Deep in Portugal’s Alentejo region, in the charming town of Monsaraz, a hidden gem known as Casa na Terra awaits your discovery. It’s a contemporary interpretation of our most primitive dwelling – the cave. Originally designed as a private residence, it has evolved into an exclusive weekend escape, graciously offered for rent by Silent Living. This architectural marvel, brought to life by Aires Mateus, eludes the casual observer, concealed beneath the Earth’s surface, accessible only via a narrow crevice in the ground.
As you venture inside, the subterranean world unfolds before your eyes, revealing a harmonious blend of man-made design and nature’s grandeur. At its core, a sprawling meadow and a tranquil lake invite contemplation. Casa na Terra seamlessly separates into two distinct realms – the private and the communal.
The heart of the social space houses the living and dining areas, where a wooden dining table ingeniously integrates into the kitchen sink cabinet. These two rooms feature remarkable window openings, magnificent full-height sliding doors that offer an uninterrupted connection to the surrounding landscape. The pièce de résistance is the striking canopy adorned with a circular skylight, an architectural marvel that not only shelters the communal areas but also extends to an outdoor patio.
The private quarter is home to three standard suites, each an oasis of comfort, featuring a bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. Specially designed circular patios clad in white glazed tiles embrace the sun, infusing a soft radiance into these sanctuaries. In a playful twist, these patios house three windows, facilitating fluid interactions between the bedroom, the bathroom, and other social spaces, like the kitchen and living room.
There is no room for embellishment; monochromatic shades of gray envelop the walls, the concrete, and the furnishings. An exception awaits in the entrance hall, where thick birch wood panels exude a touch of warmth and rustic allure.
This space is a testament to minimalism, stripping away distractions to reveal the essence. Here, your senses are free to engage with the most profound element – the natural surroundings in all their glory. Casa na Terra is an underground masterpiece that lets nature’s beauty take center stage.
Travel Plan→
Casa Na Terra is 2 hours by car from Lisbon and just 5 minutes away from from Monsaraz and the Alqueva Beach.