— Villa

Villa Brezo

A Villa Dominating the Top of a Mountain

A house that buries itself into the slope to gain privacy, preserve the land’s natural shape, and open only to sea, where the valley becomes part of the home.

The concept behind this house comes directly from the plot itself, which presents several constraints. A steep slope of up to 56%, rising from southwest to northeast, and a road to the north and east that imposes on the site and takes away privacy.
 
To create a house that is as respectful as possible to its natural surroundings—and to avoid a tall, dominant structure—a large part of the house is hidden underground so it doesn’t alter the topography.
 
This approach allows the house to sit quietly within the landscape, shaped by the terrain rather than standing above it.

The house opens primarily to the west, where it cantilevers over the slope to enjoy views of the valley—without ever breaking away from the land’s natural form.
 
The overhanging platforms preserve and integrate the existing trees, creating a generous garden composed of both new vegetation and the original Mediterranean pines.
 
Brezo is a retreat hidden beneath the valley, where architecture and nature coexist in balance.

Difficulties
— Plot exposed to a public road
— Topographical slope of up to 56%
Achieved goals
— Complete privacy within the home
— Terraces featuring natural gardens
— Natural topography fully preserved
Awards
  • German Design Awards 2025
    German Design Council
  • New York Architectural Design Awards 2024
    International Awards Associate
  • Villa Brezo
    A Home Coronating the Top of a Mountain