From Ruin to Dream Home: The Architectural Journey of Project Mariposa

After securing the keys to my forgotten farmhouse in rural Portugal, the real work began. The moment I stepped onto the land, I knew this place had a soul, a story waiting to be told. But before it could become home, it needed love, patience, and vision.

This is the story of how I turned an abandoned ruin into my dream retreat, one rooted in nature, sustainability, and biophilic design.

I didn’t want to change the house. I wanted to bring out its natural beauty, respecting its imperfections rather than erasing them.

Seeing Potential in the Ruin

The farmhouse stood untouched for years, weathered by the coastal winds and overgrown with wild vegetation. The structure was simple: thick stone walls, a crumbling tiled roof, and an old barn in the back. But what captivated me was the setting, rolling green valleys, the scent of fig trees, and the sound of waves in the distance.

I didn’t want to change the house. I wanted to bring out its natural beauty, respecting its imperfections rather than erasing them.

Finding the Right Architects & Crafting the Vision

For a project this personal, I needed a team that understood not only architecture but also the feeling of home. That’s when I discovered YUMA CONCEPT, a small but forward-thinking architectural studio already making a name in the area. We instantly connected over a shared passion for natural materials, light-filled spaces, and minimalist yet warm interiors.

Key Design Decisions:

Preserving the Original Character

The thick stone walls stayed, along with the rustic wooden beams. Any new materials had to blend seamlessly with the old.

Embracing Indoor-Outdoor Living

Large openings were introduced to invite in natural light and extend the living space into the garden.

Using Sustainable & Local Materials

Reclaimed wood, clay walls, and natural stone ensured the house felt like an extension of the land.

Restoring the Barn

What was once a crumbling storage space became a cozy guest studio for visiting friends and family.

Every step was a conversation between past and future, between honoring the old and embracing the new.

Challenges Along the Way

Renovating an old home in Portugal is a beautiful but unpredictable journey. Here are a few challenges I faced along the way:

Bureaucratic Maze

From obtaining permits to navigating local building regulations, the paperwork required patience and persistence.

Structural Surprises

What seemed like minor repairs turned into major reinforcements, particularly with the roof.

Sourcing Skilled Artisans

Finding craftsmen who respected traditional techniques was crucial but not always easy.

Living Through the Process

Renovation is messy. There were moments of doubt, setbacks, and unexpected costs, but also immense joy in seeing my vision take shape.

Biophilic & Sustainable Design Principles

At the heart of Project Mariposa was a commitment to designing in harmony with nature. Some of the key elements included:

Maximizing Natural Light 

Skylights and large windows reduced the need for artificial lighting.

Passive Cooling & Heating

Thick walls provided insulation, and cross-ventilation eliminated the need for air conditioning.

Rainwater Collection & Reuse

A system was installed to harvest rainwater for irrigation.

Native & Edible Landscaping

The land was restored with local plants, a vegetable garden, and fruit trees.

Handcrafted Elements

From a dining table made of reclaimed wood to a chandelier crafted from a wind-shaped branch, the home was filled with organic, meaningful details.

The Result: A Home That Breathes

The renovation took longer than expected, but the wait was worth it.

What was once an abandoned structure is now a living, breathing space that connects me to nature, my journey, and the people who helped shape it.

Every morning, I wake up to the golden light spilling through the windows, the scent of fresh earth in the air, and the distant murmur of the ocean. It is a home built not just of materials but of memories, resilience, and deep-rooted passion.

And that’s what makes it mine.

Thinking of Buying & Renovating in Rural Portugal? My Advice:

If you're dreaming of restoring an old house in Portugal, here are some lessons from my journey:

Fall in Love with the Process – It’s not just about the result. The challenges, the creative decisions, and the hands-on moments make it truly yours.

Choose an Architect Who Understands Your Vision – They should align with your values, especially if sustainability and natural materials are important to you.

Be Patient with Bureaucracy

Permits, approvals, and paperwork take time. Expect delays and plan accordingly.

Respect the Existing Structures

Work with the house rather than against it. Let its history shine through.

Prioritize Energy Efficiency

Invest in insulation, solar panels, and passive heating/cooling strategies from the start.

Find Skilled Local Artisans

They bring authenticity and craftsmanship that mass-produced materials simply can’t replicate.

Integrate Nature

Whether it’s a small herb garden, an outdoor shower, or large windows framing the landscape, let the outdoors become part of your home.

Expect Surprises

No matter how well you plan, unexpected issues will arise. Stay flexible and embrace the adventure.