long, offering rare footage, insightful interviews, and in many cases, early documentation of buildings that are now part of Portugal’s architectural heritage.
This series was originally produced by Zebra Produções, directed by Edgar Feldman and Rui Simões, with authorship by Isabel Colaço, José Perdigão, and Manuel Graça Dias. It’s not only a valuable record of late 20th-century architectural thinking in Portugal, but also a reminder of the intellectual and artistic energy that shaped Bom Sucesso.
Watch the full series (in Portuguese) on RTP Play here: Magazine de Arquitectura e Decoração – RTP
We’re thrilled to have gained access to the archive of Atelier dos Remédios, the studio of Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos, whose work has shaped much of Bom Sucesso Resort’s built identity—and whose unbuilt designs continue to spark the imagination.Thanks to their generosity, we now have access to sketches, early plans, and photographs by the renowned photographer Fernando Guerra | FG+SG, capturing these homes before residents moved in. These rare materials enrich our understanding of the resort’s early ambition, and they shed light on many projects that were never realized.
Naming the Alphabet
The architects shared the background about the origins of their naming:
“Initially, we developed the four house types simultaneously. To differentiate them internally, we began referring to them by letters based on their shapes—hence, the L, I, X, and O Houses.
L and I were the more functional homes; X and O were spatially richer—the X House focusing on interconnected open space, and the O House seeking a more poetic atmosphere. Later, in Phase 2, we returned to the alphabet with the K House for plots 356–360.”
Looking at their contribution across all phases, it becomes clear that Atelier dos Remédios designed one of the most diverse and ambitious collections of houses at Bom Sucesso. Here’s a brief overview of their work.
Phase 1 of Bom Sucesso Resort
10 Casa O at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
6 Casa L at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
6 Casa X at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
6 Casa I at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
18 White Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
18 Red Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Phase 2 of Bom Sucesso Resort
8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
The set of eight houses, made up of two different typologies, T3 and T4, borders the main street to the south and the golf green to the north. This led to the placement of each house away from the access road, as well as a common language for all the facades of the set that face the golf course.
The houses are the result of the combination of geometric shapes that define a porch or an exterior entrance patio and the interior distribution gallery.
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
House Type 1 of 8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Ben PortugalModern.com
House Type 2 of 8 Single-Family Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Laurent Gravier PortugalModern.com
© Laurent Gravier PortugalModern.com
5 Casa K/360 at Bom Sucesso Resort by Madalena Cardoso de Menezes and Francisco Teixeira Bastos
© Ben PortugalModern.com
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort
Alongside this body of work, the studio also designed several unbuilt houses for Phases 3 and 4, which had been planned in 2008 as part of a major resort expansion.
ZigZag Row House unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Casa R unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Casa Bac unbuilt Phase 3 Bom Sucesso Resort
© Madalena Cardoso de Menezes, Francisco Teixeira Bastos
Fun Fact: A Final Puzzle Solved
One final piece of the Bom Sucesso Architecture Puzzle: the architect of the former Bom Sucesso Sales Office was long unknown to us. Madalena Cardoso de Menezes clarified that the project was designed by her brother, Gonçalo Cardoso de Menezes—who also contributed a set of villas and townhouses. It is the first Building of the Bom Sucesso Resort.
© Ben PortugalModern.com
During the early construction phase of the first houses at Bom Sucesso Resort, the interior construction materials display center was located in a side building on the construction site.
It was a space where architects and new owners could choose interior finishes — such as bathroom tiles, flooring, and other materials. We’ve recently received some images of this showroom, showing the options available at the time.
Most houses share similar interiors, including the characteristic handmade tiles — especially in the bathrooms, where colorful options like white, yellow, red, and others were offered.
See more Images of the Interior Construction Materials Show room below.
Door Handles and Taps at Bom Sucesso Designed by Souto de Moura and Álvaro Siza Vieira
The door handles and some bathroom fittings were supplied by CBC – Carvalho, Batista & C.ª Lda, based in Porto. Many of these pieces were designed by Eduardo Souto de Moura or Álvaro Siza Vieira.
Several houses feature taps designed by Souto de Moura, customized with Bom Sucesso branding — a unique detail that blends architectural design with the resort’s identity.
CBC has a fantastic showroom in Porto that is well worth a visit. On the upper floor, you’ll also find a selection of furniture pieces designed by Portuguese architects.
Website: carvalhobatista.pt
Address: here
Images of Bom Successo Interior Construction Materials Show Room
All images copyrights are by Josep Llinás.
