Welcome to my DOM: Casa Luum
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of the Algarve in Portugal, Casa Luum is a hidden gem that beckons travelers seeking a serene setting with contemporary elegance. This tranquil oasis designed by Pedro Domingos Arquitectos offers a unique blend of modern architecture and a deep connection to its natural surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of good design.
The property has always been a favorite of ours from the DOMfriends collection, so we had to organize a visit and thought it would be wonderful to take you along.
As one arrives at Casa Luum, what quickly becomes apparent is the importance of the seamless integration of the property with the natural environment. The architecture is a testament to thoughtful, considered design and every element has carefully been selected to prioritize a harmonious cohabitation with nature and the views. It’s a subtle exercise in the balancing of scales, but the subtleness doesn’t go unappreciated.
The villa itself boasts a minimalist aesthetic, with large openings and bold clean lines that create an impactful visual within the beauty of the Algarve countryside. With several outdoor areas, whitewashed exterior ‘rooms’ and roof terraces, it feels like you’re actually living outside.
It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the noise of city life and immerse yourself in the sounds, and sights, of nature. Here, every room offers rustic views of hills or peaceful private court yards. Even the kitchen cleverly opens up to the courtyard with a large pivoting window to allow guests to enjoy meals in nature even on the rare occasion that the weather doesn’t allow it. We were rather lucky and spent all of our time outdoors - wining, dining and laughing under the Mediterranean sun.
Sustainability and eco-conscious thinking are, of course, at the heart of the design, with the locally sourced materials reflecting the notion of indoor/outdoor living. Wood, ceramics, and other natural textures dominate the villa's interior to create an ambiance of warmth and earthiness but distinct is also the use of natural stone for the pool, kitchen counters, and bathrooms.
Despite its emphasis on nature, Casa Luum doesn't lack any modern comforts. The villa is well-equipped with luxurious amenities, including a beautiful swimming pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and a stylish living room with a fireplace. The 4 bedrooms blend the contemporary with the organic, creating an environment that's aesthetically pleasing but incredibly serene, bathed in natural light with its connection to the landscape. Coming from a grey summer in London makes waking up to these views feel like you’re still dreaming.
While the villa itself is a sanctuary, we also cannot recommend enough the Algarve. If you’re a curious traveler, the region opens up a world of exploration. Being the southernmost area of Portugal, it's famous for its stunning coastline, and Casa Luum is just a short drive from some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. From pristine sandy shores to rugged cliffs and hidden coves, there's a beach for every type. Praia da Rocha and Praia da Falésia are excellent choices if you prefer a larger, more popular option that ticks all the boxes but we would advise to adventure to a more secluded destination. Praia de Dona Ana is without a doubt one of the most picturesque beaches, with steep cliffs and crystal clear waters that we loved for its unique beauty.
We could not have been more impressed with our visit to Casa Luum! The combination of the incredible architecture and modern comfort of the villa and the natural beauty of the Algarve truly left us feeling rejuvenated and inspired. Leaving this holiday, I think we all felt an even deeper appreciation for the harmony that can exist between architecture and the landscape. If you're planning a trip to Portugal and crave a serene escape, Casa Luum should undoubtedly be on your list of must-visit destinations. We’ll be back soon!
Casa Luum is available for bookings via DOMstay. Please also get in touch if might be interested in buying the property and would like to schedule a visit.
Photography by Voytek Ketz
Latest Stories
