SAA Arquitectura's Casa Gaviota Project on Lake Rupanco, Chile

The design team described Casa Amona, a project located on an urban lot in San Cristóbal de las Casas, near one of the city's main green areas. The residence was conceived to maintain a reserved connection with the street, directing its internal dynamics toward the interior of the property. Different openings and patios were used to create visual links both with the surrounding landscape and with the living spaces themselves.

With a total built area of 155 m², the architectural program is distributed across two floors, functioning as a set of functionally distinct units. On the ground floor, there is the living room, dining room, and kitchen, forming a continuous space that includes a full bathroom. This level's layout allows the living room to be adapted to function as a master bedroom without major structural changes, anticipating various uses over time.

The upper floor houses the most intimate spaces—bedroom, studio, and terrace—which have a direct connection to the views offered by the hill. Additionally, there is an independent 45 m² atelier, designed to accommodate artistic activities and family gatherings, which also features its own private room and autonomous bathroom.

This atelier opens onto a patio that was organized around an existing ash tree. In this patio, native vegetation and a small pond form an urban micro-habitat integrated into the residential complex.

In terms of materials, the project utilizes masonry, exposed brick, non-structural adobe, and cypress wood, the latter being fundamental in elements such as roofing, frames, and custom furniture. The finish with whitewashed plaster, combined with wood and clay tile floors, extends between the internal and external spaces, resulting in architecture designed to age gracefully.

The name Amona, which means grandmother in the Basque language, reflects a specific vital need and names a house intended to harmonize domestic life, creative work, and family gatherings.

After selecting isolated houses within 100 km of São Paulo, Belo Horizonte has become an area of interest. In close proximity to the capital of Minas Gerais, there are places such as Nova Lima, Serra do Cipó, and Brumadinho, where houses, estates, and complexes are available, perfectly suited for relaxation. Below is a selection of 10 properties from the Airbnb rental platform, located within 100 km of BH.

House in Casa Branca (Brumadinho), 35 km from Belo Horizonte

This accommodation option boasts an excellent location: it is situated at the foot of the Serra do Rola Moça State Park, near a stream with crystal-clear water, 18 km from Inhotim, and not far from local waterfalls. The small but very cozy space, equipped with a fireplace, a full kitchen, and a hydromassage, is ideal for a romantic weekend, although the bungalow comfortably accommodates up to four people.

A tenant review by Sofia (February 2026) states: 'The stay is in a well-marked, quiet, and clean complex. Despite having another house on the Carlos property, the bungalow is very secluded. The place is beautiful, with many fruit trees, a comfortable bed, a kitchen with all necessary amenities, and a bathroom in perfect condition. In addition to the company of friends Dinyu, a cute and well-behaved dog; and Pepe, a affectionate but mischievous cat. The only comment is to replace or fix a suitable bin, as Pepe sometimes got into it. It rained on the last night, and we lost internet access. But this did not affect our experience at all. I recommend and plan to return.'

House in Brumadinho, 60 km from Belo Horizonte

A loft located in a gated community in the rural area of Brumadinho, away from mining routes, presents an oasis for couples. Inside, there is a queen-sized bed, a smart TV, and a fully equipped kitchen. The outdoor area features a jacuzzi and a built-in fireplace. Surrounded by trees, birds, and wildlife, this property is 8 km from the center of Brumadinho and 9 km from Inhotim.

Heloísa shared her impressions: 'Perfect stay. The hosts were attentive and responded quickly, even creating a WhatsApp group to simplify all communication, which played a big role. The stay was clean, organized, and cozy. We also received a pleasant surprise for my birthday, which made the trip even more unforgettable. Excellent value for money for those visiting Inhotim who want to relax and enjoy a moment of rest.'

House in Brumadinho, 60 km from Belo Horizonte

A bungalow with stunning views of Serra da Moeda is designed for two guests and offers a terrace with a hydromassage tub, a natural shower, and a barbecue area, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. For lovers of extreme sports, the location is ideal: the property is only 150 meters from the takeoff strip for free flight in Brumadinho. The nearest alternative and scenic route is 32 km to Inhotim.