We’ve been in touch with many of the architects who helped design Bom Sucesso, and I’m thrilled to share that they’ve been incredibly supportive — sending drawings, photographs, and stories for PortugalModern.com. Many more insights are on the way!
It’s inspiring to see how much they care and how excited they are that the original vision for the resort is being revived — step by step — by the residents and the community.
Today, I want to immediately share something truly special.
While exchanging messages with Josep Llinás — the only Spanish architect involved in the project, and a recipient of Spain’s highest architectural honor, the Gold Medal for Architecture — he sent me a rare set of images: photos of the original 3D model of Bom Sucesso Resort, which was once displayed in the sales office.
First owners of Bom Sucesso recall that there were actually two Models: one was permanently installed at the resort’s sales office, and another was a traveling model. It was exhibited internationally — seen in Amsterdam, and also presented in London and Ireland — as part of the original promotion of the resort.
Many people told me this model was lost when the resort went bankrupt. But now, thanks to these images, it has resurfaced — and for me, it’s absolutely breathtaking.
The model shows the very first version of the master plan, and you’ll notice some differences from what was eventually built. For example, a large building was originally placed on the opposite side of the commercial zone. Other subtle variations in the villas appear here and there. I assume the red dots may mark houses that had already been sold at that time.
I believe this is an incredible piece of the resort’s history — and a powerful reminder of the bold architectural vision that brought Bom Sucesso to life.
Enjoy the images — and let’s keep building on this shared legacy.
A big thank-you to Josep Llinás. More original plans will be published here soon!
All images copyrights are by Josep Llinás.
Portugal Modern is proud to share a look into an interesting residential projects at Bom Sucesso Resort. Architect Nuno Brandão Costa has generously granted us access to early photographs, architectural drawings, and documentation of the houses before they were inhabited — offering a rare glimpse into the clarity and intention of the original design.
Located along Rua da Lagoa in Bom Sucesso, Óbidos, this project consists of seven T4 villas designed 2005. Of the seven, four were completed and built; two remain unbuilt, giving the site a quiet, unfinished rhythm that echoes the broader experimental nature of the resort.
From the outside, the houses appear as floating, horizontal slabs — green roof gardens that seem to hover above the land. Beneath these planted stone roofs lie the living and functional spaces, carefully separated yet architecturally unified. The patios in front of the bedrooms open onto the roof gardens, creating a seamless link between interior and landscape.
Inside, each house is organized around a simple, open floor plan. Living rooms stretch toward views of the golf course and the nearby pond, angled to catch light and sightlines. A continuous window band, precisely 1.60 meters high, frames the landscape throughout the interior, ensuring that the outside is never far from view.
At the entrance, a staircase leads directly to the rooftop — inviting residents to ascend and experience the full breadth of the valley. As the architect puts it, these are “seven squared bowls to garden,” designed with just enough thickness to shelter life within.
This project is a quiet but powerful example of Portuguese contemporary architecture — a blend of rigor, restraint, and spatial generosity that reflects Nuno Brandão Costa’s signature approach. We are honored to feature it on Portugal Modern and look forward to sharing more images and plans from the archive soon.
Copyrights of all Images by Arménio Teixeira and Nuno Brandão Costa
Nuno Brandão Costa Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort
Interview with Nuno Brandão Costa – Get to Know His Work and Vision
Thanks to the generosity of Manuel Aires Mateus, PortugalModern.com is proud to present access to the architect’s archive for his work at Bom Sucesso Resort. This includes original architectural drawings, 3D model images, and photographs by Francisco Caseiro capturing the houses before they were inhabited. This rare material offers a privileged glimpse into the unfiltered vision behind one of Portugal’s most refined and conceptually driven contributions to contemporary housing.
© Image by Aires Mateus
Stereotomic Silence: Aires Mateus at Bom Sucesso Resort
Nestled near the medieval town of Óbidos, Bom Sucesso Resort is a bold experiment in modern living, featuring over 600 villas designed by 23 of Portugal’s most celebrated architects. Amid this diverse architectural tapestry, the work of Aires Mateus stands out for its sculptural restraint, spatial clarity, and philosophical depth.
Stereotomy in Architecture: Design by Erasure
The work of Aires Mateus is deeply rooted in stereotomy—a design technique where mass is carved, hollowed, or cleared to define space. Unlike additive methods, stereotomy creates form through subtraction. In the hands of Aires Mateus, this approach becomes poetic: spaces are revealed by what is removed, and voids become as expressive as solids.
