The added value of upgrading the outdoor space
“A seaside oasis surrounded by nature’s perfection” is how the Pestana Group describes this unique space, located on the Tróia Peninsula. With a total area of 120 hectares, three exclusive beach accesses and more than 360 villas and apartments, Pestana Tróia Eco‑Resort & Residence is set within a carefully preserved natural landscape, where comfort and simplicity sit alongside the sea, native vegetation and the tranquillity of the surrounding reserve.
It was in this privileged setting that Horto do Campo Grande was invited to collaborate on the project to upgrade the outdoor space of one of the residential plots within the development. The intervention was based on the landscape design developed by architect David Flores, from the Biodesign studio, which sought to respond to the site’s ecological and functional specifics with sustainable, simple and integrated solutions.
To learn more about the concept, approach and solutions found for this landscape project, Horto do Campo Grande spoke with architect David Flores, who led the landscape design.
What was the starting point for this landscape upgrade project?
The proposal started from the need to revitalise the outdoor space of this villa, creating a green structure that would strengthen the relationship with the landscape, respect the site’s natural identity, and allow the garden to be enjoyed intuitively and fully.
How does this garden connect with the uses and the architecture of the house?
The design sought to establish a smooth dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces. We took care to organise the routes, define seating areas, create moments of visual framing and allow direct relationships with the garden’s plant elements. The house connects with the outdoors through several points, and the garden responds to that language, complementing it with shade, privacy and a human scale.
What are the key structural elements of the proposal?
The project defines several key areas: the entrance courtyard, the framing gardens (entrance and bedrooms), the main and secondary paths, the recreation clearing (requested by the client), and a “chill-out” area next to the pool deck. We also created a discreet maintenance route. Each of these zones was designed with a specific purpose, ensuring functionality and plenty of comfort.
What construction solutions were used?
We aimed to keep the paving permeable, working with existing or similar materials, such as gravel and wood. The stabilisation of the slopes was done with buried beams in an inverted V. In the “chill-out” area, we designed a continuous low wall-bench in wood, which extends the deck and adapts to the topography.
And what about the planting? What was the selection criterion?
All the planting was selected in coordination with the list provided by the development, prioritising native species adapted to the site. Low-maintenance plants with reduced watering needs, which follow the structure of the space, creating shaded areas, guiding views, and reinforcing privacy between plots. The planting layout allows for a clear reading of the spaces and a magnificent experience throughout the seasons.
Was irrigation a concern in the project design?
Yes, of course. Although low water consumption is expected, the initial establishment of the planting requires support. We opted for an automated, buried drip irrigation system, which minimises losses and allows rigorous water control.
How do you describe the relationship between functionality and aesthetics in this garden?
We believe aesthetics should arise from functionality and integration with the place. The garden was designed to be lived in, walked through, and observed. The skate clearing, the deck, the paths and the resting areas come together naturally, without imposition. The materials and plants don’t compete with the architecture; they extend it.
In your view, what role should landscape architecture play in projects like this?
Essential. In residential projects like this, but also in urban or public projects, landscape architecture is the link between what is built and its surroundings, making spaces more liveable and coherent. The garden is not an accessory element; it is an integral part of the life project in that place.
“Enjoying contact with nature, making the most of a welcoming and tranquil space that preserves the environment was what we set out to achieve when developing this project to upgrade the outdoor space of this plot in this privileged resort,” says Vera Clara, Landscape Architect and Head of the Project and Construction Department for Green Spaces at Horto do Campo Grande.
“The plants, shrubs, climbers and trees selected that can be found in the landscaped areas surrounding this plot recreate the natural vegetation. They are plants with lower water and maintenance needs, in different sizes and shades of green, some with small flowers in different colours, recreating a countryside space full of aromas that changes with the seasons, awakens all our senses, and conveys well-being,” says Rita Cabral, the Agronomist Engineer responsible for managing this work.
DISCOVER SOME OF THE PLANTS SELECTED FOR THIS PROJECT
Plants: Armeria maritima and Armeria pugens, Erica carnea, Euphorbia characias, Helichrysum stoechas, Lavandula dent. americana, Lavandula stoechas, Miscanthus sinensis, Onosis ramosissima, green Santolina, Stipa tenuissima, Pennisetum setaceum rubrum, Thymus vulgaris.
Shrubs: Atriplex halimus, Malaleuca, Metrosideros excelsa, Pistacia lentiscus, Rosmarinus prostratus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Tamarix africana, and Teucrium fruticans.
Climbers: Bougainvillea
Trees: Cupressus and Pinus pinea
Landscape design:
Arch. David Flores, Biodesign Studio
HCG execution, team:
Project Director: Arch. Vera Clara; Site Director: Eng. Rita Cabral; Site Foreman: António Monteiro; Paver / Mason and Gardeners: Manuel Fonseca, José Duarte, Nsimba Garcia and Paulo Mukue; Heavy transport with articulated arm: André Rodrigues; Woodwork construction: HCG partnership with Carmo Wood.
© Companhia das Cores for Horto do Campo Grande
