In the lush hills of Nova Lima, Brazil, a couple and their two adult children found the perfect canvas for their dream home, a sweeping plot with nearly 360° views. With the help of architect David Guerra, they envisioned a modern retreat that could host lively gatherings while offering moments of peace and privacy.
The result is a hilltop hideaway that feels open yet grounded, luxurious yet warm, perfectly designed for family life and endless entertaining.
A House That Grows From the Land
Set on a gentle slope, the home appears to emerge naturally from the hillside. Wide stone steps are embedded into the grass, creating a sculptural entryway that feels organic and inviting. From the moment you step inside, nature greets you, large windows frame an internal garden that brings the outdoors right into the heart of the home.
A central hallway flows toward the main living areas, where every view captures light, greenery, and glimpses of the horizon.
Light, Space, and Connection
The main living area is one expansive, open room, yet it feels effortlessly divided into cozy zones. A small sofa anchors the TV area, followed by a generous living space centered around a striking suspended fireplace. Beyond it, a long dining table seats ten, ready for family feasts and late-night laughter.
Behind the dining area, a sliding wooden wall conceals the kitchen, which continues the home’s warm, modern palette. Patterned tiles bring personality, while a sleek black countertop contrasts beautifully with the rich wood cabinetry. When the wall slides open, the entire space transforms into one continuous social hub.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Every room on the ground floor opens to the exterior, creating a constant dialogue between the house and the landscape. Beyond the living area, a covered veranda extends the social space, furnished with comfortable seating and a large alfresco dining table.
Just around the corner, a swimming pool stretches out beside a sun-drenched deck, while a glass-enclosed hot tub offers year-round relaxation. Whether hosting friends or unwinding after a long day, the family can enjoy every angle of the surrounding view.
Entertainment at Every Turn
By the pool, another leisure area continues the home’s social spirit. Designed with a bar, pool table, and lounge, this space is as inviting as any luxury resort. It connects directly to the kitchen and main living spaces, making it ideal for large gatherings that flow easily from indoors to out.
The layout reflects the owners’ original vision: a home where everyone can move freely through the spaces, sharing laughter or retreating to quiet corners whenever they wish.
Nature at the Heart
At the center of the home, the internal garden acts as a living sculpture. Floor-to-ceiling glass lets sunlight spill through, illuminating the surrounding rooms and drawing nature into the architecture. The garden can be seen from almost every vantage point, from the living room to the staircase that floats above it.
A home office opens directly onto this inner oasis, creating a peaceful workspace surrounded by greenery and light. It’s easy to imagine moments of inspiration found between meetings and birdsong.
A View From Above
The staircase leading to the upper floor rises gently over the internal garden, surrounded by sunlight and lush greenery. As you ascend, large windows frame the landscape beyond, turning the simple act of climbing the stairs into a moment of connection with the outdoors.
At the top, the bedrooms open toward the horizon, each one designed to capture the beauty of the surrounding hills, while one of the bathrooms reveals an unexpected delight, a private garden that fills the space with natural light and a touch of tropical serenity.
Designed for Life, Grounded in Nature
Natural materials like stone, wood, brick, and exposed concrete give the home a timeless presence. Inside, the decor is layered with character, from designer furniture and Tibetan rugs to Brazilian artworks and travel mementos. Every detail tells a story of family, craftsmanship, and connection to place.
In the end, this hilltop home is a modern architectural statement. It’s a living, breathing space that celebrates togetherness, light, and the simple joy of being surrounded by nature.