Their architecture is often described as “design by erasure,” where excavated masses expose silence, light, and proportion. The result is a minimalist language that speaks volumes — balancing presence and absence, light and shadow, material and void.
This philosophy is clearly manifested in their Bom Sucesso work.
The White Blocks of Bom Sucesso
The 12 villas (T3–T4) and 7 row houses (T2–T3) by Manuel and Francisco Aires Mateus are locally referred to as “The White Blocks” — and for good reason. These bright, cubic volumes are visually striking, yet quietly integrated into the landscape. Their clarity is not only formal but functional.
- The villas are arranged along an east–west axis, with the houses facing east and the swimming pools placed to the west. This orientation ensures ample sun exposure and maximizes the garden space between neighboring units, enhancing privacy and spatial fluidity.
- Their thick, white structural walls recall the solid vernacular architecture of Portugal’s past, lending the homes a sense of permanence and rootedness.
- The row houses on Rua do Sol Poente echo this language in a more compact configuration. A shared garden and pool, landscaped roofs, and enclosed courtyards reinforce a strong connection to the outdoors while maintaining privacy.
As Manuel Aires Mateus put it:
“The houses are located to the east and the swimming pools to the west, freeing up as much space as possible for the garden between neighboring houses. This disposition affords lighting and a spatial perception related, as I remember, to the thick, solid house walls of days gone by.”
Architecture in Harmony with Nature
The Aires Mateus houses at Bom Sucesso are not simply objects in the landscape — they are part of the landscape. Their orientation, minimal openings, internal patios, and use of light invite a meditative experience of space. This is not architecture for display, but for living quietly, thoughtfully, and with deep spatial awareness.
The project includes:
- Lot 146–176: 12 villas (T3–T4), of which 8 remain unbuilt and 1 is unfinished
- Lot 143: 7 row houses (T2–T3), completed and in use
Each house is a study in balance: openness and enclosure, light and shade, intimacy and openness. Together, they form a subtle but powerful architectural ensemble that reflects the intellectual rigor and poetic minimalism for which Aires Mateus is internationally recognized.
A Living Archive Now Online
Thanks to the generosity of Aires Mateus and the photography of Francisco Caseiro, we are now able to showcase this extraordinary project in detail — with access to original 3D models, floor plans, and pre-occupation images that reveal the clarity of the original design intent.
You can explore the full gallery and drawings on the PortugalModern.com project page:
Visit the Aires Mateus Bom Sucesso Archive → here
© Images by Francisco Caseiro, Aires Mateus
© Images by Aires Mateus
Bom Sucesso is many things — a resort, a village, an architectural manifesto.
And within it, the work of Aires Mateus represents a moment of silent clarity —where architecture becomes the art of carving space,and the void becomes the voice.
Nestled just 20 minutes from Porto, this remarkable property in Santo Tirso is not just a home — it’s a conversation between two generations of the Porto School of Architecture.
The main house was designed in the 1970s by Noé Diniz, one of the unsung heroes of modern Portuguese architecture. A mentor to Eduardo Souto de Moura, whom he called his “first companion,” Dinis worked closely with Álvaro Siza Vieira during a formative period for both architects. This villa reflects that legacy — blending international modernism with traditional Portuguese elements like warm wooden ceilings, natural stone fireplaces, and strong indoor-outdoor connections.
Decades later, the architectural narrative of the property evolved with the addition of a multipurpose pavilion designed by Maria Luísa Penha Souto de Moura, Eduardo’s wife and a respected architect in her own right. Her intervention introduced a more contemporary language: expansive glazing, bold red-toned concrete, and clean geometric lines — creating a powerful architectural dialogue across time.
A Home With Soul and Substance
Set on a generous 2,380 m² plot, the property includes:
- 4+1 bedrooms, spread over 255 m² of private gross area
- A saltwater swimming pool
- A private tennis court
- A natural lake with lotus flowers
- An independent 68 m² pavilion, by Luísa Penha ideal for guests or creative work
- Mature landscaping with fruit trees and space for gardening or entertaining
Inside, the home flows effortlessly from space to space, thanks to renovations by the Porto-based architecture studio Bastir, who carefully preserved the building’s character while improving functionality and comfort.
Though the home is in move-in condition, it offers room for restoration or customization — an invitation for new owners to continue the architectural story.
