D.S.

Situated in a spacious apartment in Barra da Tijuca, this 17 sq. m. gourmet balcony was redesigned to serve as the ultimate gathering point for a family with ties to the technology and finance sectors. 

The central challenge was to provide the space with a new visual identity while maintaining the original layout, elevating the aesthetic standard through a targeted and sophisticated renovation. The project’s concept is anchored in the intelligent use of natural textures and the creation of a visual unity that organizes the environment’s different functions, transforming the outdoor area into an authentic and welcoming extension of the social zone.

The zoning was planned to ensure both dynamism and comfort: at one end, a lounge area invites relaxation; in the center, the dining table anchors social interaction; and at the opposite end, the technical area houses the barbecue grill and countertop. The bespoke millwork in Cumaru wood is the project’s standout feature, utilizing 1×1 slatted panels that masterfully conceal cabinets, walls, and the grill’s structure, resulting in a clean and continuous perspective. To ensure longevity in an open-air environment, high-performance materials were specified, such as ultra-compact stone countertops and water-repellent fabrics for cushions and rugs, merging durability with a refined aesthetic.

The project’s atmosphere is defined by the balance between the rustic nature of wood and the modernity of technological finishes, evoking the contemporary freshness characteristic of Estúdio Popa. The use of Cumaru wood, in harmony with accent lighting and a curated selection of decor, creates a setting where the robustness required for outdoor elements does not compromise visual lightness. Every detail—from the cabinet joinery that hides the countertop’s thickness to the choice of the green ottoman and curated landscaping—was designed to evoke the feeling of an urban retreat, transforming the balcony into a meaningful space for family life.