Description of the project by Aires Mateus
The program: The private area has a private patio in the middle. Meanwhile, the social area such as living room and dining room are situated on the upper level. By exploring not too large space for the building, the architect explored the underground floor more creatively. The private areas are at street level under the plot, around a central courtyard with rooms opening to private patios in a intimate environment. The living rooms are around a void, that collects light from above and gazes the castle at the city centre.
The architecture design of the Leiria Castle enables much natural light entering the interior through the void. Besides, the courtyards surrounded by private areas also get much natural light from the void to the level garden. Located on the high area with the view of the city and Leiria outskirt, the castle looks so special with the unique architecture design.
CREDITS
Architects: Manuel Aires Mateus
Location: Leiria, Portugal
Collaborator: Humberto Fonseca, Luísa Sol, Tiago Santos
Project year: 2008 – 2010
Photographs: FG+SG – Fernando Guerra, Sergio Guerra
