The main architectural elements were preserved, such as the tile cladding and the stone façades.
Located on Rua das Pretas, in the very heart of Lisbon, By Liberdade is an urban rehabilitation project focused on an architectural complex that was expanded and altered to unify two historic buildings (nos. 33–37 and 41–47).
The main objective of Contacto Atlântico, the studio responsible for the project, was to recover the original character while equipping the buildings with modern infrastructure. In this way, the existing volumetry was fully respected, skylights were created, elevators were installed, construction elements in poor condition were replaced, and the infrastructure was modernised.
Set within a total construction area of 1,134.79 square metres (sqm) and a footprint of 292.90 sqm, By Liberdade stands out for its façades, where the ground-floor openings were reinstated in accordance with the historic layout. The edges of the doorways were restored, and window frames and glazing were updated, meeting current safety and durability standards.
Particular emphasis is placed on the preservation of the light-blue Viúva Lamego tile cladding on the 33–37 building, as well as the conservation of the redesigned openings and balconies, the stone façades, the stone masonry walls, and the two stair cores.
At ground-floor level, the street fronts now form a continuous commercial space, following improvements to the connection with the pavement and access points. The ground floor prioritised open-plan areas, while the entrances to the upper floors were kept independent and the residential organisation maintained at one dwelling per floor.
Inside, only non-structural partitions were rehabilitated, preserving staircases and entrance halls, while an elevator was added to ensure accessibility.
In a statement, André Caiado, founder of Contacto Atlântico in 1996, highlights the company’s “pride” in signing this project, “contributing to the recovery of the city by restoring its beauty and historical identity,” referring to By Liberdade as “yet another example of how urban rehabilitation can greatly benefit our capital.”