Courtyards are a key feature of the region’s vernacular architecture going back to the Romans and Arabs, as they reduce sun exposure, promote passive cooling and improve the property’s microclimate, while in the countryside they also serve as a transition zone between the interior and nature itself. It was therefore important to Sofia and Miguel that they were incorporated into the design of the houses, whilst introducing a contemporary feel and look in reflection of their modern vision of hospitality.

In response, Mateus applied a minimalist architectural language of clean lines and simple geometric forms, designing four identical house-shaped concrete enclosures, each one containing a different arrangement of indoor and outdoor spaces. The properties are orientated towards a different direction to ensure uninterrupted views with a triangular-shaped infinity pool functioning as a pivot. Punctuated by large openings, in effect, the angular volumes comprise a series of sculptural installations that echo the hilly landscape which Mateus describes as “[architectural] ruins lost in time”.

Ranging from one to three-bedroom houses, all four properties share the same intimate relationship between nature and man-made environments through thoughtfully framed views, handcrafted natural materials, and large glass patio doors that can completely disappear to erase the line between the inside and outside.

Underpinned by a muted palette of earthy hues, a mix of cast concrete, unpainted plaster and natural oak surfaces, and sparse Scandinavian and Italian furniture, the pared-down interiors carry on the buildings’ minimalist architecture. “With no hidden tricks”, Sofia and Miguel explain, “Pa.te.os reflects the authenticity of materials without disregarding comfort and function”. The soulful simplicity of the interiors also reflects the owners’ joy for the beauty of simple things, as do the artworks that they have chosen: a series of compact kinetic sculptures in the bedrooms and four large paintings, one for each living room, which Portuguese artist Olga Sanina made using foliage she collected from the property.

Complementing Pa.te.os’ immaculately designed, peaceful setting, indoor wood-burners and outdoor showers further underline the interchangeable character of the interior and exterior areas, while amenities such as freshly prepared breakfast, a curated list of local wines, and on-demand massage treatments and yoga sessions build upon the concept of slow living. Finally, while a custom-made fragrance by British perfumer Lyn Harris rounds up Pa.te.os’ all-sensory experience by capturing Alentejo’s sea breeze and pine tree aromas.