The São Paulo home of architect and studio founder Arthur Casas adapts to contemporary daily life with spatial fluidity.
Recently completed in 2024, the residence within a mixed-use complex designed entirely by Studio Arthur Casas in the São Paulo financial district is very different from the architect’s previous home—a 1940s house designed by architect Artigas in the Pacaembu neighbourhood. The house where Casas lived for close to thirty-five years had become larger than really needed. “I was curious to experience a more urban rhythm,” he says.
Created primarily for Casas and his wife with rooms that adjust to accommodate the couple’s children when they visit, the design of the apartment is quite straightforward. Making the most of the floor plan, the “main objective was to eliminate wasted space and create a very efficient layout. Everything is integrated and designed with a specific function in mind”. Casas notes that “in that sense, the apartment reflects very closely the way I live today.”
The detailing of joinery and furniture reflects “a conscious effort to adapt to daily life, with spatial fluidity, integrated systems, and aesthetic intention” Casas says. “There are works of art, ceramics, small objects I’ve collected over time, and pieces by designers I admire. They coexist quite naturally in the space. I think the same principle applies to our projects—the goal is always to create environments where architecture, objects and materials feel balanced and true.”
A table by Arthur Casas in canela wood slats is flanked by B&B Italia Flair’o armchairs, with sculptures from Rafael Oboé, Liuba Wolf, Ilha do Ferro, and Rhodes.
Designed to conceal appliances and optimise the space, the kitchen features the Disco stool by Studio Arthur Casas with Studio Objeto and Neolith basalt grey countertops. A sliding door integrates the kitchen seamlessly with the social area which can be closed off as needed.
Throughout the apartment, a continuous timber ceiling links the spaces with mostly neutral and controlled interiors. “I chose a very restrained palette—mostly wood and stone because natural materials bring warmth and a sense of permanence.” Casas explains the “idea was not to rely on strong colours, but to let light, volumes and texture define the atmosphere of the spaces.”
Reflecting on more than thirty-five years of practice in both local and international contexts, including New York, Lisbon, Paris, Tokyo, Dubrovnik, and Rio de Janeiro, the studio’s work is influenced by modernist and contemporary architecture and design. For Casas, that means that new homes should be planned to be flexible. “Living in the apartment reinforced this belief that contemporary housing needs to be adaptable—an office can become a guest room, social areas can expand or contract. Spaces today should be able to change throughout the day and over time, responding to different moments in life rather than following rigid programs.”
Welcoming the opportunity to design an entire complex from restaurant fixtures and fittings, a green square, environmentally efficient brise soleil shading, rainwater collection, and finishes and layout across typologies, apartment living has more than met Casas’ expectations. “It’s a way of living that feels very connected to the city but still intimate.”
Walls are intentionally neutral displaying a collection of sculptures, books, photographs, cherished objects, and design pieces.
Studio designed furniture, including finishes and coverings create a cohesive and immersive environment. Pictured: Arthur Casas and his wife.
In the living room, the Fusca sofa by Arthur Casas with Micasa takes centre stage, accompanied by Bauhaus chairs by Franco Albini and Joe Colombo Elda armchair and a Flos Toio lamp. A custom coffee table by Arthur Casas showcases his own collection of Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics featuring collaborations with Ai Weiwei, Tunga, and Rosângela Rennó. Pictured: Artworks by Mira Schendel, Carlito Carvalhosa, Anna Maria Maiolino, and Waltércio Caldas.
Vintage table lamps and technical lighting such as the Marset Ledtube and a ceramic lamp by California Studio in the primary suite. Pictured: Giuseppe Scapinelli armchair and Via Appia marble nightstand. Tupi side table by Arthur Casas for Etel.
A brise soleil provides architectural shading reducing energy consumption. Water harvesting and reuse systems improve efficiency, while photovoltaic panels provide a sustainable energy source for common areas.
