Janet Butler
A private residence in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Cobertura Triplex by Izabela Lessa Arquitetura boasts a panoramic view of beach, coastline, and Dois Irmãos, (“Two Brothers”), local mountain landmarks. As the designer says, “The customers (a young couple with children) wanted a modern apartment, but it needed to have a comfortable atmosphere and allow for broad use of spaces.” One of the key spaces in this triplex apartment is the terrace, with its gourmet kitchen area and entertainment center. Also on the terrace is a relaxed outdoor seating area with plush white-cushioned furniture; directly beside the infinity pool are sun loungers from which you can see the beach below. This pool area was dramatically improved with travertine marble around its edge and Balinese stone in its interior.
A new open interior plan relocated the staircase — now encased in a glass “railing” that makes the most of natural light. Light bathes the children’s rooms and plays up the bright colors: pink-orange in one, aqua blue in another. A third kid’s space, a playroom, sports multicolored rectangular ceiling lights and a table with bright blue chairs. Entertaining is easy with two living/lounging areas and a modern dining table that easily seats 8. Wood floors tie the areas together in a cohesive and welcoming combination. As the designer concludes, “The goal of the project was to provide the best views, while at the same time protecting the privacy of the family, creating harmony with the surrounding landscape.” Clearly, this triplex design succeeds on all counts.
