The design of the outdoor spaces of Mansão da Rua Nova, located in Aljezur, results from the reconfiguration of the buiding’s program, which combines two distinct uses: residential, in the main building, and tourist accommodation in the remaining units. Given the layout of the site it is through these exterior areas that the different uses of the complex are connected, ensuring access to the property and its individual units, as well as private and shared outdoor spaces.
The outdoor access do the property is established in the courtyard located in the northern limit, at the lower level of the intervention area. This provides both pedestrian access and vehicle access — the latter exclusively for loading and unloading — to the pathway that runs alongside the common garden and connect the entrances to the accommodation units private courtyards. This path ends at the courtyard that articulates the common spaces with the private outdoor areas associated with the residence.
The outdoor areas belonging to the residence are distributed across two levels — corresponding to the ground floor and first floor of the building — and are designed as extensions of the interior program. The garden is located on the first floor and unites two areas with distinct yet complementary functions: next to the residence, there is an outdoor dining and lounge area shaded by a pergola; at the western edge of the site, the highest point of the property, the swimming pool, sun deck, and lounge area are positioned to overlook the surrounding landscape. The courtyard at the southern end of the residence, built over the pre-existing cistern, defines a contemplative outdoor area centered around a water feature and bordered by a set of benches.
