Fidalga Apartment

Conceived for a young family passionate about gastronomy and the art of hosting, the Fidalga Apartment — located in the heart of Vila Madalena neighborhood, São Paulo — reflects a contemporary, dynamic, and affectionate way of living.

As their family grew, so did the need for a home that could accompany this new chapter. During walks through the neighborhood they already called home — and with which they share a strong connection, especially to its cultural, gastronomic, and artistic life — they discovered, in the duplex penthouse of a low-rise building, the opportunity to lay new roots.

The unobstructed view, abundant natural light, and the double-height ceiling on the upper floor — made possible by the gabled roof — were key in their decision. The sensation of being in a house sealed the deal.

To lead the renovation, they invited the Brazilian architecture firm Gurgel D’Alfonso Arquitetura — led by architects Rogério Gurgel and Caio D’Alfonso. The duo completely restructured the apartment’s layout, proposing new spatial connections and solutions.

The new design articulates a range of materials — steel, stone, and wood. These choices engage in a dialogue without hierarchy, creating expressive yet balanced contrasts.

The selection also fulfills a long-held desire of the residents: to explore unconventional finishes and textures in a home setting, introducing materials typically associated with industrial or commercial spaces — such as stainless steel and brass — in direct contrast with natural surfaces, without losing a sense of warmth.

The main countertop was built in self-supporting stainless steel, composed of independent modules with different functions and accessories, assembled like a flexible system.

The mix of warm and cold surfaces meets different culinary demands, drawing inspiration from the functional logic of professional kitchens. The project thus balances sensory and technical aspects with equal precision.

At the back, a custom cabinetry volume finished in golden brass panels houses appliances and storage that are subtly concealed within the design. The reflective surface captures and disperses light throughout the space.

The cabinetry follows a minimalist design, with metal groove handles and flat surfaces that reinforce the visual organization of the kitchen and its continuity with the living room.

To ensure visual cohesion across the different environments, as well as a balance among varied materials, the flooring throughout the social area is made of terracotta ceramic tiles, whose tone brings warmth and a tactile comfort to the space.

The lighting design employs exposed ceiling-mounted spotlights that highlight the slab without the need for false ceilings, and linear pendants above the countertop.

The artificial lighting, used mainly at night, efficiently complements the generous natural light that fills the space through large windows and concrete breeze blocks, significantly reducing the need for electric lighting during the day.

The bookshelf’s curved outline follows the air conditioning duct — an example of how visible infrastructure was embraced as part of the design.

The windows are framed in the same wood species, with slatted screens that subtly filter light, creating shadow patterns that shift throughout the day.

The furniture balances emotional heirlooms with signature design pieces. The family’s original dining table was preserved and is now paired with restored Sergio Rodrigues chairs acquired from Galeria Teo.

On the shelf, the Maija lamp by Spanish brand Santa & Cole, supplied by FAS Iluminação, provides a touch of soft light.

The sense of continuity extends onto the balcony, where the same floor material reinforces the seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

A wooden bench runs along the edge of the railing, while planters add greenery and flexibility to the space.

The office features a light blue epoxy floor, directly referencing the sky visible through the windows. Natural materials and simple forms create a calm and comforting atmosphere.

In the office, a custom Sucupira wood desk was designed specifically for the home. The layout includes the “(Sem)Capa” chair by Wentz Design.

A complementary workstation blends contrasting materials, combining carpentry and metalwork.

Produced in modules and installed before the civil work was completed, this element streamlined both timing and finish — a clear example of the strategy to combine construction efficiency with architectural identity.

The base of the unit, lowered and carpeted in a neutral tone, serves as both a technical floor and a step between spaces, while discreet niches conceal electrical systems and house equipment.

Stainless steel-finished Formica modules serve as bedside tables and support for personal items, maintaining aesthetic continuity with the lower level.

The ceiling retains the original roof slope, highlighted by natural light. The space is conceived as a sensory retreat, where textures and precisely aligned surfaces create a quiet, immersive, and contemplative experience.

This home represents an intervention rooted in daily life — attentive to family routines, emotional ties, and technical demands, yet open to material experimentation and research.

A home where living is both an intimate and collective act — between cooking, connecting, and sharing memories that take shape in the space.