Interviews with Caroline Andrusko

Receiving this recognition was a great honor for our entire team. Seeing a project developed with such care receive an international award of this caliber reinforces the idea that thoughtful architecture can transcend borders and connect with different cultures and contexts.I believe the Arc Residence embodies these principles through its commitment to balancing aesthetics, functionality, and quality of life. From the beginning, there was a strong focus on understanding the family’s lifestyle and needs, transforming those insights into architectural solutions that would be authentic, meaningful, and lasting.Natural light also played a fundamental role in the project. The layout was carefully designed to maximize daylight throughout the house, taking advantage of solar orientation, the positioning of openings, and the integration between spaces. The architectural volumes were shaped to create different spatial experiences throughout the day, generating a dynamic relationship between light and shadow while strengthening the connection between the interior and exterior environments.This award also reinforced a belief that has always been central to our design philosophy: architecture must go beyond aesthetics. It should respond to its context, to the people who inhabit it, and to the way they live. When cultural sensitivity, environmental performance, and spatial quality come together, the result becomes more meaningful and enduring.

We believe that the natural characteristics of a site, even when they initially appear to be challenges, can become valuable design opportunities. In the case of the Arc Residence, the steep topography became one of the project’s greatest assets, helping to create an architecture that is more authentic and deeply connected to its surroundings.Rather than trying to eliminate or conceal the site’s natural slopes, we chose to embrace them as an organizing element of the design. This approach allowed us to create a series of platforms and architectural volumes that follow the terrain naturally, establishing a harmonious relationship between the building, the landscape, and the environment.The topography also contributed significantly to both the functional and visual organization of the house. The different levels helped define areas such as the entrance sequence, garage, and social spaces, while making the arrival experience more dramatic and memorable. At the same time, these changes in elevation created a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, naturally guiding movement and views toward the gardens and pool area.While a completely flat house may offer certain practical advantages, working with different levels creates a richness of spatial experience that is difficult to achieve otherwise. The platforms allow distinct environments to emerge without relying on rigid physical separations, using variations in elevation to define functions, perspectives, and experiences. This creates a strong sense of continuity while preserving the unique character of each space.This approach reflects a principle that consistently guides our work: architecture should respond to the natural conditions of a site rather than resist them. When design works with the landscape instead of against it, the result is more coherent, more efficient, and ultimately more connected to its environment.

As Brazilian architects, we believe that architecture must go beyond aesthetics. It should be functional, respond to people’s needs, and at the same time reflect the culture, context, and moment in which it is created. In this sense, we believe the Arc Residence House contributes to the discussion on cultural authenticity and regional identity by demonstrating that it is possible to create contemporary architecture with a strong local character without relying on literal references or nostalgic interpretations of the past.The project’s language follows a contemporary and timeless approach, defined by clean volumes, straight lines, integrated spaces, and a strong emphasis on materiality. We sought to combine natural materials with others that, even when industrially produced, evoke natural textures and qualities, creating an atmosphere that feels both authentic and welcoming. This is a characteristic that is deeply present in contemporary Brazilian architecture and in the work of many professionals we admire.Receiving recognition through the A’ Design Award reinforced our belief that this approach has relevance not only within Brazil but also on an international stage. We see the award as a validation of Brazilian architecture’s ability to engage with global design conversations while maintaining its own identity.Rather than offering lessons to other architects, we hope projects like this encourage a broader reflection on the richness that already exists within our own country. Brazil has extraordinary cultural diversity, outstanding materials, a strong creative industry, and an architectural tradition that is respected worldwide. Looking to these references and reinterpreting them through a contemporary lens is, in our view, an important path toward creating architecture with authenticity, personality, and meaning.For this reason, the Arc Residence does not seek to replicate the past. Instead, it aims to create a timeless architecture that remains relevant over time without depending on trends or nostalgic references.

All of the environmental constraints associated with the site were carefully analyzed and respected throughout the entire design process. While complying with regulations was naturally essential, this approach was also aligned with the values of our practice, which prioritizes environmental responsibility and a strong connection between architecture and its natural context.The project had to respond to several important conditions, including the preservation of native trees, the regulated removal of selected specimens with the required environmental compensation through replanting, and most notably, the presence of a protected spring located near the front portion of the property. These factors played a significant role in shaping the design and defining how the residence could be positioned and developed within the site.The protected spring, for example, limited the possibility of introducing certain architectural and landscape elements in the front area of the property. Rather than viewing this solely as a restriction, we used it as an opportunity to rethink the arrival experience. As the design evolved, the main entrance staircase became a more prominent architectural feature, creating a stronger sense of arrival and a more expressive relationship between the architecture and the landscape.The environmental conditions of the site also influenced the organization of levels throughout the property and the preservation of natural landforms, including the slope located in the lower portion of the lot. In many ways, these constraints guided solutions that may never have emerged under less restrictive circumstances.We believe that some of the most meaningful architectural outcomes result from this dialogue between design and context. When limitations are approached as opportunities rather than obstacles, they often lead to projects that are more authentic, more integrated with the landscape, and more responsive to their environment.

The selection of materials was a highly intentional process and played a fundamental role in shaping the identity of the Arc Residence. From the beginning, our goal was to create a combination of materials capable of enhancing the architectural volumes, generating meaningful contrasts, and conveying a sense of permanence and timelessness.The use of ribbed exposed concrete, movable and fixed muxarabis, and Michelangelo Nuvolato marble was carefully considered so that each material would contribute to the overall architectural composition. Together, these elements help define the different volumes of the residence while creating depth, texture, and visual contrast throughout the façade.The choice of Michelangelo Nuvolato marble was particularly significant. In addition to being a Brazilian material recognized internationally, it is quarried in the state of Paraná, strengthening the project’s connection to its regional context. It is also a highly durable dolomitic marble, a characteristic that contributes to the long-term performance of the residence and helps preserve its visual quality over time.The material selection process was carried out collaboratively with the clients and involved extensive research into finishes, performance, and durability. We sought materials that would not only support the aesthetic vision of the project but also offer longevity, resilience, and reduced maintenance requirements.As a result, the material palette was developed through a balance of local identity, technical performance, and architectural expression. More than a visual decision, these materials helped reinforce the contemporary and timeless architectural language that guided the project from its inception.

