This Soothing, Spa-Like Residence in Brazil Is the Deep Breath We All Need

"We just wanted to create something that promotes feelings of calm and peace in everyone who enters," say the founders of Brazil studio Traama Arquitetura. Called Ori Refuge, the 700-square-foot home embodies Japandi style, a serene blend of Scandinavian and Japanese influences.

The building, located in Brazil’s capital, Brasília, once sheltered the city’s electric power company. The renovation honors the structure’s heritage by utilizing materials like sand, clay, and minerals, which combine for an all-natural color palette. Elongated clay bricks applied to the walls resemble shiplap, but create a refined, textured look. The team took advantage of the structure’s existing metal ceiling, painting it a lighter color.