Vale da Lama

Expansion and Integration

The expansion plan for Casa Vale da Lama faced challenges due to the existing building's location, the surrounding landscape, and strict regulations mandating compactness, which required the design to incorporate just one building. The presence of centuries-old trees further complicated the process.

Despite these obstacles, the solution ingeniously resolved the dichotomy between the front and back of the existing hotel. Furthermore, by articulating three volumes on the ground, unique outdoor spaces were crafted, each with its own qualities, including various uses, weather conditions, tree species, plantations, vistas, and natural atmospheres.

This articulation not only ensures efficient logistics with its compactness but also redefines the building's perception. By avoiding a dominating presence atop the hill, it offers a building from multiple partial perspectives, seamlessly blending it into the landscape.

Climate comfort design

From the early concept, the solution has consistently prioritized a seamless connection with the exterior, leveraging the favorable Algarve climate. Inspired by local tradition, we've integrated roof terraces and platforms into our design, inviting guests to embrace the region's culture of outdoor socializing and well-being. This contemporary aesthetic blends modern comforts with traditional elements.

In this Agrotourism project, A-lab prioritizes spatial quality and climate performance by addressing prevailing winds, typically blowing from the Northwest to the Southeast. The layout serves as a protective barrier, shielding both indoor and outdoor areas from strong winds, and ensuring guest comfort. Strategically positioned openings near bedroom ceilings, facing the Northwest, promote natural cross ventilation, further enhancing eco-efficient solutions.

Additionally, the new east-facing suites benefit from direct sunlight at sunrise, providing guests with a warm start to their day while reducing the need for additional heating. Breeze blocks play a crucial role in optimizing solar energy use year-round. They regulate excessive heat during high sun angles and allow sunlight to penetrate during lower angles, aiding in heating. This meticulous integration of climate considerations guarantees guest comfort in every season.

Project Mission

Casa Vale da Lama is strategically designed to operate seamlessly year-round, catering to a diverse clientele seeking various experiences. Whether guests are seeking silent retreats, wellness tourism, team-building stays, event hosting, family leisure, or upscale experiences, Casa Vale da Lama is poised to meet their needs with collective bedrooms, family accommodations, and premium suites.

The three interconnected volumes are meticulously planned to optimize the distribution of facilities, ensuring it meets the diverse needs of guests and visitors alike, including considerations for privacy, noise levels, and social interaction.

The layout of the resort is realized to effectively diversify the range of tourist experiences offered. From a spa to dedicated yoga and multipurpose rooms, complemented by an indoor swimming pool and other facilities, which includes a farm-to-fork restaurant, these offerings ensure the eco-resort remains attractive to guests even during off-peak seasons.

Furthermore social responsibility extends beyond tourism within the project. In addition to its tourism focus, Casa Vale da Lama welcomes all visitors and ensures year-round employment for its staff through a range of extended activities and offerings. The project also organizes day events for local families, sells vegetables at both the restaurant and local markets and promotes workshops fostering partnerships with other educational organizations. These initiatives highlight the strategic importance of tourism when structured as a source for regenerative investments.