Japú House by AIA Estúdio: A Horizontal Retreat in Rio's Mountains

In the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, the Japú House by AIA Estúdio has been completed in 2025. The project, led by architect Alice Tepedino, was curated by Susanna Moreira and photographed by Pedro Kok. The 376 m² residence is strategically placed on a plot where the landscape dictated its positioning. Through earthmoving, a narrow flat strip was created between contour lines, allowing the program to be distributed longitudinally, fostering a sense of continuity and horizontality with the surroundings. The design team included João Carrascosa, Matheus Amorim, and Michel Zalis, with civil engineering by Roberto Badalcconi and Bernardo Bertone. Materials and furnishings were sourced from Móveis Balduci and Ros Dormentes (Carpintaria). The house exemplifies a harmonious integration with its natural setting, emphasizing a horizontal architectural language that responds to the topography.