Meriane noted: 'A pleasant and cozy place, everything was organized and clean. Calmness and privacy are strong points, as well as, of course, the wonderful view of the moon and mountains! From the first contact, Bruno's instructions were clear and matched what we found upon arrival. We will definitely be back soon.'

House in Piedade, 30 km from Belo Horizonte

This small estate has an extensive green area surrounded by local vegetation, is located near a stream, and has some animals—horses, chickens, and dogs. It is ideal for a couple's getaway but accommodates up to three people in a bedroom with one double and one single bed. The bungalow is also equipped with a full kitchen, grill, shower, and sun loungers. The property is 25 km from Inhotim, and its location is perfect for active recreation enthusiasts such as mountain biking, free flight, and hiking.

User Paula wrote: 'We had a great weekend in the bungalow! The place is quiet and surrounded by beautiful nature. The outdoor kitchen is charming, and it was very useful for us: we came with a child and could make noise while cooking without disturbing his sleep. Everaldo was helpful, polite, and attentive. We want to come back another time.'

House in Nova Lima, 20 km from Belo Horizonte

In a gated community, the house is located on a 2000 m² property of local vegetation and fruit trees—an ideal place to disconnect and relax. There are three bedrooms accommodating up to ten guests. The main feature of the estate is the outdoor area: a pool, grill, pizza oven, huge flower lawn, and mountain views. Nearby are waterfalls and the Topo do Mundo viewpoint, which has a large ramp for paragliding and delta wing jumping. Inhotim and Ouro Preto are just over an hour's drive away.

João Carlos noted: 'It was a very good stay. There were seven of us, including 3 children. It was raining, but it didn't prevent the little ones from enjoying the space and the pool. Yara is very friendly and did not cause problems accepting friends from BH on some evenings, which was great for us. The caretaker José Mauro is a fantastic person. Very attentive and caring; when we went out in the evening, he turned on the gate lights so we could get there easily. It is important to understand that the house is a small estate/chácara, so the furniture and entire structure are in a rustic style. The complex's location is good: 20 minutes to BH Shopping, 50 minutes to Inhotim, and 2 hours to Ouro Preto.'

House in Nova Lima, 23 km from Belo Horizonte

Located in the mountains inside a closed complex, this property combines simplicity and coziness. The house accommodates up to six guests in three bedrooms, has a fully equipped kitchen, and balconies with views of the Serra. Since it is in the middle of nature, guests can take walks in the surroundings, and it is not uncommon to encounter monkeys, jaguars, and tapirs. From here, one can reach Ouro Preto or BH Shopping nearby.

Gabriel highly rated: 'Maria's house needs no comment: excellent location, very close to BH, well-equipped, from the kitchen with everything necessary to enough blankets for cold days. The view is very beautiful, and it is comfortable. Maria was always responsive and available.'

House in Brumadinho, 60 km from Belo Horizonte

The straight lines of this house stand out among the hills. It is designed for two guests, features a king-size bed, a heated infinity pool, a bath, and a fully equipped kitchen. Large windows offer beautiful views of Serra da Moeda from all sides. This house is also the only one on a 3200 m² property, guaranteeing privacy for the couple.

Juliana described: 'Exceptional stay. An incredible house, with complete comfort, perfectly prepared for our reception, and with beautiful architecture. Not to mention the magical view of the mountains, the stargazing net, and the breathtaking sunset by the fire. The atmosphere is extremely pleasant and fragrant! It was like home, or even better. Chris and Natasha took care of everything from start to finish, always responding very promptly. They are the most expensive! We will return a thousand times; we can't wait.'

House in Pedro Leopoldo, 40 km from Belo Horizonte

The estate accommodates up to 15 guests and has a spacious area and full infrastructure, including a grill, equipped kitchen, internet, viewpoint, and even a nearby lake for fishing. The main highlight of the house is undoubtedly its veranda with magnificent views of the endless trees and hills.

