Building on top of what already exists

We also try to connect to the existing structure and culture of our surroundings. Farmers have been cultivating the land in Monchique from Roman Times up to now. They are the true experts. The different fruit trees on our land were planted on their specific spot with a reason. The apple trees are planted on the colder spots and the citruses are planted on spots were there is less frost damage in cold winters . The terraces for growing fruits trees and vegetables are situated below the living house. In case of a bushfire the house is less likely to get caught by the fire since most wild bushes and other burning material is on the mountain on top of the house. The houses are build on a level that can be reached by the water from the stream by gravity. Everything was well thought of and carefully planned. This is our starting point from which we want to improve the things on our land. In the early days families consisted of 5-9 people. We are with 2-3 people. This means we have to make use of machines that require an improved layout of the land, with respect to the things that are already there.