Lourdes Apartment by Pedro Felix Arquitetura

_project: Lourdes Apartment
_architecture: Pedro Felix
_location: Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Embodying one's architectural vision in the design of their own living space can be both a liberating and daunting venture. It's a rare canvas that allows architects to unreservedly channel their personal aesthetics and functional preferences into a structure. The Lourdes Apartment project is a striking testament to this journey. Architect Pedro Felix didn’t merely sketch a blueprint; he narrated a personal story through bricks, mortar, and elegant design aesthetics, as he set out to design his own home. While being an opportunity for creative expression, it also posed a myriad of challenges inherent to the dual role of being both the client and the architect.

Taking on the dual role of a client and an architect, Pedro embarked on a journey laden with opportunities and challenges unique to this scenario. Being the client, he had an absolute understanding of the needs, desires, and idiosyncrasies that were to be catered to, an advantage seldom enjoyed by architects. This innate comprehension allowed for a design that is deeply personalized, bearing the hallmark of his aesthetic inclinations and functional preferences.

Conversely, the path was strewn with challenges that tested Pedro’s professional rigor. The emotional attachment to the space could potentially cloud objective judgment, leading to decisions more whimsical than practical. Moreover, the lack of an external client created a vacuum of critical feedback, which is crucial for refining architectural solutions. The usual back-and-forth between client and architect that often leads to matured design solutions was a solo endeavor in this case.

However, the Lourdes Apartment is a testimony to Pedro’s capability to navigate through these intertwined roles successfully. The apartment exudes a serene ambiance, with meticulously chosen materials and color palettes reflecting both the architect's professional finesse and personal style. The spaces within are thoughtfully delineated, offering a blend of openness and intimacy, mirroring Pedro’s understanding of a holistic living experience.

Furthermore, the project became a canvas for exploring and manifesting ideas that are dear to Pedro. It’s a fertile ground where the seeds of creativity got to sprout, unencumbered by typical client-architect constraints. This liberty fueled a design process that is as introspective as it is innovative.

The Lourdes Apartment project is more than just a residence; it's an autobiographical sketch of Pedro Felix, articulating the nuanced dynamics between personal involvement and professional detachment. The project illuminates the path for architects who might find themselves in a similar juncture, showcasing that with a balanced approach, it’s possible to turn the challenges of designing one’s own space into opportunities for self-expression and architectural exploration.

_article written by Daniela Moreira da Silva
_film by Architecture Hunter
_cover and image scroll by Fran Parente