User Paula reported: 'Great for a weekend with friends/family and relaxing. Cozy decor, very comfortable bedrooms (all suites) and kitchen utensils that performed well. We were hosted by Ellen and Dayane, chefs recommended by the owner, who cooked delicious food. Daniel is incredible: he helped, answered all questions, and allowed us to feel free. Highly recommend.'

House in Serra do Cipó, 100 km from Belo Horizonte

The ranch is designed in a simple and cozy rustic style with wooden elements, relaxation nets, horses, clay filters, and lots of greenery—the perfect setting for quiet days in nature. The two floors accommodate up to twelve people. Among the merits, the pool with a natural waterfall right in front of the house stands out. Waterfalls are also located a 25-minute walk away.

Bruno Henrique Lucas Masiel called 'Rancho Lapa Negra' a 'masterpiece', simply wonderful. 'Everything was perfect, clean, and organized. Monica is very helpful and attentive, helping us with everything we needed, and even recommended excellent tours. We look forward to the next visit.'

House in Rio Asima, 45 km from Belo Horizonte

In a gated community, the house is surrounded by local vegetation, gardens, and waterfalls—a total of eight practically secluded waterfalls, easily accessible via trails. The building has two floors and a rustic charm, with salvaged doors and windows. Four bedrooms accommodate up to eight guests, and the full kitchen is equipped with a wood-burning stove.

A tenant review emphasized: 'The house is very cozy. It has everything we need in terms of utensils and amenities. The region is beautiful, with wonderful waterfalls and natural pools.'

Casa Sassi, located in a residential condominium in Caxias do Sul, in Serra Gaúcha, occupies a fenced double plot, with native forest in the background. The considerable size of the lot allowed the residence to be implemented centrally, keeping it away from the side boundaries, and directing the main openings towards the natural landscape.

The architectural project is structured as a square perimeter block that integrates an internal patio. This design blends references from modern and traditional architecture, presenting them in a contemporary language. The modern influence is notable in the compositional rigor, the strong horizontality, the absence of applied ornaments, and the clear organization of the architectural components.

The traditional references, although subtle, include the internal patio, which evokes the Roman domus and functions as a welcoming atrium, adjacent to an external vestibule that guides access and precedes the social areas. Furthermore, the underground level, whose walls are clad in rustic stone, alludes to the cellars of old Italian immigrant homes, honoring the family origin of the owners linked to the city's history.

The organization of spaces follows the same intention of compositional clarity: the social areas are located in the central part of the house, connecting the arrival atrium to the spacious rear veranda, facing the forest. The private wing, composed of bedrooms, is positioned to the east, while the service area, to the west, includes the kitchen, which relates to the living rooms through a core that defines but does not isolate this space.

This distribution ensures a clear separation between the different sectors of the house without compromising the fluidity of the communal spaces or the interaction between the interior and the exterior. The arrival process avoids the immediate exposure of the door, guiding the visitor through a succession of environments to the atrium and social zones. From the rear veranda, there is a transition to the garden and the forest, while the intimate sector maintains a more reserved position.

The orientation of the primary openings towards the interior of the lot ensures the privacy of the residents without limiting the breadth of the visual connection with the surrounding scenery. This feature is particularly relevant in the social spaces, where a large skylight allows vegetation to be seen beyond the horizontal limits.

From a construction point of view, materials in their natural state were prioritized, highlighting exposed concrete on the slabs and Corten steel on the front and rear facades. Due to the low local temperatures, special attention was paid to thermal comfort, implementing double walls, insulated glazing frames, and thermal insulation in the slabs.

In Casa Sassi, the interaction with the landscape is defined less by total transparency and more by how the openings, paths, and visual frames are organized. The forest is a constant element in the main social spaces, and the arrangement of the rooms and the various levels of opening manage to preserve both the privacy and the well-being of the residents. Thus, the broad connection with the exterior does not negate the inherent limits of the dwelling, but rather contributes to establishing its domestic character.