Crismina Fort Refurbishment by barbiniarquitectos

The Crismina Fort Refurbishment, designed by barbiniarquitectos, is a remarkable project that blends historical preservation with contemporary architectural intervention. Located in Cascais, Portugal, the 18th-century fortress was originally part of a defensive line built during the conflict between Portugal and Spain. Over time, exposure to wind erosion, coastal weather, and natural forces left the structure partially deteriorated, yet it retained its commanding presence over the Atlantic coastline.

The restoration project began with the consolidation and reinforcement of the original stone walls, which define the fort’s irregular polygonal shape. The architects then introduced a glass and stone single-story volume that respects the historic proportions while introducing a modern spatial syntax. The new building reaches only the maximum height of the existing walls, ensuring the fort’s role as a viewpoint and coastal landmark remains intact.

Designed as a multipurpose cultural and event space, the interior features a flexible open-plan layout, while the exterior is framed by three distinct courtyards. Each courtyard is oriented differently—south, east, and west—offering unique experiences of light, wind, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. These outdoor spaces create a dialogue between architecture and landscape, enhancing the visitor’s sense of place.

The fort is situated within an area of exceptional ecological and scenic value, shaped by rocky coves, sandy stretches, and rare coastal vegetation. The landscape design focused on preserving endemic plant species, such as Armeria pseudoarmeria and Armeria welwitschii, while recovering historic trails and pathways that connect the fort to its natural environment.

Through this careful balance of heritage conservation, ecological sensitivity, and modern design, barbiniarquitectos has transformed Crismina Fort into a cultural landmark that respects its past while embracing its future.

All Photographs are works of Fernando Guerra | FG+SG