Home Architecture Vertical Harmony: Mário Alves’ Visionary Architecture in Aveiro, Portugal

Vertical Harmony: Mário Alves’ Visionary Architecture in Aveiro, Portugal

The architecture of staggered balconies that reach out over the city of Aveiro in Portugal

Have you ever seen a building that seems to dance with its surroundings? A structure that not only occupies space but also interacts with it, almost like a conversation? Well, get ready, because today we are talking about exactly that. Mário Alves, a renowned architect, has created such a building in Aveiro, Portugal. He has designed a collective housing project that truly redefines the concept of blending in while standing out. It’s a fascinating study of how architecture can respond to a specific place. But it can also push the boundaries of what is traditionally expected of buildings. What happens when we look beyond four walls and a roof? What kind of dialogue can it have with its context? These are some of the questions this project brings to the fore.

This isn’t just about constructing a building. It’s about crafting a living, breathing space that resonates with its environment. You know how some places just feel “right”? This project has that feeling. Let’s explore together.

The architecture of staggered balconies that reach out over the city of Aveiro in Portugal
The architecture of staggered balconies that reach out over the city of Aveiro in Portugal. Photography by Ivo Tavares.

A Unique Corner in Aveiro: The Site’s Influence on the Architecture

The location of this project is not just any plot of land. This land sits on a corner in a newly developed part of Aveiro. The site has a particular challenge. The architecture needed to be a natural extension of an existing building. The architect had previously created the neighboring structure, but it was from a different era. What a challenge, right? To connect two distinct periods in architectural styles? However, Mário Alves took this challenge and turned it into an opportunity. Furthermore, the building is located at a point where a construction line ends. This has become a crucial design element of the overall concept.

The project had to respect the existing urban context. At the same time, it needed to establish its own identity. Do you see how the constraints of a site can lead to incredible creative solutions? We have to consider that this project was specifically designed for collective housing. This means that the building needs to be both functional and pleasing to many.

Continuing the Dialogue: Horizontal Lines and Vertical Aspirations

The most important goal was to make the most of the site. How could the views be maximized? What about sun exposure? The new project had to seamlessly merge with the old. To achieve this, Mário Alves decided to extend the predominant design language. In this case, the horizontal lines of the existing building. However, the new construction would not simply copy. Instead, it would elevate the concept. This means that the proposed structure maintains the horizontal rhythm. But it transforms it into a distinctly vertical form.

Think of it as a beautiful conversation between two buildings. One laid the foundation, and the other built upon it. This is not an easy task. But it shows how a cohesive design vision can span decades. But how can a building be both horizontal and vertical simultaneously? That’s the beauty of innovative architecture.

Breaking the Mold: Dynamic Volume and Rhythmic Design

Now, imagine this: the building is no longer just a flat, horizontal structure. Instead, it rises vertically. However, this is no ordinary vertical element. This building is dynamic, as it seeks to break the mold. In fact, the horizontal slats, a prominent feature of the existing building, are not abandoned. They extend beyond the edges of the new volume. This creates an interplay between the interior and exterior spaces. Do you see how this design provides both rhythm and movement to the overall structure?

This design is a clever way to engage the city. It allows the inhabitants to feel connected to their surroundings. The horizontal lines projecting outwards create a feeling of openness. It’s a very clever design. What are your thoughts about this idea of merging interior and exterior spaces in architecture?

Peeking Out: Views and Perspectives

Because it’s a corner building and has a vertical design, the horizontal slats project outwards. This detail is not just a stylistic choice. It’s a functional one too. It allows residents to enjoy panoramic views of the city. It’s almost as if the building itself is a viewpoint. Moreover, the building isn’t enclosed. It has a natural visual connection to the outside world.

This element of the design is very crucial. Mário Alves understood that the view of the city is an important part of the housing experience. So, he designed a building that can fully embrace that perspective. In essence, residents have the best of both worlds. Privacy within their homes and breathtaking city views just outside their windows. What do you find most compelling about this approach to architecture?

Final Thoughts on this Architectural Harmony

Mário Alves’ building in Aveiro, Portugal is characterized by thoughtful and innovative architectural design. The building engages with its surroundings. It establishes its own distinct identity. It responds to the needs of its residents. It’s a beautiful dance of form and function. This architecture creates a living, breathing element in Aveiro.

In short, this collective housing project is a powerful example of how architecture can be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. It challenges us to think about the relationship between buildings and the spaces they inhabit. Also, it showcases the power of design in shaping our experiences. We hope that you have enjoyed this exploration of an incredible architecture project. What did you learn about design from this article?


All images © by Ivo Tavares and Mário Alves. Don’t hesitate to find other inspiring architecture projects on WE AND THE COLOR.

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