Context: Santo Tirso, a Hidden Cultural Gem
Santo Tirso has become an unlikely hub of contemporary architecture. It is home to the International Museum of Contemporary Sculpture, and just minutes away, you’ll find projects by Álvaro Siza Vieira, Eduardo Souto de Moura, and other architectural landmarks such as:
- Casa António Carlos Siza
- Museum of International Contemporary Sculpture
- Quartel dos Bombeiros Voluntários de Santo Tirso
With its architectural pedigree, tranquil surroundings, and proximity to Porto, this property stands out as a rare opportunity — a true piece of living history designed by hands that shaped modern Portuguese architecture.
Nuno Graça Moura is a leading Portuguese architect from Porto known for his refined modernist approach and strong sensitivity to place and form. An influential figure in contemporary Portuguese architecture, his work blends rigorous design with a deep understanding of landscape and context.
With 20 projects at Bom Sucesso Resort, Nuno Graça Moura is the architect with the most constructions within the Design Resort. His portfolio includes a wide range of building types: from villas and row houses to key public and infrastructure buildings that define the character of the resort.
At PortugalModern.com, we are honored to have received exclusive access to the architect’s archive related to Bom Sucesso Resort. This includes almost 200 images — including photographs, 3D models, floor plans, and rare documentation of houses before they were occupied — offering a unique glimpse into the design vision behind the built environment.
Among the realized projects are:
- Five different villa types
- Three types of row houses, including the now-iconic Bar Code houses — for which he received design awards from Germany and Spain
- Public and service buildings such as the Pool Bar, Golf Clubhouse, Tennis Club, and the Golf Maintenance Facility
One of the more curious parts of his legacy is the Dog Hotel — an facility which never got into operations, originally imagined as a dedicated space where residents could leave their dogs while staying at Bom Sucesso. Although the concept never became operational, it reflects the playful and ambitious spirit of the resort’s early planning.
In addition to built work, we gained access to unreleased material from Phase 3 of the resort, which was never realized. This includes designs for three villas and one row house, as well as the urban plan for the area, which Nuno Graça Moura also developed. Phase 3, located west of the existing resort area, is currently on the market for €5,5 million, alongside a more recent building proposal (see here).
On the interior side, his attention to detail extended to elements such as custom marble sinks seen in the Bar Code houses and a unique lighting design for the Club Bar (which is no longer installed).
We are deeply grateful to Nuno Graça Moura and his team for their trust in sharing this historical archive with us. It is a privilege to help preserve and celebrate the architectural legacy of Bom Sucesso Resort.
Nuno Graça Moura’s Phase 1 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort:
2 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
4 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
8 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
8 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
13 Villas at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Nuno Graça Moura’s Row Houses at Phase 1 of Bom Sucesso:
Bar Code 1 – 30 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Bar Code 2 – 12 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
24 Row Houses at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Infrastructure and Public Buildings:
Pool Bar at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Tennis Club at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Golf Clubhouse at Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Dog Hotel, unbuilt. (click here)
Nuno Graça Moura’s Unbuilt Projects for Phase 3 and 4:
Urban Plan of Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
Draft of Urban Plan of Not Realized Phase 4 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
4 Unbuilt Villas of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort
5 Unbuilt Villas of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
11 Unbuilt Row Houses of the Unrealized Phase 3 of Bom Sucesso Resort (click here)
All Images in this Post by Nuno Graça Moura, copy rights reserved!
You may have recently discovered Bom Sucesso Resort as the unique modern design project that it is. The resort offers a rare opportunity to build or complete villas designed by some of the most renowned architects in Portugal — including Álvaro Siza Vieira, Eduardo Souto de Moura, João Luís Carrilho da Graça, Aires Mateus, Alcino Soutinho and internationally by David Chipperfield from the UK.
With many unbuilt or partially built plots still available, Bom Sucesso presents a chance to create your own exceptional property within this architectural masterpiece. However, building within a resort of this nature — with strict design standards, a special legal framework, and an active condominium administration — requires careful planning.
Here are a few important things you need to consider before starting to build at Bom Sucesso.
1. Ownership Structure
- All properties are part of a Tourist Village with plural (multi-unit) ownership, legally governed by the Title Deed and Administration Regulation.
- You are buying exclusive ownership of your unit but are strictly bound by the Condominium and Resort-wide regulations.
- See Regulations here
2. Architectural Control & Design Approval
Strict architectural standards apply:
- No independent exterior modifications allowed without prior written consent.
