Spiraling Courtyard Ramps

Architect Antonio Lima Costa designed a house in the small Portuguese town of Estoril, not far from Lisbon, that was inspired by the story of the family who occupies it. Featuring an open central courtyard surrounded by the windowless walls of neighboring residences, the house has a spiraling ramp that leads from the ground floor to a rooftop garden.

Antonio Lima Costa came up with the idea for an unbroken rooftop ramp after hearing the story of the family who commissioned the home. The family had been incredibly mobile, living in many places around the world, but had decided to finally settle down in Estoril. As such, the rising ramp that gives way to views of the quaint town is a metaphor for the family's journey around the globe and arrival in Portugal.