In addition to the restoration of the façade and roofs, a complete rehabilitation of the interior equipment has been added, which makes it possible to have 79 market stalls (protected by a metal cover), 38 outdoor markets, and 10 restaurants. In addition, a space for "show-cooking" activities has been set up with a fully equipped kitchen to host events related to cooking.
On the upper floors, a long open corridor now functions as a viewing space for the building. Finally, the market has improved its accessibility thanks to the installation of 10 lifts for users and merchants, as well as direct access to the metro.
For the evacuation of rainwater and wastewater, a linear and punctual drainage system was designed that was distributed through different areas and floors of the market. The chosen drainage channels are made of polymer concrete and combine ACO's Self and Multidrain solutions.
Mercado do Bolhão renovation by Nuno Valentim. Photograph by Marta Maria Ferreira / Luís Ferreira Alves.
Project description by Nuno Valentim
The building protection as a “monument of public interest” assigned to Mercado do Bolhão in 2013, recognizes heritage value in two inseparable dimensions – the uniqueness of the Beaux Arts building and its function as a traditional market.
The proposed intervention in the building and market (conceived by Correia da Silva in 1914/17) is based on the recovery and enhancement of the original matrix of the building and the modernization necessary to meet the requirements of its function.
This transformative action, attentive to the existing heritage, aims to enhance the building's identity and coherence, removing spurious elements and managing new infrastructures without losing its most important values - the sellers, the users, and the fresh market activity.
