This project stems from the rehabilitation of the mansards of a 19th-century building with patrimonial value, located in a prime position at the top of 8 de Maio Square in the heart of Figueira da Foz. The building, facing the river, boasts three floors and an attic. Its rectangular plan, symmetrical elevations, and three-pitched roof define its architectural character. Situated in the historic center, it occupies a unique and privileged spot.
Preserving Heritage, Rethinking Functionality
The existing roof and its structure presented several pathologies, offering an opportunity to redesign and optimize the mansard floor comprehensively. Key concerns included preserving the building’s historic value, enhancing safety, improving performance and comfort, and maximizing the usable space to ensure a profitable conservation effort.
The project aimed to create a harmonious blend of new elements and the existing structure while meeting several key objectives. First, the design prioritized maximizing views, ensuring vistas of the square and the river were given prominence. The roof was meticulously reconstructed to reflect its original design, featuring three pitched slopes with Marseille tiles and concealed gutters for a seamless appearance.
To ensure structural integrity, a new framework was introduced, stabilizing the building and extending its lifespan without altering the existing foundation. The architecture of the new structure was thoughtfully designed, with its geometry, rhythm, and materials influencing the interior design. This approach also enhanced the ceiling heights, adding a sense of openness.
Natural light and ventilation were improved by incorporating zinc-coated mansard windows that align with the rhythm of the windows on the lower floors. Finally, the top-floor hardwood flooring was reinforced and reconstructed to match the original design, preserving the charm and authenticity of the space.
The redesign includes improved access to the mansard floor with the addition of new stairs and an elevator. The floor plan has been divided into two apartments to maximize functionality and comfort.
The first is a two-room apartment featuring an open-plan living room and kitchen, one bedroom, a bathroom, and a technical/storage space for added convenience. The second is a three-room apartment that includes an additional bedroom and a slightly larger open-plan living area, complete with a kitchen island.
Both apartments are thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light and take full advantage of the views. Living rooms face south, offering stunning vistas of the square and the river, while other rooms are oriented east and west, ensuring that every habitable space benefits from natural light and a window.
The interior design embraces simplicity, characterized by the structural grid of the roof, abundant natural light, and the interplay of white finishes with natural wood elements. Warm wooden tones on the floors and ceilings add texture and harmony, creating inviting and timeless spaces.
The proposed architecture reflects the philosophy that every intervention should honor the vision and techniques of its era. The design doesn’t replicate or overshadow the existing; instead, it acknowledges differences and ensures continuities, adding a new chapter to the building’s history.
Fact File
Location: Figueira da Foz, Portugal
Project Name: 8th of May Square Mansards
Architecture Office: Tisem
Main Architect: Diana Bizarro
Total Area: 200 m²
Photo Credit: Ivo Tavares Studio
