Situated in the lush Algarve region in Southern Portugal, Casa Agostos stands as a testament to modern architectural brilliance and the serene beauty of rural landscapes. This holiday home, designed by Pedro Domingos Arquitectos, manages what seems impossible to many; to masterfully adapt and reuse an existing derelict building to bring new life to the area. We were lucky enough to visit this favourite of ours from the DOMfriends collection, and we wanted to bring you along for the journey.

The architects approached the design of Casa Agostos with a clear vision: to create a minimalist space that harmonises with the surrounding nature while providing all the comforts of a modern retreat. It’s a beautiful blend of contemporary design with the rustic charm of the countryside and it works great in this setting. With respect to the existing environment being at the centre of this, using materials and design elements that reflect the region's traditional architecture made perfect sense. 

The exterior walls clad in white stucco nod to the traditional whitewashed houses of the region, while the interior features polished concrete floors and wooden accents that add warmth and texture. While the original structure fit three comfortable bedrooms and two bathrooms, an annexe was added to create space for the communal areas, a kitchen and a large living room with a fireplace. The flow is seamless and it’s complemented by the fact that most rooms open up to the garden, reflecting this notion of indoor/outdoor living that is unique to the Mediterranean.

Inside, the concrete flooring and linear shapes provide a subtle canvas for the large windows which frame stunning views of the garden and the fields that lie below. It’s a luxury in itself to be immersed in nature in this way. The house has several patios, terraces, and a rooftop but the pièce de résistance for most is the 15-meter-long pool, which partly sinks into the ground and defines the border of the property. Its minimalist design creates a lavish yet understated aesthetic.

While the villa itself is a heaven that you probably won’t be willing to leave, we also cannot recommend enough to explore the Algarve. Being the southernmost area of Portugal, the region is famous for its stunning coastline. From sandy shores to hidden coves, there's a beach for every type. We recommend Praia da Rocha and Praia da Falésia if you prefer a large, cosmopolitan option but we would advise you to adventure to a more secluded destination, such Praia de Dona Ana, a hidden gem with steep cliffs and crystal clear waters that we love for its unique beauty.

Casa Agostos is more than just a holiday home; it is a retreat for the soul that offers a perfect blend of modernity and nature! The combination of the incredible architecture and modern comforts of the villa and the natural beauty of the Algarve truly left us feeling rejuvenated and inspired. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a luxurious base, Casa Agostos promises an unforgettable experience and we can’t wait to come back.

The villa is available for bookings via DOMstay. If you liked this story, make sure to check out our visit to Casa Luum, the sister property of Casa Agostos also located in the sunny Algarve.

Photography by Fernando Guerra

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