Casa D'Abreu Neto

Álvaro Siza’s First Built Masterpiece in Matosinhos

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Álvaro Siza in 1957 as his very first built commission, Casa d’Abreu Neto is a living piece of Portuguese architectural history. Located in Matosinhos, this seminal home—one of the famous "Four Houses"—was meticulously restored by Siza himself in 2023, preserving its mid-century soul while updating it for modern living. The interiors feature custom furniture, Valadares ceramics, and a distinct "mother-in-law’s tongue" chimney that nods to Gaudí. Just minutes from the coast, the villa offers four bedrooms, a private garden, and a rare chance to inhabit the space where a master’s career began.

Commissioned by the d’Abreu Neto family, the home merges modernist rigor with regional warmth. From the sculptural staircase to the ochre glass tiles, every detail tells a story of artistic struggle and triumph. It is a "house with soul," recently curated by Siza with original pieces, art, and textiles celebrating Portuguese craftsmanship.

The living areas are defined by fluidity and light, centered around a dramatic hearth and a dining hatch. Siza-designed ironmongery, lighting, and furniture populate the rooms, creating a cohesive aesthetic experience. The kitchen serves as a sensory hub with its iconic chimney, while the "gallery" mezzanine connects the private quarters, offering stained-glass glimpses of the neighboring "Four Houses."

A perimeter garden embraces the house, offering a green buffer from the street. The original "service" entrance remains, leading past the garage—now a laundry and support space—to the kitchen. The distinctive 10-meter veranda invites morning coffee with views of the avenue, while the rear garden, once a play area for the family children, provides a quiet reading nook beneath mature trees and the watchful eye of the "Nossa Senhora da Guia" boat helm.

What we love

We love that this home feels like a living piece of Portuguese architectural history, straight from the mind of Pritzker Prize-winner Álvaro Siza. There is such a genuine mid-century soul here, kept alive by the original custom furniture and those classic Valadares ceramics that make the space feel truly authentic.

Layout

This vacation home for rent in Matosinhos sleeps up to seven guests. The ground floor hosts the living and dining areas, kitchen, and an office-turned-library. Upstairs, four bedrooms await: the primary d’Abreu Neto room with balcony access, the nostalgic Marias’ and Boys’ rooms, and the tranquil Guest room overlooking the garden. The home is served by two full bathrooms featuring restored vintage fixtures.

Experiences

Guests can arrange guided architectural tours led by experts or intimate storytelling sessions with family members. The space also hosts curated cultural events.

Good to know

The house is located in an urban setting in Matosinhos, so some street noise is possible. Access involves stairs, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility. A car is not strictly necessary as the metro and beach are nearby, but street parking is available.

Amenities & services

Fully equipped kitchen, garden, balcony, heating, laundry facilities, workspace, bed linens, towels, toiletries, wi-fi

Around

Matosinhos is the seafood capital of the north, famous for its grilling smoke and Atlantic breeze. You are perfectly positioned to explore the "Four Houses" cluster and the wider works of Siza, including the Leça Swimming Pools and the Boa Nova Tea House, both a short drive away. The expansive Matosinhos beach is nearby for surfing or walking, while the tragic-romantic Senhor de Matosinhos church adds historical weight to the view. A quick metro ride connects you to the heart of Porto, making this an ideal base for design lovers wanting authentic local flavor without the downtown crowds.