Pastry Alcôa
Description
The Pastry Alcoa project focuses on the rehabilitation of a 111.70 m² shop located at Rua Garrett 37–39, in Chiado, Lisbon. Originally designed by architect Conceição Silva in collaboration with ceramic artist Querubim Lapa, the space holds significant architectural and cultural value. The intervention reflects a precise approach to contemporary architecture in Portugal, where preservation and adaptation are carefully balanced to support a new programme within a historic setting, aligned with the principles of high-end architecture.
The project involves the restoration of this Historic and Emblematic Shop, formerly known as Casa da Sorte, and its conversion into a food and beverage space without on-site cooking. The architectural strategy ensures that the original character of the space is maintained, while adapting the interior to meet the operational requirements of Pastry Alcoa. This transformation reinforces the relevance of the building within Chiado’s urban and commercial context.
Architectural Design, Materiality and Identity
The design is guided by a reinterpretation of the original architectural language of the former lottery house. This approach allows the new programme to be clearly expressed while maintaining continuity with the building’s history. The intervention preserves key elements that define the identity of the space, including timber joinery, stonework, and the original service counter.
Materiality plays a central role in achieving this balance. Existing materials are restored and integrated with new elements in a controlled and coherent manner, ensuring durability and visual consistency. This careful articulation reinforces the architectural integrity of the space while supporting its new function as a pastry shop dedicated to traditional Portuguese convent sweets.
The project establishes a dialogue between past and present, where the new brand identity is clearly expressed without erasing the memory of the previous use. This layered approach enhances the uniqueness of the space and contributes to a distinctive retail experience.
Leading Architecture Firm in Portugal: Heritage and Experience
The relationship between architecture and heritage is central to the intervention, guiding each design decision with precision and restraint. The project respects the historical significance of the space while ensuring it meets contemporary standards of use and comfort.
Pastry Alcoa stands as a clear example of how architectural intervention can revitalise historic interiors while maintaining their identity. As part of Contacto Atlântico’s portfolio, it reinforces the studio’s position as a leading architecture firm in Portugal, recognised for delivering refined and context-sensitive solutions that combine preservation, functionality, and design excellence.