Open Competition, 3rd prize
Almada, Portugal, 2021
plot size: 2 800 sqm
gross built area: 6 000 sqm
Our entry proposes a subtle addition to the preexisting building, while establishing a new civic piazza with an entirely new wing, unifying the complex.
The brief asked to adapt a 1950’s building by Portuguese modernist master Francisco Keil do Amaral to a new function as City Hall for the city of Almada.
before & after: ca rezzonico, venice
the project strategy reads into the classical examples, proposing a confident expansion with the same rules of the preexisting building
yellowred: demolitions vs new additions
The brief asked to adapt a 1950’s building by Portuguese modernist master Francisco Keil do Amaral to a new function as City Hall for the city of Almada.
A straightforward reuse programme, this project carefully tackles the delicate issue of what to keep from the original structure, originally devised as a headquarters for the Electric Power Company, and what to add, highlighting an idea of completion, general coherence and respect towards the original building.
The project strategy reads into the classical examples, proposing a confident expansion with the same rules of the preexisting building, looking beyond the rigid dogmas of the Venice charter and its obsession with highlighting the difference between old and new.
Our entry proposes a subtle addition to the preexisting building, while establishing a new civic piazza with an entirely new wing, unifying the whole complex.