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Cenourão Penthouse
Cenourão Penthouse
São Paulo, Brazil
Project Featured on Feb 20, 2026
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Cenourão Penthouse
São Paulo, Brazil
Project Featured on Feb 20, 2026
Firm
Type
STATUS
Built
YEAR
2024
SIZE
0 sqft - 1000 sqft
BUDGET
$50K - 100K
In the second semester of 2021, architect Orlando Denardi and his husband, Arthur, discovered a nearly unique opportunity: the acquisition of a penthouse apartment in an emblematic building in the Pinheiros neighborhood of São Paulo, popularly known as the “Cenourão” (Big carrot in English). Designed by Modern architect Ary de Queiroz Barros and completed in the early 1980s, the building recognized as one of the city's first developments dedicated exclusively to duplex apartments.
For the couple, who had spent nearly a decade in an apartment designed by the architect-resident, the search for a new property was guided by several essential principles. They sought a space that abundantly lit and allowed for the creation of a private oasis closely connected to natural elements, such as light, breeze, and greenery.
The privileged location and architecture were evident from the first visit. The 125-square-meter property (65 square meters on the first floor and 60 on the upper level) revealed a need for reconfiguration due to its segmented layout, irregular design, and lack of privacy from neighboring buildings. For the architect, this condition offered a unique opportunity to explore the potential for remodeling the space. Following technical approvals, the renovation commenced in 2023 and completed in early 2024, where the couple now lives with their cat, Theo.
The old service area and half-bath were opened up by removing the diagonal walls, creating a new living room. These areas were then relocated to the opposite side, closer to the kitchen.
Outside, the potential to transform the old wooden deck into a space connected to the interior led to extensive studies and revisions until the final solution. The original concrete pool, elevated by four steps, was removed, creating a seamless connection between the new terrace and the living areas.
The open patio promotes both physical and visual permeability between the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The original half-height masonry closures were removed, creating unobstructed openings that received new aluminum and glass frames installed on tracks embedded directly in the floor. This design maximizes the natural light that flows into the interior.
To protect the frames on rainy days, the architect designed a new semi-curved eave that aligns with the building’s characteristics and flowing lines, creating a harmonious dialogue with the overall design. The structure consists of metal profiles covered with cementitious panels.
Visual unity achieved through three materials that flow throughout the architecture. The flooring features irregular slabs of marble with an antiquated finish, while the walls adorned with light-toned wood panels and adobe bricks. The continuous use of these materials, combined with the seamless leveling of the floor from the interior to the exterior – made possible by a linear drain system installed directly over the embedded tracks – enhances integration and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere in the apartment.
In the entrance hall, the wood panels extend to the ceiling, and the doors blend into the structure. The space enhanced by carefully curated objects, including the Presa wall sconce in polished aluminum by Estúdio Orth and a rustic wooden totem featuring a vase created by Brazilian ceramic artist Isadora Mourão.
Upon crossing the main door, visitors are welcomed by an abundance of natural light and a inviting atmosphere. Ahead, they catch a glimpse of the kitchen, the new balcony, and the living room, all harmoniously integrated.
To the left, the living room seems to expand when the sliding glass frames are fully opened. Inside, the curved ceiling accentuates the height and distributes indirect lighting. This design element pays homage to the original curves of the staircase walls and the exterior, as well as to the new eave.
The vertical arrangement of the bricks complements the vertical grain of the wooden panels, reinforcing the interplay between the materials. The bricks introduce rich texture and subtle color variations within a harmonious palette.
The color palette of the living room inspired by a tapestry that transitions from greenish tones to earthy hues, and the arrangement of furniture reflects these nuances. At the heart of the space is the C113 V2 sofa (designed by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono), upholstered in a matching green fabric. This is paired with a set of Tobogã armchairs (by Vírgula Ovo, part of the family collection) upholstered in caramel leather. Additional pieces include Sonia benches (original design by Brazilian Modern designer Sergio Rodrigues, reissued by Dpot), a C404 coffee table in Jequitibá wood (also by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono), and a Wire Frame shelf (by Vírgula Ovo) showcasing a selection of the residents' literary collection and treasured objects. A painting inherited from the family, created by Brazilian artist Antônio Soriano, adds a personal memory to the wall.
On the opposite side, an armchair and a side table named Nós – a limited edition pieces by designers Luciana Martins and Gerson de Oliveira in collaboration with visual artist Célio Braga, produced by Vírgula Ovo – acquired in 2015.
