A remarkable residential project in the heart of the Amazon has successfully merged contemporary architecture with indigenous landscape preservation. The Pupunha House, designed by Laurent Troost Architectures in collaboration with Hana Eto Gall Paisagismo, stands as a testament to environmentally conscious design in Manaus, Brazil. The 230-square-meter residence, completed in 2023, demonstrates how modern living spaces can coexist harmoniously with existing natural ecosystems.
Located within a residential condominium in the western zone of Manaus, the house sits adjacent to an area designated for permanent environmental protection. The architects prioritized preserving the existing greenery while creating a compact and efficient living space that responds directly to the Amazonian landscape. The project's name derives from the pupunha palm tree that occupies the center of the lot, which was carefully preserved throughout the construction process and now serves as a focal point of both the architectural and landscaping concept.
The design philosophy centered on creating a direct dialogue between the built environment and the surrounding Amazon rainforest. Hana Eto Gall's landscape architecture seamlessly integrates native plant species around the residence, making vegetation an essential component of the overall design strategy rather than an afterthought. This approach ensures that the house feels like a natural extension of the forest rather than an intrusion upon it.
Photographed by Joana França, the project showcases how contemporary Brazilian residential architecture can embrace sustainability while maintaining modern comfort and functionality. The collaboration between Laurent Troost Architectures and Hana Eto Gall Paisagismo represents a growing trend in South American architecture that prioritizes environmental stewardship alongside innovative design solutions.
The construction process involved careful coordination between multiple specialists, including interior designer Chris Coimbre, structural engineer Silvio Heimbecker, and construction managers Helena Rabello and Daniel Herszon. Model work was completed by Lucila Melgueiro and Bareporanga, ensuring that every aspect of the project maintained the highest standards of craftsmanship and environmental sensitivity.
This project exemplifies how architectural practices can contribute to conservation efforts while meeting the housing needs of growing urban populations. The Pupunha House serves as a model for future residential developments in ecologically sensitive areas, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can coexist when thoughtful design principles guide the development process.
