The house unfolds on two levels: The renovated farmhouse and adjoining stables on the upper-level house the living room and dining room respectively, while the newly-built bedrooms occupy a cluster of interconnected cubic volumes on the lower level. The architects took advantage of the sloped terrain to ensure unobstructed views from both communal and private spaces, and added plenty of outdoor spaces, including a pool terrace that overlooks the rural landscape, a dining courtyard set around the old bread oven, along with private courtyards, complete with hammocks, for each one of the four bedrooms.

Underpinned by a minimalist aesthetic of clean lines and uncluttered spaces, the house’s interiors reflect the architecture’s poetic dialogue of vernacular and modern elements. The traditional timber roof structure is painted white to blend in with the white-washed walls, concrete floors and arched doorways that echo the farmhouse’s past are complemented by large new windows that offer generous views and abundant natural light, while modern furniture pieces are mixed with handcrafted ceramics and locally made textiles imbuing the house with a muted palette of earthy hues.

Casa Um’s Algarve version of luxury hospitality isn’t limited to the architecture and design of Atelier Rua. Informed by theAddresses founders Bert Jeuris and Ludovic Beun’s years of shared passion and numerous trips to the Algarve, guests are privy to a curated guide with tips and suggestions of places to visit and things to do, from the most idyllic beaches, best eateries and markets, and most interesting ceramics shops, to cultural visits, cycling tours, and boat trips. With a well-stocked wine cupboard boasting the best wines in Portugal and a treasure trove of local products, Casa Um offers a holistic holiday experience that’s as memorable as it is delectable.