Nestled in the heart of a lush tropical forest in Brazil, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant life, the superb Canopy House rises high above the ground to provide magical views of its green surroundings.
It was designed by Studio mk27 and completed in 2023 – a house carefully placed among the trees to create a peaceful connection with its serene natural surroundings.
Perched on stilts, this contemporary house allows the forest floor to remain undisturbed, preserving the delicate ecosystem below and creating a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.
A Hidden Gem in the Forest
The house is beautifully positioned above the steep hills of Guarujá in the south eastern part of Brazil, and its design respects the natural contours of the land, letting the surrounding greenery thrive without interference.
The structure’s white, minimalist exterior stands in gentle contrast to the vivid greens of the forest, blending into the environment while maintaining its unique architectural form.
From its elevated platform, the Canopy house opens to sweeping views of the tree canopy – probably that’s how it got its name, right?
This strategic positioning creates a tranquil atmosphere throughout, allowing its residents to immerse themselves in the natural rhythms of the forest.
The shifting patterns of light and shadow bring the landscape to life, offering a serene and dynamic view throughout the day.
Moving Through the Trees
As you move closer to the house you’ll be impressed by a spiral staircase that connects the ground to the elevated living spaces. Each step draws you deeper into the forest, surrounded by the rustling of leaves and the earthy scent of the jungle.
This thoughtful design aims to create a sensory connection to the natural surroundings, making the transition from the forest floor to the home above feel seamless and intentional.
Speaking of transitions, there are also sliding glass panels that blur the boundary between the house and the outdoors. These panels allow light to flood the interior, shifting and changing as the day progresses.
The open design allows every corner of the home to feel connected to the outside world, welcoming the natural environment into daily life.
The elevated platform on which this house is built stretches into the treetops, providing a peaceful place to pause and absorb the sights and sounds of the jungle.
Brazilian Craftsmanship
Studio mk27 also wanted to create a unique atmosphere inside this house as well, with a design that reflects the richness of Brazilian culture and craftsmanship.
Cobogó blocks, crafted specifically for this project, create intricate patterns of light and shadow, to add depth and texture to the space.
These ever-changing patterns bring a sense of movement and energy to the interiors, echoing the vitality of the forest outside.
Straw pendants hang gracefully from the ceilings, complementing the warm tones of wooden furniture and walls.
Each furniture piece is carefully chosen for this project, from the mashrabiya sliding panels to a handcrafted coffee table by Pedro Petry. Sculptures by José Bezerra add a touch of artistry as well, connecting the interior to the natural elements that inspired it.
Rugs, hammocks, and armchairs highlight the diversity of fabrics and materials found in Brazil. These details create a warm, inviting atmosphere, to make the entire home feel personal and lived-in.
Concrete walls provide a grounding element, balancing the organic materials with a modern aesthetic. Together, these features create a home that feels both culturally rich and deeply connected to its surroundings.
A House Filled with Light
As we’ve mentioned earlier, light plays a central role in the design of the Canopy House.
As the sun moves across the sky, its rays filter through the glass panels and cobogó blocks, to create unique patterns on the walls and floors. These shifting patterns bring life to the interiors, connecting the space to the dynamic energy of the forest.
The open-plan layout of the house enhances this connection, encouraging movement and interaction. Living spaces flow naturally into one another, with large windows framing views of the treetops and sky.
Even the more private areas of the home maintain a sense of openness, to make sure nature is always present wherever you might go.
The elevated platform offers a quiet retreat, surrounded by treetops. It’s a space for reflection and relaxation, where the sights and sounds of the jungle create a calming backdrop.
Every detail of the house fosters a connection to the forest, making it feel like an integral part of the environment rather than a separate structure.
Designed for Harmony
Studio mk27’s Canopy House is a fine example on how thoughtful architecture can coexist with nature. The elevated structure where its built protects the forest floor, while the use of natural materials and Brazilian craftsmanship honors the local culture.
The result is a home that feels grounded in its surroundings yet open to the beauty and vitality of the natural world. It’s a quiet retreat where simplicity and balance take center stage and residents could live in harmony with nature.
Photography: Fernando Guerra | FG+SG