A relic of memories takes shape on the side table, featuring a trio of sculptural objects in cast metal with polished aluminum and brass finishes – Príncipe, Figa, and Cálice – by Estúdio Orth. Accompanying these is the wall-mounted sculpture Elo Energia from the P.roduto studio for Dpot Objeto.
The layout of the living area is thoughtfully designed to enhance the connection with the balcony. The furniture arrangement optimizes integration, allowing the spaces to merge when the doors are open, facilitating conversations during family and friends gatherings. Natural light floods both levels, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Outside, the old pool has been replaced with a bathtub, offering ease of maintenance and expanding the usable space for the residents to enjoy sunny days. The stone flooring extends to the boundary walls.
Due to technical limitations that precluded the installation of garden beds, the landscaping was designed with large ceramic pots. A striking palm tree, approximately 5 meters tall, serves as a focal point visible from the main living areas and is the first feature noticed upon entering the apartment. The vegetation is essential for providing shade on sunny days, ensuring privacy, and adding a refreshing element that complements the palette of natural tones.
The decor features contemporary Brazilian design pieces, including a pair of 22 armchairs (2019) created by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha in collaboration with architects Marta Moreira and Milton Braga from the MMBB firm, originally designed for the Sesc 24 de Maio, a cultural building in São Paulo. Also included is the Caçua armchair by Sérgio J. Matos.
The half-bath showcases walls clad in bricks and a stone floor. On the surfaces are the Rino Rosto mirror, Argola hanger, and Sino wall sconce, all designed by Estúdio Orth. The suspended countertop crafted from Travertino Silver marble, adding elegance to the space.
In the kitchen, a key challenge was restoring the building's original features. The concrete slab and staircase underwent about two months of restoration to remove the previous paint, allowing the space to reflect its original character.
The black-finished cabinetry serves as a “silent” element, allowing the appliances to recede from view. The silver portico of the countertop adds a sense of lightness, while the linear window frames the greenery of the urban landscape. Both the countertop and kitchen island are crafted from Emerald Green quartzite, a Brazilian stone that features soft green tones and gray veining.
In the panel separating the kitchen from the laundry room, there's an opening at the bottom that allows the family pet to pass through.
On the opposite side, the generous window that receives direct light during the morning and afternoon is equipped with a metal blind that filters light and obscures the view of the neighboring tower. The round dining table, finished in caramel leather—designed by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono Design—is surrounded by a set of Chroma chairs, designed by Felipe Protti for Prototype. Below the staircase, a neon lamp stands out, acquired a few years ago at the studio of artist Kleber Matheus.
The family room and suite are situated on the upper floor. The private living room, designed as a dual-purpose space for both TV viewing and work, features two Vice-Versa chaise lounges (by Vírgula Ovo) brought from their previous home, fitting seamlessly into the layout. A side table displays objects collected from their travels. Above the staircase, a suspended sculpture from the family collection and a painting by artist Marcos Varanda in the wall.
The suite is situated above the former attic of the tower, featuring a lower ceiling than the previous room. This necessitated creative solutions and subtle interventions regarding the positioning of the original structure. The beams near the frames were concealed with a drywall ceiling, which incorporates an indirect lighting system for greater visual comfort.
To evoke memories of their previous home, one significant color was chosen: Klein Blue. This hue recalls the cabinetry from their previous residence and is incorporated into the portico surrounding the bedroom in the new home. In response to this color and the need for a lower bed model to accommodate the reduced ceiling height, the architect selected the Tiras bed. This model features linear upholstered panels in gray and blue tones and was designed by Luciana Martins and Gerson de Oliveira for Brazilian design brand Vírgula Ovo, receiving an award at the Museu da Casa Brasileira Design Prize in 2010.
Also in the composition are a photograph by Marcelo Elídio – acquired in 2016 at an art fair in São Paulo – a Bump floor lamp (Nada se Leva, commercialized by La Lampe), a Carretel table with a concrete base (Vírgula Ovo), and a Mammamia chair (Opinion Ciatti, by Firma Casa) for quick professional calls. On the entrance wall, there are modules of Campo poufs (Vírgula Ovo) and Modern mirrors (Giacomo Tomazzi).
Location: São Paulo, Brazil
Total Area: 125 m²
Area per Floor: 65 m² (1st floor), 60 m² (2nd floor)
Project Year: 2023
Completion Year: 2024
Architecture: Orlando Denardi
Interior Design: Orlando Denardi
Landscaping: Musgo Paisagismo
Lighting Design: Orlando Denardi
Photography: André Mortatti
Text/Communication: Matheus Pereira
Main Suppliers: Frames (Zeloarte); Awnings (Uniflex - Stobag); Flooring Stone (Colormix); Brick Cladding (Colormix); Countertop Stones (Montego Mármores); Fixtures and Fittings (Deca); Woodwork (Bontempo); Technical Lighting (LabLuz).
