Near the coast outside Braga, Portugal, an apartment was redesigned to accommodate a family of three and their dog, Gorila.
Pinhal da Foz I underwent a transformation by interior designer Ângela Castro, who eliminated walls and narrow corridors to create an open, adaptable layout. The redesign focused on flexibility, integrating storage and furniture while preserving the original warm tones of cream and oak.
The apartment now adjusts effortlessly between daily routines, hosting guests, and family moments. Movable islands, modular seating, and concealed compartments allow the space to reconfigure as needed. “This house is constantly in motion,” Castro explained. “I can rearrange the pieces to refresh the energy in the room.”
The design rejected rigid conventions, instead aligning with the family’s habits. Walls were removed to connect the living area to the largest window and balcony, while storage solutions were built into every available space.
One notable feature: the kitchen island rolls on castors, serving as a breakfast bar, room divider, or party setup. Beneath it, a vinyl player slides out from a hidden drawer when in use. Above, a double-sided shelf floats between the kitchen and living room, providing storage without obstructing light.
Castro tailored the space to the family’s needs. The dining bench, a birthday gift, extends beyond the table to seat guests and store records. The modular sofa can be rearranged for gatherings or quiet nights.
The entrance was also reimagined. A full-height oak storage unit includes a bench for shoes, a drop zone for keys, and a two-sided mirror that reflects light to create a sense of openness. The unit connects the living and sleeping areas, maintaining a continuous flow.
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The kitchen pantry includes what Castro calls a “dry fridge”—shelves mounted on the door to hold spices, oils, and small items. Internal shelves were slightly narrowed to accommodate the door storage without reducing capacity.
Storage lines the kitchen from floor to ceiling. Open and concealed shelving keeps frequently used items accessible, while the island’s recessed outlets power appliances without clutter.
These details contribute to the apartment’s flexibility. Every centimeter was considered, ensuring nothing was wasted. The result is a compact home that feels spacious.
The layout plays with perception. A continuous line of joinery from the entrance to the private zones elongates the sense of space. Mirrors reflect light, and the open-plan design keeps sightlines unbroken.
The dining bench extends beyond the table, offering extra seating and storage beneath. The sofa’s modular sections can be rearranged or pushed against the island, depending on the occasion. Even the vinyl player, stored in a drawer, appears only when needed.
These choices were made for practical living. A home must function for weekday breakfasts, weekend gatherings, or quiet evenings with a dog on the floor. The apartment doesn’t just fit the family; it moves with them.
In a space this size, that adaptability is significant.
