The conversion of existing buildings demonstrates the capacity of urban centers to evolve over time, accommodating new demands through new configurations. ARCHITECTS OFFICE (AO-SP) put this proposition into practice by transforming a corporate building into a residential space, contributing to the revitalization of one of São Paulo’s most valued areas, Itaim Bibi. The neighborhood is home to DOX, located on Rua Joaquim Floriano, which is the result of a retrofit of a commercial building from the 1980s.

“We investigated what needed to be preserved or altered, analyzing the existing structure to extract its maximum potential,” says Sávio Jobim. Thus, the new residential use was conceived with the idea of creating stacked houses by dividing the existing slabs. The apartments feature two suites, with the possibility of expanding to three, along with new terraces. An additional 50 m² was added to each floor, equivalent to 5% of the land area, with prefabricated metal balconies that are lightweight and positioned distinctly on each slab. These variations brought a surprising aesthetic composition, providing residents with distinct experiences. The rhythm created by the geometry of the asymmetric balconies, alternating between leaning to the right and left, and the greenery introduced by the external planters gave the façades a unique identity.

The perimeter structure allowed the floors to remain open, accommodating integrated floor plans. “The units reflect the concept of a home in the sense of horizontality, spaciousness, connection with the natural environment, and uniqueness,” says Jobim. This concept is associated with natural materials that warm and enhance the quality of the apartments, with notable use of light-colored stones and wood. Wood is predominantly found in the terrace ceilings and window frames, visible from the street level, as well as in the structure and railings, referencing the Japanese wafu technique, which uses wooden joints without nails.

The vertical circulation between floors was maintained, as well as pedestrian circulation on the ground floor, highlighted by the active façade that also attracts visitors to the commercial spaces. The building entrance, via the central lobby, was redesigned for vehicular access, shifted to the right for better use of the basement, and complemented with a garden at the rear.

On the ground floor, residents have access to coworking spaces and a gourmet area. This area integrates with a bar, which extends to the barbecue area with an island featuring a cooktop and sliding doors with window frames that open fully, merging the indoor and outdoor social spaces. Leisure options also include a sauna, pool, and a gym located on the mezzanine.

The ARCHITECTS OFFICE team also handled the interior design of both the common areas and different apartment typologies, working primarily with neutral tones like gray and white and their interplay with wood. On the roof, a light slatted pergola was proposed, along with pieces of Brazilian furniture and custom-designed furniture, such as the master suite's double bed. Interior walls feature textures, and the bathrooms are clad in marble, intensifying the connection with the natural and mineral elements.