The Banana House

The Banana House on the colourful island of Madeira is an atmospheric retreat. Lushly surrounded by banana, mango and fig trees and with a view of the spectacular mountains dipping into the wild Atlantic. A holiday home at play with nature and warm light.

The minimalist building is situated on a terrace on the slope of the small village of Arco da Calheta, one of the oldest settlements on the island. In the middle of a banana grove and at a short distance from the coast. The dark brown, fertile soil of the island testifies to its volcanic origin. The Banana House matches the colour of its surroundings, which make the lush green of the plant-rich island shine even brighter. To preserve the original character of the rugged topography, the house was conceived on two levels, connected by a long staircase. While the kitchen, dining and living areas invite people to come together on the upper floor, the bedrooms and retreat rooms are found in the basement. Both bedrooms, one with a double bed, the other with two single beds, have access to the garden with its mango and fig trees.

Both the lower floor and the walls of the terraces are made of large basalt stones originating from the region. In contrast, the upper floor finds a more sculptural language, inspired by the dark earth tones and texture of the terrain. The bright interior features a charming mix of sleek modern design, classics and vintage furniture. A bright yellow desk brings sunshine to your workation, but it may also be used for other purposes. A large saltwater pool with yoga terrace and a barbecue area for deeply relaxing days and evenings await you on the doorstep. When the sun sinks into the Atlantic and the gentle wind rustles in the sea of banana leaves, the days here end magically.

What to do

Numerous hiking routes, e.g. on the Fajã do Mar to the Paúl da Serra plateau and to the Laurisilva forest with its ancient laurel trees, which is located in an old volcanic crater, swimming in the salt water pool and in the sea, diving, water sports, mountain biking, paragliding, golfing, diverse excursions and discoveries around the island, shopping at the market and, of course, harvesting mangos and figs directly from the tree.

Why we like this house

Simple luxury in a fascinating, exotic natural setting.

This house is great for

Couples, friends and individualists

Sustainability

Energy supply with solar energy, heat pump, special irrigation system, salt water pool


Details

Region PT – Portugal, Madeira Island, Arco da Calheta
Name The Banana House
Scenery In the midst of exotic vegetation, with a magnificent view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Number of guests Max. 4
Completed 2020
Design Tabaibo Atelier, Madeira (PT)
Published Architecture and Wonder (11/2021); archdaily (10/2021);
Architecture Modern
Accomodation House
Criteria 1-4 (house/apartment), Garden, Hiking, Island, Mountains, Pool, Sea, Workation
bananahouse.pt

Availability calendar

The calendar shows the current availability of the accommodation. On days with white background the accommodation is still available. On days with dark gray background the accommodation is not available.

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