Cascais has long attracted those who seek tranquility and the light of the Atlantic. This Portuguese coastal town is not far from Lisbon. It boasts a lively historic center, as well as fine-sand beaches and a marina. It is in this setting that a homeowner designed and built this small studio house with his own hands. The project took six years to come to fruition on an irregularly shaped lot. And despite its compact size, it’s something of a dream vacation home for a couple.

It blends contemporary architecture with raw, natural materials. Woven jute, marble, and rattan create a warm and cohesive palette. A swimming pool heated year-round to 32°, which guests share with their host, awaits swimmers. Remarkably, the owner carried out this project entirely on his own, from design through to interior decoration.

Understated exterior architecture


The small studio house nestles at the far end of the garden. Its white walls and tiled roof echo the region’s traditional architecture. Two black-framed glass doors open directly onto the terrace. A massive banana tree spreads its broad leaves right in front of the entrance. A stone staircase winds its way up to the main house, its pool, and the shared garden.

An open floor plan thought out down to the smallest detail


It features an open floor plan, where the bedroom is separated by a simple one-meter-high wooden partition. The bed occupies the back of the space, out of sight. In the living area, a generous corner sofa is placed next to the kitchen. Natural colors, enhanced by touches of orange, dominate the space. Two solid-wood stools, carved from a single piece, complete the seating area. The custom-made furniture, designed and crafted specifically for this space, fits perfectly into every nook and cranny. The kitchen is located near the floor-to-ceiling window that opens onto the terrace. This is where meals are enjoyed. It is adorned with wicker-style cabinet fronts.

Jute and rattan adorn every wall


The walls and the walk-in closet are covered in natural jute wallpaper. This woven material lends a warm beige hue to the entire room. The curtains, made of thick cotton, feature a black-and-white graphic pattern.

A huge black-and-white photograph adorns the back wall. This portrait adds a strong personal touch to the room. Natural wicker closet doors enclose a discreet and functional walk-in closet. The white resin floor, accented with a thin gray border, ties the entire space together.

A marble bathroom


The white bathroom is centered around a steam shower stall, undoubtedly a luxurious detail. Marble covers the walls, floor, and sink. Gold-plated fixtures complete this elegant room. A small round porthole lets in natural light. This bathroom functions as a true miniature spa without having to go outside, what a treat!

The terrace and pool in the tropical garden


A small table adorns the private terrace of this small studio home. It offers a bird’s-eye view of a lush, verdant garden. Palm trees, banana trees, and flower beds form a tropical setting for the building. A stone staircase connects this terrace to the pool deck. The pool, shared with the main house, is heated year-round to 32 degrees. Striped lounge chairs and wicker baskets adorn the wooden terrace that surrounds it.

Our take on the decor


This small studio home is remarkable not only for its design but also for its decor. The blend of jute, rattan, and marble makes it a very elegant space. The warmth of the natural materials makes you feel right at home immediately. Its orange bedspread adds a vibrant touch to the room. The marble bathroom is particularly refined. And although it uses high-end materials, it remains a relaxed space where everyday life feels effortless.

The custom-made furniture is a real asset in a small space. Every piece finds its perfect place. The owner, who designed his own home, has pulled off this project with flair.

A style to inspire us


This decor reminds us of the chic beach cottages along the coast. Jute, linen, and rattan evoke Cap Ferret or the Hamptons. This style would also work in a larger house, a seaside apartment, or even in the city, where a touch of warmth is welcome. The combination of marble and natural fibers is sure to inspire our own interiors.

Cascais, between beaches and the historic center


This small studio house is located on the outskirts of downtown Cascais, within walking distance. The town’s lively atmosphere, as well as the beaches, are all accessible on foot right from the doorstep. Cascais has preserved its historic center, with cobblestone streets and colorful facades. A 15th-century citadel overlooks the Tagus River.

living room and kitchen small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


living room and kitchen small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest




living room and bedroom small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


living room and bedroom small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


living room and bedroom small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


bedroom small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


bedroom small studio house contemporary decorShare on Pinterest


marble bathroomShare on Pinterest


marble bathroomShare on Pinterest


living room with terraceShare on Pinterest


terraceShare on Pinterest


terrace with plunge poolShare on Pinterest


small studio house PortugalShare on Pinterest


This small studio house is available for rent through Airbnb