BYLiberdade

BYLiberdade represents a precise intervention in contemporary architecture in Portugal, focused on the enlargement, alteration, and unification of two contiguous buildings on Rua das Pretas, in Lisbon. The project preserves the original architectural character while reinforcing the identity of the ensemble and its relationship with the street. This balanced approach reflects a commitment to high-end architecture, where heritage and contemporary use are carefully aligned.

The intervention retains key structural and architectural elements, including the stone façades, masonry walls, and the two original stair cores. By maintaining these defining components, the project ensures continuity with the existing urban fabric while enhancing the clarity and presence of the buildings within the streetscape.

Architectural Design, Materiality and Programme

At ground floor level, the frontages are unified into a continuous retail space, improving the connection with the public pavement and clarifying access. This intervention strengthens the commercial presence while maintaining coherence with the surrounding context. On the upper floors, entrances remain independent, and the residential layout preserves one dwelling per level, ensuring a clear and legible mixed-use organisation.

The project includes five residential units, one per floor, reflecting the typology characteristic of the Rua das Pretas area. This approach reinforces both functional clarity and architectural continuity.

On the façades, the original ground-floor openings are reinstated in accordance with the historic layout, and end doors are carefully restored. Frames and glazing are updated to meet current standards of security and durability, while preserving the original expression. This attention to materiality ensures a consistent and respectful architectural outcome.

Internally, the intervention focuses on non-structural partitions, optimising circulation and spatial organisation without compromising the integrity of the building. Staircases and entrance halls are preserved for their architectural value, and a lift is introduced to improve accessibility across all levels.

Leading Architecture Firm in Portugal: Urban Continuity and Living Experience

The ground floor is designed with open-plan retail areas, enhancing flexibility and usability. On the upper levels, the apartments benefit from natural light and effective ventilation, contributing to a comfortable and functional living environment.

The relationship between architecture and context is central to the project, ensuring that the intervention reinforces the continuity and character of Rua das Pretas. BYLiberdade restores the coherence of the urban fabric while introducing contemporary standards of comfort and performance.

As part of Contacto Atlântico’s portfolio, the project reinforces the studio’s position as a leading architecture firm in Portugal, recognised for delivering interventions that combine precision, heritage sensitivity, and architectural clarity.

Learn more about other projects such as Panorama Amoreiras.