Uma Chácara

It is common, my teacher tells me, for many people who live in Brazilian cities to also own a small farm known as a chácara in the countryside for their leisure. The word comes from the Spanish word chacra (which in turn comes from a Native American word) and probably best translates into English as a “shack” or ranch. At a chácara, people might grow fruits, vegetables, maybe coffee, and keep some animals.

It’s a nice thought and I’ve wondered what I would want for a chácara if I could build one. Pictured here is my interpretation. A modest two-bedroom and one-and-a-half bath home with a long space in the back for a kitchen, dining, and living areas. I have drawn a porch on the front but depending on climate, location, or whether this was built in stone, brick, stucco, or wood, the exterior should be altered accordingly. Rather than a patio, I think a wisteria covered pergola could be extremely attractive.

Axes and perspectives were important to me when designing this layout. Upon entering, one walks into a large sitting room and is then immediately drawn to the dining table which centers the common spaces at a T-intersection of formal and informal areas. While it is open with good flow and air circulation, I’d hesitate to call it an open floor plan. I would like to think there is an elegance about the simplicity of this plan that feels cozy, intimate, and welcoming.

If you like this blog post, you might enjoy this previous update!