Frederico Zanelato Arquitetos Unveils Vila Marebo, a Tropical Sanctuary in Southern Bahia

Nestled in the lush, sun-drenched landscapes of southern Bahia, Brazil, a new architectural retreat has emerged that redefines the concept of coastal living. Designed by Frederico Zanelato Arquitetos, Vila Marebo stands as a testament to thoughtful, context-driven design. Curated by Susanna Moreira, the project was born from an invitation by a long-time partner and collaborator, setting the stage for a residential concept that transcends conventional architecture to establish a fully immersive village experience within a single private lot.

At the heart of Vila Marebo’s design brief was a clear and ambitious premise: to craft two independent architectural blocks that would operate harmoniously while maintaining their individual spatial identities. Rather than uniting these structures through standard corridors or enclosed hallways, the architects chose to connect them via an elevated footbridge and a generous, light-filtering pergola. This strategic layout does much more than simply link two buildings; it organizes the topography of the site in a way that actively embraces the surrounding landscape and encourages organic movement throughout the property.

Rather than functioning as a closed-off, traditional residence, Vila Marebo is intentionally laid out like a micro-village. The fluid zoning of the property is engineered to foster social interaction, casual encounters, and deep relaxation. By breaking the living spaces into distinct pavilions, the design naturally generates interstitial areas—patios, decks, pathways, and garden vistas—that blur the boundaries between the interior and the exterior. These transitional zones transform everyday circulation into environments of pure warmth and sensory experience, allowing residents and guests to constantly engage with the tropical climate, dappled sunlight, and soft sea breezes characteristic of southern Bahia.

The material palette of Vila Marebo plays a crucial role in establishing its distinct atmosphere. Rooted in traditional Brazilian building techniques yet refined with contemporary precision, the architecture makes extensive use of warm, natural timber. Exposed wooden beams, finely crafted columns, custom doors, and expansive slatted pergolas create a rich interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. This prominent use of wood not only grounds the structures in their natural environment but also introduces a tactile, organic warmth that softens the clean lines of the contemporary layout.

Inside the living pavilions, the spatial experience is characterized by a seamless continuity of materials and an emphasis on openness. Large openings and fluid room transitions invite the landscape directly into the domestic sphere. The living areas, dining spaces, and private quarters are designed to feel both expansive and intimate, offering sheltered sanctuaries alongside breezy, open-air gathering spots. The integration of the wooden footbridge and the central pergola serves as a unifying architectural spine, guiding movement from one block to the other while framing picturesque views of the surrounding greenery and local flora captured through the lens of Oka Fotografia.

The collaboration between Frederico Zanelato Arquitetos and their long-time partner culminated in a project that respects both the scale of the human body and the grandeur of the Bahian landscape. By prioritizing community, sensory engagement, and architectural fluidity, Vila Marebo moves away from rigid residential typologies and embraces a more holistic way of inhabiting space. The resulting village-like atmosphere ensures that every corner of the property offers a unique experience, turning daily rituals into moments of connection with nature and architecture alike.