Casa França: A Family Retreat in the Heart of São Paulo

Amid the fast pace of São Paulo, Casa França, a project by Fernanda Marques Arquitetura, redefines the concept of an urban home. The renovation was based on the existing structure on the site, preserving only the essential elements of the original construction. The goal was clear from the start: to create a retreat that combined the relaxed spirit of a summer house with the functionality required to accommodate a couple and their four children, two babies and two teenagers.

To meet the needs of different age groups, the house was carefully redesigned, with spaces dedicated to both children such as a playroom and TV room and adults, who enjoy amenities like a gym, sauna, spa, and an inviting gourmet area. The integration between spaces unfolds naturally, with generous openings and the constant presence of greenery, particularly in the large entrance hall, where an impressive vertical garden frames the arrival and sets the tone for the entire residence.

Functional Elegance: A Home that Unites Design, Art, and Well-Being

The choice of materials and finishes reinforces the timelessness that defines the project. Travertine marble, known for its durability and natural beauty, contrasts subtly with the slatted wood used on walls and ceilings, creating a sophisticated sense of warmth. This blend of warm and cool textures appears both indoors and, on the facade, strengthening the visual unity of the project. A highlight is the natural marble dining table, custom-designed by the firm, which brings a rustic yet elegant touch to the space.

Inside, the furnishings were curated to enhance both the artwork and the surrounding landscape. Neutral tones, clean lines, and refined textures provide a serene backdrop for sculptures by Túlio Pinto and artworks by Vik Muniz, Daniel Senise, among others, as well as signature design pieces, including coffee tables, dining tables, sofas, and chairs by Jader Almeida, Flos lighting fixtures, and the Ondine armchair, which adds a special pop of color.

Spread across four levels, the house features the social and leisure areas on the ground floor, garage and service areas in the basement, the children’s suites, master suite, and an intimate TV room on the upper floor, and wellness spaces on the rooftop. “The biggest challenge was to create a multifunctional home, full of activities and possibilities, without compromising the aesthetic and sophistication that define our studio’s identity. The result is a project that encourages family bonding and a deeper connection with nature,” says Fernanda.