Estefânia NA Apartment | João Tiago Aguiar, arquitectos

The extensive renovation of a 270sqm apartment located in a 1940s building aimed to achieve a harmonious blend of historical charm and contemporary design. Originally configured with seven bedrooms, the layout underwent a meticulous transformation, evolving into a 3-bedroom ensuite apartment with an additional two bedrooms sharing a spacious bathroom equipped with a separate bathtub, shower, and toilet.

Recognizing the impracticality of the original compartmentalized layout, especially in the social area for a family of seven, various walls were removed and replaced with structural steel beams. Simultaneously, the entrance hall was eliminated, fostering the design of a more expansive and open social area. The former balcony, previously transformed into a closed veranda by previous owners, was reinstated to its original state, providing the desired outdoor space.

Preserving the historical character of the apartment was paramount. Ornate ceilings throughout were meticulously restored, except in areas requiring structural changes. The most exquisite ornament from the three demolished compartments was carefully chosen and replicated, enhancing the new living, dining, and TV area.

Striking a balance between old and new, the corridor, bathrooms, pantry, laundry, and kitchen received false ceilings to conceal technical installations like HVAC systems while ensuring thermal comfort. The original wooden floor was fully refurbished, complemented by natural stone and cement tiles in service areas, bathrooms, and kitchen. The pattern from the cement tiles influenced the design of various furniture elements, including cupboards and sliding kitchen doors.

Storage solutions were a key focus, with sideboards, bookcases, cupboards, a movable fireplace, glass studying tables, and wardrobes strategically designed. Even the skirtings of the wardrobes were repurposed for storage, considering the original recovered skirtings were 20cm high. 

Careful attention was given to lighting design, aiming to highlight special original elements alongside contemporary features, achieving a harmonious combination.

Two formerly dark indoor bedrooms were transformed into two bathrooms each, ensuring that none of the bedrooms lacked natural lighting or ventilation. Two of the original bathrooms (the main ones that served all the rooms) were repurposed as an additional ensuite bedroom. To enhance the separation between private and social areas, a guest toilet was strategically placed just before the pivoting glass door, serving as the gateway to all the bedrooms and conveniently located next to the kitchen. This addition offered practicality for guests and family members, contributing to the desired distinction between private and social spaces within the apartment.

In summary, the intervention aimed to achieve a seamless integration of old and new, creating a living space where historical charm and modern functionality coexist in perfect harmony.

Project team: Rúben Mateus, Maria Sousa Otto, Nuno Sequeira, Diogo Romão, Pedro Vieira, Rita Cardoso de Lemos, Giulia Giust, Francisco Barosa, Samanta Cardoso Menezes, Maria Reis, Susana Luís, Arianna Camozzi, João Morais, Renata Vieira.

Builder: Oficina dos Sonhos

Engineering: Engenharia 3.4

Photography: FG + SG – FOTOGRAFIA DE ARQUITECTURA

Website: https://ultimasreportagens.com/