The relationship with the family and the briefing process were fundamental to the development of the Arc Residence from the very beginning. We believe that large-scale residential projects require a deep understanding of how people live, entertain, and envision using their spaces over time. For this reason, maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the clients was essential throughout the entire process.Over the course of the four and a half years required to complete the project, there was continuous alignment between the family’s expectations and the design decisions. Rather than major changes in direction, what occurred was a gradual refinement of ideas that had already been established during the conceptual phase. The solutions were continuously developed, tested, and validated while remaining faithful to the lifestyle and aspirations of the homeowners.From the outset, the integration of the social spaces was one of the project’s primary goals. The intention was to create open and connected environments that would encourage interaction among family members and guests while establishing a seamless relationship between the interior living areas and the outdoor pool environment. This concept remained central throughout the design process and was continually refined over time.At the same time, decisions regarding the building layout, site planning, and spatial organization were strongly influenced by the natural characteristics of the property and the environmental constraints previously discussed. The topography, preservation areas, and construction limitations were considered from the earliest stages and helped shape solutions that remained consistent throughout the project’s evolution.As a result, the extended development period was not defined by dramatic changes in direction, but rather by the opportunity to deepen and strengthen the original design intentions. The final outcome is a residence that remained true to its initial vision while becoming increasingly aligned with the family’s needs and the unique qualities of the site.

Receiving this international recognition is extremely rewarding. I would like to clarify that, although the question refers to Arc Residence as a self-directed project, the residence was actually designed for a very special family of clients whose trust allowed us to develop a highly personalized architectural solution. While the project reflects our design philosophy and architectural values, it was ultimately conceived to respond to the clients’ aspirations, lifestyle, and long-term vision for their home.One of the aspects that brings me the greatest satisfaction is seeing how naturally the house functions in everyday life. The spaces support family interaction, social gatherings, and moments of privacy with equal ease. The strong connection between architecture, landscape, and well-being was carefully developed to create an environment that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.The integration with the gardens, for example, goes far beyond aesthetics. Nature becomes part of the daily experience of the residence, contributing to comfort, quality of life, and a deeper relationship between the inhabitants and their surroundings. Seeing the family fully embrace and enjoy these spaces is one of the project's greatest achievements.Receiving an international award for this work is particularly meaningful because it validates principles that have guided my practice throughout the years: functionality, comfort, environmental integration, timelessness, and a deep understanding of the people who will inhabit the space. It is gratifying to see these values recognized on a global stage.I also believe this project communicates an important message to the profession. The most successful architectural commissions emerge from a genuine dialogue between architect and client. When there is mutual trust and a shared commitment to quality, architecture can move beyond aesthetics and become a meaningful framework for everyday life.In this sense, the Arc Residence demonstrates that great architecture should not be defined solely by its visual impact. It should be comfortable, enduring, and enriching for those who live in it. Beyond following trends, the real challenge is creating spaces that remain relevant, functional, and inspiring for their residents for many years to come.

Maintaining a welcoming and warm atmosphere in a large-scale residence such as the Arc Residence was primarily achieved through a carefully structured layout designed from the outset to encourage everyday living and social interaction.The integration of the social areas was a key aspect of the project. Rather than over-segmenting the spaces, we aimed to create a fluid organization that promotes continuity between living, dining, leisure, and circulation areas. This approach makes the house feel more alive in daily use, supporting both family life and social gatherings without creating the impersonal feeling often associated with large residences.Another important aspect was the treatment of openings and natural light. Instead of compromising privacy, the strategy was to carefully balance daylight entry with landscape integration, using the garden as both a visual buffer and a transitional element. In this way, the relationship between interior and exterior becomes softer and more balanced, enhancing comfort throughout the home.The organization of the different levels also contributed to this experience. The social floor was designed as an open and continuous space, while the private upper level was planned with larger yet still intimate and well-proportioned rooms, ensuring both comfort and privacy.Ultimately, the key factor in avoiding any sense of institutional or impersonal character was the way the layout was conceived: always based on how the house would truly be lived in on a daily basis, rather than purely as a formal composition. This approach allowed the creation of a large-scale residence that still maintains a human scale, comfort, and ease of inhabitation.

Sustainability in the Arc Residence was addressed through a combination of technical strategies and architectural solutions integrated into the overall design of the residence. Some of these strategies are highly visible and contribute directly to the aesthetic language of the project, while others operate more subtly in the building’s environmental performance.Among the most visible elements is the use of mashrabiyas on the façade. They play an important role both in shaping the building’s volumetric composition and in controlling solar exposure, creating varying levels of shade and contributing to thermal comfort. At the same time, they reinforce the architectural identity of the residence and enhance the relationship between interior and exterior spaces.From a technical standpoint, the house includes photovoltaic panels for energy generation, as well as a rainwater harvesting system with a cistern, both of which contribute to the building’s efficiency and reduced environmental impact.In addition, the site planning and spatial organization were also guided by climatic performance considerations. The spaces were positioned to optimize solar exposure in a balanced way, avoiding both excessive heat gain during peak summer conditions and insufficient daylight in other periods of the year.In this way, sustainability in the project is not treated as an isolated system, but rather embedded within the architectural decisions themselves, combining environmental comfort, technical efficiency, and aesthetic expression into a single integrated approach.