A building on a privileged site in dialogue with the emblematic D.Luís I bridge, the river, facing the houses and Porto´s Ribeira, embedded within a unique landscape that leads us where the Douro crosses the horizon. Building on top of this area protected under the flag of Unesco with its charming historical character, was a delicate process ? a deep reflection made of very strong restrictions.

© José Campos

Architects: Nuno de Melo e Sousa, Hugo Ferreira Arquitectos

Location: Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

Area: 300.0 sqm

Project Year: 2016

Photographs: José Campos

© José Campos

A building on a privileged site in dialogue with the emblematic D.Luís I bridge, the river, facing the houses and Porto´s Ribeira, embedded within a unique landscape that leads us where the Douro crosses the horizon. Building on top of this area protected under the flag of Unesco with its charming historical character, was a delicate process ? a deep reflection made of very strong restrictions.
Site Plan

The existing building, buffeted by abandonment and full of add-ons, would have to adapt to a new type of use: apartments for local tourism. On four floors, measuring 13.80m by 7.20m, it was necessary to organise five independent studios for flexible use, a penthouse, a reception with a common kitchen, back office an...