Green-Roofed Casa Cabeço Rises From the Hills Like a Giant Pumpkin Patch in Portugal

Often we write about homes that blend in with the natural environment, but that isn't what we'll say about the bright orange Casa Cabeço in Madeira, Portugal. But <a href="http://www.msb-arquitectos.net">MSB Arquitectos</a> <em>did</em> integrate the complex design into an impossibly steep plot that required virtually no excavation of the existing vegetation. Topped with a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/amazing-green-roof-art-school-in-singapore/">luscious green roof</a> and tucked into the landscape, this striking residence receives its light from both the north and the south.

This bright orange home is located in Madeira, Portugal

It doesn't harmonize with the landscape so well given its bright color

Bold measures were taken to integrate the home into a very steep, awkward plot

There are three separate volumes joined by vertical elements

Very little of the existing site was destroyed in the process of building the home

We love the bright bold orange color - so perfect for Madeira

This is where the house was built!

The north-facing lot didn't provide enough sunlight, so MSB Arquitectos opened the southern side as well

Light wells visible from the ground pull natural light into the underground level

Site plan

First floor plan

Second floor plan

Elevation