Project by David Bastos studio explores spatial fluidity, rustic-contemporary materiality and connection with nature in São Paulo traduzido por: OPENROUTER
Submitted at Aug 24, 2026, 12:19 PM
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
The office of architect David Bastos is among the finalists of one of the most important architecture awards in the world, the World Architecture Festival (WAF) 2026. The project of a country house in the interior of São Paulo is competing in the Completed Buildings - House and Villa (Urban) category, dedicated to urban residences that have already been built. The award results will be announced between November 18 and 20 in Fort Lauderdale, in the United States.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
"Being among the finalists of the World Architecture Festival is an immense honor. The WAF is one of the most demanding and prestigious showcases of contemporary global architecture. Having our project selected is proof that our design, rooted in our culture, in our territory and in our way of living, dialogues with what is most relevant in the world," states David Bastos in an interview with CASACOR.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
The architect has been part of the CASACOR lineup on several occasions, the most recent being at CASACOR Bahia 2025. In addition to him, the Brazilian office Jacobsen Studio is competing in the same category, with the Copper Villa project, built in Dubai.
The house selected by the WAF 2026 jury is Monte Mor, a work with 3,177 sqm of land and 922 sqm of built area. "It was born with the purpose of being a true country retreat, prioritizing freedom, family togetherness and a deep connection with nature," Bastos explains.
Set on a sloping plot in the interior of São Paulo, the residence is organized into two main volumes that dialogue with the topography: the upper block, which concentrates the social and intimate spaces under a double-height ceiling, and the lower block, dedicated to leisure.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
Among the main highlights of the project are the spatial fluidity and the rustic-contemporary materiality. The use of a mixed structure of concrete and metal beams clad in wood, combined with large glass spans, wooden frames, basalt shard floors and ceilings lined with natural straw, creates an imperceptible transition between the interior and exterior.
In addition, the architect invested in strong environmental comfort strategies — such as wide eaves, cross ventilation and abundant natural lighting —, combined with sustainable technologies such as photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
One of the few national representatives at WAF 2026, David Bastos defends the importance of valuing typically Brazilian architectural characteristics in his work. One of them is the unique spatial generosity – which he believes is born from our relationship with the climate, with sunlight and with the exuberance of nature.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
"At Casa Monte Mor, we translated this essence by refusing hermeticism: we created a house that breathes, that invites you to 'put your feet on the ground' and that dissolves the barriers between man and the tropical landscape," he explains.
Casa Monte Mor, de David Bastos (Fran Parente/Divulgação)
The use of national materials and organic textures— such as wood, Brazilian stones, and straw — also deserves attention, especially combined with the hospitality of the large living spaces. "They show the world that luxury, for us, is not in ostentation, but in the comfort, the warmth, and the well-being provided by integration with the surroundings".
The World Architecture Festival annually brings together architects, firms, developers and specialists from various countries to discuss industry trends and award the best projects of the year. In 2026, the event will take place in Fort Lauderdale, in the United States, starting on November 18. There will be three days of lectures, networking, debates focused on innovation and live judging of the finalists.
traduzido por: OPENROUTER
