Corujeira 113 Renovation: Modern Heritage Duplex in Porto by Impare Arquitectura

Located in the vibrant Praça da Corujeira, Porto, the Corujeira 113 Renovation by Impare Arquitectura is a masterful example of adaptive reuse and contemporary residential design. This 150 m² duplex apartment, originally constructed in the 1960s by architect Agostinho Ferreira de Almeida, has been meticulously refurbished to meet the needs of modern urban living while respecting the historical context of the building. Photographed by Ivo Tavares Studio, the renovation seamlessly blends functionality, comfort, and heritage preservation.

Context and Urban Significance

Porto’s eastern districts are undergoing a transformation, responding to the evolving demands of a contemporary city. Projects such as the redevelopment of Praça da Corujeira and adaptive reuse initiatives like the old Porto Industrial Slaughterhouse by Kengo Kuma exemplify this urban regeneration. Within this context, refurbishing residential units in historic buildings is essential to reinforce the city’s housing supply while preserving architectural heritage.

The Corujeira 113 flat occupies a duplex layout, with its upper floor facing the street and square, including a garage and main entrance, while the lower floor opens onto a small private patio overlooking the Dragão Stadium, offering both urban engagement and intimate outdoor space.

Design Approach and Spatial Organization

The original flat presented a labyrinthine layout, fragmented by previous modifications, with small, irregular rooms that hindered connectivity between floors. The renovation aimed to reorganize circulation, enhance natural light, and optimize spatial clarity, while preserving the three-bedroom typology and enhancing functionality.

On the lower floor, the design reinforces the connection to the outdoor patio and social spaces, featuring:

• A spacious living room seamlessly integrated with the kitchen
• A dedicated technical space with laundry facilities
• A service toilet for convenience

The upper floor prioritizes privacy for the sleeping areas, strategically separated from the social spaces. A split vestibule efficiently organizes access to the garage, bedrooms, and lower level, enhancing both flow and usability.

Materials and Interior Details

The renovation highlights thoughtful material choices and high-quality finishes from trusted manufacturers such as Geberit, Sika, CIN, Diera, Efapel, Finsa, Roca, Sosoares, Teka, Tupai, Vescon, and W7. The interiors feature:

• Modern kitchens with durable countertops and integrated storage
• Clean lines and functional circulation in stairways and hallways
• Generous glazing that brings daylight deep into the duplex

By carefully balancing historical preservation with contemporary design, the project creates a harmonious and flexible living environment that caters to modern lifestyles.

Architectural Impact

The Corujeira 113 Renovation exemplifies how heritage buildings in Porto can be transformed to meet contemporary living standards. By clarifying circulation, enhancing social areas, and connecting indoor spaces with private outdoor zones, the project strengthens the architectural legacy of Agostinho Ferreira de Almeida while embracing modern functionality.

This renovation serves as a benchmark for urban residential refurbishments, demonstrating that thoughtful design can revitalize historic buildings without compromising their character.

All photographs are works of  Ivo Tavares Studio