Can Monumental Architecture Feel Weightless? | Casa Celeiro

Casa Celeiro: A Contemporary Timber House Shaped by Structure and Landscape | MF+Arquitetos

Set against the dramatic landscape of Serra da Canastra, in Delfinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil, Casa Celeiro is a 1,108 m² contemporary residence designed by MF+Arquitetos, led by architects Filipi and Mariana Oliveira. Overlooking the waters of a vast reservoir, the house unfolds through a composition of sculptural volumes, expressive timber structures and carefully framed views. Conceived as a weekend retreat for gathering family and friends, its architecture explores the delicate balance between monumentality and lightness, shelter and openness, creating an intimate dialogue between built form, natural materials and the surrounding landscape.

Developed over three years, the project draws inspiration from the traditional barn, reinterpreting its recognizable form through contemporary architecture. Two distinct volumes arranged at right angles establish the composition, creating a dialogue between built form, natural topography and the waterfront setting.

The architecture is organized around a clear distinction between social and private spaces. The main barn-inspired volume accommodates the bedrooms and living areas within a series of enclosed spaces surrounded by circulation zones that encourage natural ventilation and visual permeability. A second volume engages more directly with the sloping terrain, appearing partially embedded in the landscape while maintaining multiple connections to the garden and the rest of the residence.
Glue-laminated timber plays a central role in the architectural expression. Its prefabricated structural elements define the rhythm of the building, creating generous spans, expressive cantilevers and carefully framed views. Beyond its structural function, the timber envelope incorporates wooden brise-soleil that filter afternoon sunlight, provide privacy and allow natural ventilation even during rainy weather.

The material palette reinforces the relationship between architecture and nature. Timber, stone and dark metal surfaces establish a restrained composition of contrasting textures and tones. Large stone slabs extend continuously through circulation areas, social spaces and bedrooms, creating visual unity, while warmer wooden surfaces and soft furnishings introduce a sense of intimacy.

Throughout the residence, structural precision and environmental performance are closely connected. Deep overhangs, filtered daylight, open circulation and carefully positioned volumes respond to the site's climatic conditions, while the interplay between solid and transparent elements creates a continuous dialogue with the landscape.

Rather than relying on formal complexity, Casa Celeiro finds its architectural identity in the careful articulation of structure, materiality and proportion, transforming the familiar image of a rural barn into a contemporary residential experience.

In this film, we take a poetic and cinematic journey through Casa Celeiro, exploring its expressive timber structure, sculptural volumes, natural materials and relationship with the surrounding landscape. Moving through its sheltered walkways, intimate interiors and open living spaces, the film reveals how MF+Arquitetos brings together structural innovation, environmental sensitivity and the timeless qualities of Brazilian contemporary architecture.

Presented by: Pedras Mundial + Roberto Almeida Marcenaria