Tropical Social Living

Brief

This tropical outdoor renovation project focused exclusively on transforming the exterior living areas of a private residence located in the Rio Mar condominium, in Barra da Tijuca. The scope included a complete redesign of the pool deck, creation of a fully integrated sauna with direct access to the pool, and the construction of a covered extension to expand the usable outdoor living space. We also designed and built new outdoor bathrooms and changing rooms, reimagined the landscaping, and developed a gourmet area complete with custom finishes, lighting, and a new barbecue station. Special attention was given to creating functional, elegant, and inviting spaces for entertaining, with the highlight being a custom vertical garden with lighting and irrigation system.

Location
Rio Mar Condominium – Barra da Tijuca, Brazil
Area
3,500 SqFt
Completion:
2008
Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar

Concept

The design concept was guided by the desire to create a seamless connection between nature and architecture. Using organic materials such as wood, fiber, and stone, combined with a neutral palette and tropical vegetation, we achieved a harmonious, modern retreat that elevates outdoor living. This space was designed to be more than beautiful — it was made to be lived in. The vertical garden serves not only as a striking visual element but also enhances the microclimate, while curated lighting brings the ambiance to life at night. The overall aesthetic aligns with our signature approach to interior design in Miami and beyond: soulful, functional, and inspiring.

Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar

Layout

The layout prioritizes fluid transitions between the lounge, dining, and pool areas, enhancing cross-circulation and making the space highly adaptable for social gatherings. Each zone — from the gourmet kitchen to the shaded living nook — was designed with both privacy and connection in mind. The external bathrooms offer convenience without compromising aesthetics, while the smart distribution of built-in elements ensures a clean and cohesive visual language. This project embodies the tropical modern lifestyle — sophisticated, inviting, and tailored for outdoor entertaining.

Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar
Residence Rio Mar