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Atelier Backlar's innovative Blue House project in the Azores represents a harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern sustainable design. By integrating recycled ocean plastic, locally sourced timber, and salvaged basalt stone, the studio has transformed a former whaler's tavern into an environmentally conscious and architecturally distinctive residence. This endeavor not only revives a historical structure but also champions circular economy principles and celebrates regional craftsmanship, creating a dwelling that resonates with both its past and its present.

Innovative Sustainable Construction and Material Use

Atelier Backlar has masterfully repurposed a historic whaler's tavern on São Miguel Island, transforming it into 'The Blue House' through an approach that emphasizes sustainability and adaptive reuse. This architectural achievement integrates recycled ocean plastic for exterior cladding and locally sourced timber for its structural insulated panels (SIPs), demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. The design preserves the original basalt stone walls while introducing modern, eco-friendly materials that enhance the building's resilience to the local climate and seismic activity. This project serves as a compelling example of how architects can honor historical contexts while pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction practices.

The construction of The Blue House highlights an innovative approach to material selection and structural design. Utilizing prefabricated structural insulated panels (SIPs) crafted from timber primarily sourced within the Azores, Atelier Backlar prioritized materials with low embodied carbon. This choice not only allowed for rapid assembly, with the timber structure erected in just ten days, but also ensured superior performance against the challenging Azorean weather and seismic conditions. The exterior features a distinctive blue cladding made from recycled ocean plastic, a decision that faced considerable logistical hurdles due to the typical scale of recycled plastic production. This material choice not only provides robust protection against the harsh coastal environment but also symbolically connects the house to its oceanic surroundings, blending seamlessly with the sky and sea while contrasting with the rugged basalt. The facade’s deep blue hue offers a subtle narrative, reflecting the studio’s dedication to transforming waste into a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and protective building element, thereby enriching the project's environmental and cultural significance.

Integrating History, Craftsmanship, and Nature in Design

The interior of The Blue House thoughtfully reflects a balance between historical elements, local craftsmanship, and the surrounding natural beauty. The design strategically positions windows and openings to maximize natural light and capture stunning views of the bay, reminiscent of historical whaler lookout shelters, while ensuring privacy. The limited material and color palette create a serene and uncluttered living space, complemented by custom-made furniture crafted by local artisans. A notable feature is an antique harpoon, repurposed from an instrument of whaling to a symbol of marine conservation, illustrating a profound shift in cultural values. This sensitive approach to design ensures that the house not only provides comfort but also tells a story of transformation and respect for its unique heritage.

Inside The Blue House, the design ethos continues to champion a minimalist aesthetic and a deep connection to its environment and history. A carefully curated palette of materials and colors defines a tranquil interior. The layout ingeniously addresses site constraints, orienting windows and openings to flood the spaces with natural light and frame picturesque views of the bay, a nod to the area's maritime past. Many furnishings, including dining tables, coffee tables, benches, and kitchen cabinetry, were custom-designed by Atelier Backlar and produced by local craftspeople, embodying a commitment to regional artistry and a warm, inviting atmosphere. A significant symbolic detail is an antique harpoon, displayed not as a tool of its original purpose, but as an art piece that signifies the island's evolution from whaling to conservation. The concrete slab floor, finished with microcement, extends into a built-in sofa, creating a fluid connection between architectural elements. The lightweight steel and timber staircase further enhances the flow of natural light, and the upstairs bedrooms continue the subdued palette, featuring splashes of blue and unique elements like willow lampshades woven using 17th-century Jesuit craft traditions and acacia door handles inspired by traditional Azorean locking systems. These details collectively weave a rich tapestry of history, local skill, and environmental consciousness into the fabric of the home.