Furniture and Decor Accessories: Carbono Design, Vírgula Ovo, Prototype, Jader Almeida, Dpot, Estúdio Orth, Dpot Objeto, Pair, Botteh.
For the couple, who had spent nearly a decade in an apartment designed by the architect-resident, the search for a new property was guided by several essential principles. They sought a space that abundantly lit and allowed for the creation of a private oasis closely connected to natural elements, such as light, breeze, and greenery.
The privileged location and architecture were evident from the first visit. The 125-square-meter property (65 square meters on the first floor and 60 on the upper level) revealed a need for reconfiguration due to its segmented layout, irregular design, and lack of privacy from neighboring buildings. For the architect, this condition offered a unique opportunity to explore the potential for remodeling the space. Following technical approvals, the renovation commenced in 2023 and completed in early 2024, where the couple now lives with their cat, Theo.
The old service area and half-bath were opened up by removing the diagonal walls, creating a new living room. These areas were then relocated to the opposite side, closer to the kitchen.
Outside, the potential to transform the old wooden deck into a space connected to the interior led to extensive studies and revisions until the final solution. The original concrete pool, elevated by four steps, was removed, creating a seamless connection between the new terrace and the living areas.
The open patio promotes both physical and visual permeability between the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The original half-height masonry closures were removed, creating unobstructed openings that received new aluminum and glass frames installed on tracks embedded directly in the floor. This design maximizes the natural light that flows into the interior.
To protect the frames on rainy days, the architect designed a new semi-curved eave that aligns with the building’s characteristics and flowing lines, creating a harmonious dialogue with the overall design. The structure consists of metal profiles covered with cementitious panels.
Visual unity achieved through three materials that flow throughout the architecture. The flooring features irregular slabs of marble with an antiquated finish, while the walls adorned with light-toned wood panels and adobe bricks. The continuous use of these materials, combined with the seamless leveling of the floor from the interior to the exterior – made possible by a linear drain system installed directly over the embedded tracks – enhances integration and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere in the apartment.
In the entrance hall, the wood panels extend to the ceiling, and the doors blend into the structure. The space enhanced by carefully curated objects, including the Presa wall sconce in polished aluminum by Estúdio Orth and a rustic wooden totem featuring a vase created by Brazilian ceramic artist Isadora Mourão.
Upon crossing the main door, visitors are welcomed by an abundance of natural light and a inviting atmosphere. Ahead, they catch a glimpse of the kitchen, the new balcony, and the living room, all harmoniously integrated.
To the left, the living room seems to expand when the sliding glass frames are fully opened. Inside, the curved ceiling accentuates the height and distributes indirect lighting. This design element pays homage to the original curves of the staircase walls and the exterior, as well as to the new eave.
The vertical arrangement of the bricks complements the vertical grain of the wooden panels, reinforcing the interplay between the materials. The bricks introduce rich texture and subtle color variations within a harmonious palette.
The color palette of the living room inspired by a tapestry that transitions from greenish tones to earthy hues, and the arrangement of furniture reflects these nuances. At the heart of the space is the C113 V2 sofa (designed by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono), upholstered in a matching green fabric. This is paired with a set of Tobogã armchairs (by Vírgula Ovo, part of the family collection) upholstered in caramel leather. Additional pieces include Sonia benches (original design by Brazilian Modern designer Sergio Rodrigues, reissued by Dpot), a C404 coffee table in Jequitibá wood (also by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono), and a Wire Frame shelf (by Vírgula Ovo) showcasing a selection of the residents' literary collection and treasured objects. A painting inherited from the family, created by Brazilian artist Antônio Soriano, adds a personal memory to the wall.
On the opposite side, an armchair and a side table named Nós – a limited edition pieces by designers Luciana Martins and Gerson de Oliveira in collaboration with visual artist Célio Braga, produced by Vírgula Ovo – acquired in 2015.
A relic of memories takes shape on the side table, featuring a trio of sculptural objects in cast metal with polished aluminum and brass finishes – Príncipe, Figa, and Cálice – by Estúdio Orth. Accompanying these is the wall-mounted sculpture Elo Energia from the P.roduto studio for Dpot Objeto.
The layout of the living area is thoughtfully designed to enhance the connection with the balcony. The furniture arrangement optimizes integration, allowing the spaces to merge when the doors are open, facilitating conversations during family and friends gatherings. Natural light floods both levels, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Outside, the old pool has been replaced with a bathtub, offering ease of maintenance and expanding the usable space for the residents to enjoy sunny days. The stone flooring extends to the boundary walls.
