International Center for the Arts
Pitágoras Architects

Photo:  Joao MorgadoPitágoras Architects's brief was to turn the Guimarães marketplace into a multifunctional space dedicated to artistic, economic, cultural and social activities within the scope of European Capital of Culture 2012.

The brief extended to the functional program for both the new International Center for the Arts Jose de Guimarães and the existing buildings, as well as the adjacent plots of land. The square has been paved with concrete slabs and the existing large trees preserved. The new moveable urban furniture leaves most of the space free for different activities.


Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

The new building, a series of irregularly stacked volumes clad in brass and glass, takes a radically different language from its surroundings. The golden brass volumes are interspersed with contrasting glass coated surfaces indicating the building's openings while letting filtered light into the white internal spaces.


Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

The four-story center houses a home to a permanent collection of works by local artist Jose de Guimarães, performance and workshop spaces, an auditorium, offices and an art gallery. Two levels are underground.


Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

Photo:  Joao Morgado

When interpreting the program, we aimed to allow for the possibility of each one of its components to function independently and simultaneously, creating accesses to each of the various services and support areas, as well as to the outdoor square
and garden./Pitágoras Architects

Drawing courtesy Pitágoras ArquitectosSite Plan

Drawing courtesy Pitágoras ArquitectosFirst Floor Plan Plan

Drawing courtesy Pitágoras ArquitectosRoof Plan

Drawing courtesy Pitágoras ArquitectosSection