Inspiration from the Sun’s Refuge: A Fusion of Culture and Nature
"Sun’s Refuge" is not just a country house, but a sanctuary designed to protect its inhabitants from the scorching sun of Brazil’s interior. Located in Sítio Solzinho, in the rural area of Barbalha (CE), in the stunning Chapada do Araripe, this 62.50 m² residence was conceived to host a couple on weekends. The project began in August 2020 and was completed in September 2021, blending traditional and modern construction techniques to achieve a perfect synergy between human comfort and the surrounding natural elements.

Sustainable Architecture in Brazil's Interior
The main challenge of the Sun’s Refuge was to preserve the panoramic view of Chapada do Araripe to the west while protecting the interior of the house from the intense solar radiation typical of the Cariri region. To achieve this, an impressive rammed-earth wall was built, 0.40 m thick, 8.0 m long, and 4.8 m high, oriented from north to south. This wall not only protects the interior space but also takes advantage of its high thermal inertia to maintain a cool and comfortable environment.

Innovation and Tradition in Construction
The entire project developed from this central wall. On the west side, a hydraulic block made of reinforced mortar was erected, housing the guest bathroom and service area on the ground floor, the en-suite bathroom and balcony on the first floor, and a water tank at the top. On the east side, a light and simple structure with wooden pillars and beams was created, integrating perfectly with the rammed-earth wall. The east-facing walls were constructed with rammed earth, movable and fixed glass, and recycled windows from antique stores.

Sustainability in Every Detail
The Sun’s Refuge incorporates sustainable practices throughout its design. A banana cycle system and an evapotranspiration basin were adopted for wastewater treatment, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The house's artisanal construction not only provided a unique experience but turned each stage into an enriching experimental process, full of learning and knowledge exchange.

A Unique Architectural Experience
The Sun’s Refuge, designed by AzulPitanga in Barbalha, Brazil, is an example of how sustainable architecture and conscious design can create a dream space in harmony with its natural surroundings. Every detail, from the choice of materials to the construction techniques, reflects a commitment to sustainability and the well-being of its inhabitants.

Sun’s Refuge / AzulPitanga
Barbalha, Brazil
Architects: AzulPitanga
Area: 62 m²
Photographs: Igor Ribeiro