Due to technical limitations that precluded the installation of garden beds, the landscaping was designed with large ceramic pots. A striking palm tree, approximately 5 meters tall, serves as a focal point visible from the main living areas and is the first feature noticed upon entering the apartment. The vegetation is essential for providing shade on sunny days, ensuring privacy, and adding a refreshing element that complements the palette of natural tones.
The decor features contemporary Brazilian design pieces, including a pair of 22 armchairs (2019) created by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha in collaboration with architects Marta Moreira and Milton Braga from the MMBB firm, originally designed for the Sesc 24 de Maio, a cultural building in São Paulo. Also included is the Caçua armchair by Sérgio J. Matos.
The half-bath showcases walls clad in bricks and a stone floor. On the surfaces are the Rino Rosto mirror, Argola hanger, and Sino wall sconce, all designed by Estúdio Orth. The suspended countertop crafted from Travertino Silver marble, adding elegance to the space.
In the kitchen, a key challenge was restoring the building's original features. The concrete slab and staircase underwent about two months of restoration to remove the previous paint, allowing the space to reflect its original character.
The black-finished cabinetry serves as a “silent” element, allowing the appliances to recede from view. The silver portico of the countertop adds a sense of lightness, while the linear window frames the greenery of the urban landscape. Both the countertop and kitchen island are crafted from Emerald Green quartzite, a Brazilian stone that features soft green tones and gray veining.
In the panel separating the kitchen from the laundry room, there's an opening at the bottom that allows the family pet to pass through.
On the opposite side, the generous window that receives direct light during the morning and afternoon is equipped with a metal blind that filters light and obscures the view of the neighboring tower. The round dining table, finished in caramel leather—designed by Marcus Ferreira for Carbono Design—is surrounded by a set of Chroma chairs, designed by Felipe Protti for Prototype. Below the staircase, a neon lamp stands out, acquired a few years ago at the studio of artist Kleber Matheus.
The family room and suite are situated on the upper floor. The private living room, designed as a dual-purpose space for both TV viewing and work, features two Vice-Versa chaise lounges (by Vírgula Ovo) brought from their previous home, fitting seamlessly into the layout. A side table displays objects collected from their travels. Above the staircase, a suspended sculpture from the family collection and a painting by artist Marcos Varanda in the wall.
The suite is situated above the former attic of the tower, featuring a lower ceiling than the previous room. This necessitated creative solutions and subtle interventions regarding the positioning of the original structure. The beams near the frames were concealed with a drywall ceiling, which incorporates an indirect lighting system for greater visual comfort.
To evoke memories of their previous home, one significant color was chosen: Klein Blue. This hue recalls the cabinetry from their previous residence and is incorporated into the portico surrounding the bedroom in the new home. In response to this color and the need for a lower bed model to accommodate the reduced ceiling height, the architect selected the Tiras bed. This model features linear upholstered panels in gray and blue tones and was designed by Luciana Martins and Gerson de Oliveira for Brazilian design brand Vírgula Ovo, receiving an award at the Museu da Casa Brasileira Design Prize in 2010.
Also in the composition are a photograph by Marcelo Elídio – acquired in 2016 at an art fair in São Paulo – a Bump floor lamp (Nada se Leva, commercialized by La Lampe), a Carretel table with a concrete base (Vírgula Ovo), and a Mammamia chair (Opinion Ciatti, by Firma Casa) for quick professional calls. On the entrance wall, there are modules of Campo poufs (Vírgula Ovo) and Modern mirrors (Giacomo Tomazzi).
Location: São Paulo, Brazil
Total Area: 125 m²
Area per Floor: 65 m² (1st floor), 60 m² (2nd floor)
Project Year: 2023
Completion Year: 2024
Architecture: Orlando Denardi
Interior Design: Orlando Denardi
Landscaping: Musgo Paisagismo
Lighting Design: Orlando Denardi
Photography: André Mortatti
Text/Communication: Matheus Pereira
Main Suppliers: Frames (Zeloarte); Awnings (Uniflex - Stobag); Flooring Stone (Colormix); Brick Cladding (Colormix); Countertop Stones (Montego Mármores); Fixtures and Fittings (Deca); Woodwork (Bontempo); Technical Lighting (LabLuz).
Furniture and Decor Accessories: Carbono Design, Vírgula Ovo, Prototype, Jader Almeida, Dpot, Estúdio Orth, Dpot Objeto, Pair, Botteh.
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