- All works (including interior renovations that affect structure or visible aesthetics) require:
- Administration approval.
- Architect’s approval (original architect or approved designer).
These restrictions protect the unified architectural image of Bom Sucesso as a design resort. Which is good, that no one can built a three level pink house in front of you 🙂
Specific Notes for New Builds:
- On each plot, the house design is defined by the architect and needs to be approved by the specific architect assigned to that plot.
- If the original architect has passed away, their legal successors (e.g., children) may act on their behalf. For example, for Alcino Soutinho, his daughter (who is also an architect) handles approvals.
- The City of Óbidos does not hold full house design plans. They only hold general plot allocation approvals. This allows for some flexibility if approved by the architect.
- Architects expect to be paid for their design work. Some real estate agents advertise the plots as “approved projects” — this is not correct. The architect will ask for payment for the design project. They were not paid originally by the resort’s first developer (who went bankrupt).
- Some architects handle the process themselves, others work with external partners. Costs reported range between €10,000 and €80,000, depending on the architect.
3. Hidden Cost of €5,000 per Plot
- Due to the bankruptcy of the original promoter, buyers of unfinished plots must pay €5,000 per plot to the bankruptcy creditors.
4. Construction Schedule Restrictions (Summer Ban)
- No works allowed during June, July, August, and September, except for urgent repairs that cannot be postponed.
- In practice, the condominium tends to enforce this rule more strictly between July 15 and September 15. Always double-check with the administration.
- Outside these months, works must:
- Respect quiet hours (no disturbing noise before 7:00 or after 23:00).
- Avoid disturbing resort operations or guests.
5. Works Inside Your Unit (Interior Changes)
Even interior works may require approval if:
- They change layouts, plumbing, facades, or structural elements.
- They affect shared infrastructure.
Minor interior works (pure decoration or furniture) generally do not require formal approval, but it is recommended to inform the administration.
6. Permits & Legal Authorizations
You may need:
- Municipal permits for structural works.
- Internal administration approval.
- Architectural review.
Important:
Even with a municipal building permit, you must comply with resort regulations.
7. Who Controls the Process?
- Administration (BS Villas) – usually the tourism operator or its designated manager is your main contact.
- Architectural Committee (or architect of record) – must approve designs.
- Owners’ General Assembly – may need to approve major alterations.
8. Penalties for Unauthorized Works
Starting works without proper authorization may lead to:
- Fines.
- Legal actions.
- Forced removal or restoration at the owner’s expense.
Before You Buy a Plot at Bom Sucesso — 3 Important Steps:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Regulations
Carefully review the Bom Sucesso condominium rules (here) as well as the specific regulations for Touristic Villas (Moradias Turísticas) under the national guidelines established by Turismo de Portugal. Always request the latest versions directly from the condominium office. And a lawyer consultancy for explanation is recommended.
2. Review the Original House Plan
Check the original architectural plans for the plot. Many of these are available on Portugal Modern (here) and can give you valuable insight into the intended design and constraints.
3. Contact the Architect Early
Before purchasing, reach out to the architect responsible for the plot. Make sure they are available and open to any adjustments or design changes you may have in mind.
If you need a contact to an architect, I’m happy to help you.
By following these steps, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what’s possible and avoid surprises later in the process.
Portugal Modern is pleased to announce the addition of exclusive 3D renderings of Carlos Prata’s remarkable six-villa project at Bom Sucesso Resort. Of the six planned houses, two have already been built as part of the resort’s secound development phase.
Positioned on an elevated site, these villas offer outstanding panoramic views over the Óbidos Lagoon, the city of Caldas da Rainha, and the iconic Óbidos Castle. Their orientation and placement take full advantage of the natural topography, enhancing the architectural experience with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
Carlos Prata is a distinguished Portuguese architect known for his meticulous urban planning and refined architectural language. A graduate of the Escola Superior de Belas-Artes do Porto, he later founded his own studio and has delivered acclaimed works such as the Douro Breakwaters, the CUF Institute, and the Hotel and Tourism School of Porto. In addition to his built work, Prata has played a significant role in architectural education through his professorship at the University of Porto.
We hope to see the remaining villas brought to life in the near future, completing what promises to be one of Bom Sucesso’s most elegant and carefully composed ensembles.
Explore the project and all renderings here: 6 Villas by Carlos Prata at Bom Sucesso Resort
A big thank you to Carlos Prata and Team for sharing the 3D renderings with Portugal Modern.