A Nova Lima apartment designed by Jacobsen Arquitetura brings together Brazilian minimalism, natural materials and long, striking vistas of the surrounding Minas Gerais state in a tour de force that becomes a warm, family urban oasis. The apartment interior design, a duplex residence right at the top of a high-rise, was cleverly crafted with a dual aspect – celebrating the urban sprawl on one side, and the region's winding mountain range and abundant nature on the other.
Step inside a Nova Lima apartment by Jacobsen Arquitetura
The complex's lower level features the main entrance and the home's entertaining and social spaces – centred on a flowing, generous al fresco living area, complete with its own swimming pool and strip glazing that offers panoramic views.
This large 'veranda' with tall, airy ceilings adds a connection to the outdoors, even at this height, while the living areas are protected from heat by wooden brise-soleils. A home office, a wine cellar and the kitchen, which connects with the dining room and the gourmet area, complete the living spaces.
A round, sculptural staircase connects the two floors but goes beyond being just a circulation tool. Its dramatic timber volume forms an interior centrepiece, highlighted further by the vertical brise-soleil slats that surround and elevate it with their verticality.
‘As the light passes through the gaps, rhythmic shadows dance throughout the day, constantly moving,' the architects write in their statement on the project.
The upper level contains the home's more private areas, including the principal bedroom suite, the children's suites, a playroom and a home cinema. A service area links directly to the floor below through its own, dedicated staircase that leads to the kitchen.
The furniture is composed of vintage and contemporary finds that blend Brazilian and Italian pieces. Designers such as Jorge Zalszupin, Claudia Moreira Salles and Roberto Lazzeroni, feature throughout.
Meanwhile, artwork by Vik Muniz, Daniel Senise and Laura Vinci dots the apartment – with a large tapestry by Norberto Nicola by the entrance setting the tone.
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