A green oasis suspended between architecture and landscape

In the heart of Miraflores, one of Lisbon’s most privileged residential enclaves, rises an urban complex that redefines the concept of contemporary well-being. This project, developed by NORFIN and designed and executed by Atelier Sidney Quintela, embraces a balanced dialogue between architecture, landscape and water. Its undisputed protagonist is a sculptural pool, conceived not only as a leisure area but as a true central piece of the entire residential ensemble.

The pool stretches longitudinally between gardens, relaxation platforms and a rationalist architecture of pure lines. The design incorporates different depth levels, shallow water-sheet areas ideal for resting, and swimming zones that project towards the urban horizon. The pool’s cladding—Bali Verde tiles, supplied by our distributor Gama Uno—is a material capable of transcending its technical function to become an atmosphere-creating element.

This porcelain tile is designed to emulate the chromatic richness and tonal variations of natural Balinese stone. Its blend of deep greens, turquoises, and subtle greyish hues produces a vibrant aquatic effect that changes with daylight and water depth. Under direct sunlight, the pieces reflect sparkling highlights, creating a visual effect reminiscent of exotic resort pools. In shallower areas, the tone becomes warmer and more crystalline, while in deeper sections it acquires a more intense appearance.

This visual richness not only enhances the water but also directly influences the perception of space. The cladding is used both inside the pool basin and on the perimeter walls that elevate the water’s edge and act as transitional elements with the surrounding vegetation. Atelier Sidney Quintela has taken advantage of the versatility of Bali Verde to articulate different atmospheres within a single aquatic journey. In beach-style areas, where the water covers only a few centimeters, the ceramic surface becomes a luminous canvas that enhances the clarity of the water. This smooth transition creates perfect spaces for sunbathing with feet submerged, a common gesture in high-end projects that seek to blend aesthetics and comfort.

As one moves toward the central area, the pool becomes deeper and adopts a more solemn character. The tones intensify, and the water sheet reflects the surrounding architecture with almost mirror-like precision. The buildings bordering the complex, with their broad terraces and modular façades, find in the pool a reflective element that amplifies the sense of spaciousness and visual continuity. The combination of contemporary materials, water and tropical vegetation generates an urban resort atmosphere that elevates the residential experience. The project also stands out for its landscape integration. The gardens, laid out in clean lines and planted with large, sculptural species, accompany the length of the pool and reinforce the verticality of the ensemble.

Taken as a whole, this green oasis in Miraflores is not merely a pool but an architectural gesture imbued with intention: to connect residents with light, water and nature, using a material that stands out for its beauty, expressiveness and ability to transform spatial perception. The result is a project that redefines the concept of contemporary luxury, taking ceramic design and landscape architecture to a new level of sophistication.