Vitor Vilhena Architects “House of Messines”

If the phrase “serinity now” could be encompassed in a home, it surely is the “House of Messines”, located in São Bartolomeu de Messines, Portugal. Just look at the thing. Created by Vitor Vilhena Architects, the residence has been beautifully executed on the ruins of an old home with just the right dimensions to make the new project work, but it wasn’t easy since governmental restrictions required the new construction to pretty much mimic the footprint of the original domicile. The result is nothing short of breathaking with a rectangular, single floor work of art that almost looks like a flatter version of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Hawaii. The interior is spartanly modern with a hovering fireplace and a minimalist kitchen. Upstairs, you’ll find a deck and a swimming pool that extends on one elevated end of the home. The huge windows bathe the interior with light and also illuminate the exterior at night. It’s a sight to behold, and the fortunate owner can relax in one of the most peaceful personal castles on earth.