Selected work in architecture, art, furniture and workshops — built with straw, earth, lime and wood.
Terrapalha is the studio of architect Catarina Pinto. Graduated in 2004 from the Lisbon Faculty of Architecture, she has developed pioneering work in Portugal in design and construction with natural materials — straw, wood, earth and natural plasters.
She cares about the integrity of processes, the essential, the handcrafted, the place, the community, ecology and tradition — alongside a pioneering spirit. Her knowledge is as much design-based as it is hands-on on site.
From architecture and engineering to the building site, from materials to training — a complete natural-building service.
We develop the several phases of an architectural project: from the preliminary study, to licensing procedures, execution project and technical assistance on site. To our services we add experienced partners to offer a complete service, with the various engineering specialties.
Renovation of old buildings with an ecological approach. Restoration, reinforced thermal insulation, traditional plasters, efficient window frames. Projects that value the pre-existing building while providing comfort and contemporary living.
We advise and supply building materials for ecological finishes and paints. Plasters and paints in lime and in clay, natural pigments, earthen floors, lime floors, Moroccan tadelakt, ecological varnishes.
We are specialized in construction with straw, with a professional path in Europe and Portugal. We know the various techniques and the state of the art to better suit each case. Our experience allows us to develop the right project and monitor quality on site.
We represent EcoCocon prefabricated straw wall elements: wooden framework and high-quality straw thermal insulation. Easy and quick installation with superior energy efficiency, able to achieve the Passivhaus standard.
We provide counseling and consulting services so you can make informed choices and find customized solutions. We organize natural construction courses and lectures for different contexts and audiences: builders, architects, engineers, self-builders, owners, students.
Natural materials invite us to express ourselves. They are abundant, beautiful, healthy and biodegradable. Art as a manifesto for the awareness of the use of natural resources and ecological construction. We can create infinitely.
Our doors are open — we are ready to help you start a new project.
