mateo arquitectura establishes cultural center in castelo branco

mateo arquitectura establishes cultural center in castelo branco
photo by adrià goula
all images courtesy of mateo arquitectura

‘cultural center in castello branco’ has been constructed by mateo arquitectura, forming an extension of the public square landscaped by the same practice. located in central portugal, the building floats above the plaza, transforming castelo branco’s old town into a lively and active cultural hub.

the center forms an extension of the public square landscaped by the same architects
photo by adrià goula

separate wood and zinc-clad façades establish a visual contrast for the scheme, allowing the structure to become a reflection of its internal functions. resting on two concrete strips, the center sits above a sheltered ice-rink, establishing a continuation of the public square at ground level.

the scheme transforms castelo branco’s old town into an active cultural hub
photo by adrià goula

moving down through the landscaped plaza, one enters the building almost without realizing via a ramp descending into the museum’s subterranean lobby. light enters this basement level through skylights, creating an inviting and tranquil ambiance, accommodating galleries and administration offices.

the structure is a manifestation of its internal functions
photo by adrià goula

the ground level serves as a transitional area connecting the site’s various programs, and forming a close relationship with the adjacent public square: an enclosed outdoor volume generating a vivid display of light, color and movement. the efficient program of space continues at the upper two levels of the scheme where a sweeping ramp links galleries at first and second storeys.

an ice-rink forms an extension of the town square beneath the building
photo by adrià goula

a large auditorium is housed at the higher levels of center, with an adjoining bar offering views across the old town. the roof of the structure, as well as concealing the building’s services and machinery, forms a huge open skylight illuminating the upper exhibition halls.

a sweeping ramp connects gallery space at first and second storeys
photo by adrià goula

the scheme features a compact and efficient use of space
photo by adrià goula

under the structure at night
photo by adrià goula

the cultural center forms a strong and bold symbol for the region
photo by adrià goula

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project info:

author: josep lluís mateo
collaborating architect: carlos reis figueiredo
location: praça largo da devesa, castelo branco, portugal
client: castelo branco council, polis project
surface area of the public spaces: 60,000 sqm
surface area of the cultural center: 4,300 sqm
competition: 2000
project: 2000 – 2006
construction of the public spaces: 2006 – 2007
construction of the cultural center: 2012 – 2013
photography: adrià goula