Rehabilitation of the Building at Rua da Madalena 88 – Lisbon

This project focused on the rehabilitation and adaptation of an existing building, guided by a principle of respect for the original structure. The intervention was developed in harmony with the building’s existing framework, maintaining all structural alignments to ensure a sensitive and coherent restoration.
Inside, the main staircase was restored and extended to provide access to the attic, which was converted into a habitable space. The stone masonry walls and wooden structural framework were preserved, honoring the building’s historical character.
The condition of the existing floors determined the approach to their restoration. Where repair was not possible, new wooden beams were installed to ensure stability and continuity.
Decorative wooden elements such as trims, skirting boards, and ceiling moldings were replaced where necessary, using traditional carpentry techniques faithful to the original design.
Flooring throughout the building consists of solid wood boards, except in kitchens and bathrooms, which feature hydraulic mosaic tiles. In cases where original kitchens were converted into bedrooms, stone chimneys were preserved, and tile coverings were either restored or integrated into other interior areas.
On the exterior, all stonework and ironwork were carefully repaired. The windows and doors were replaced with wooden frames that offer enhanced thermal and acoustic performance, while remaining true to the building’s original appearance. Interior wooden shutters were maintained as shading elements.
The renovated building now serves mixed-use purposes, with commercial spaces on the ground floor and residential apartments on the upper levels.
A obra é composta por dois tipos de uso: comércio no piso 0 e habitação nos restantes pisos.
Access to the apartments is provided by the original staircase and a newly installed elevator. The building follows a “Left–Right” typology, featuring two to three units per floor:Ground floor: entrances to the commercial units. Floors 1 to 3: three apartments per floor — a T2+1 (east), a T1 (south), and a T3 (west). Fourth floor: two apartments — a T0 (east) and a T1 (west).