House No. 7 in Avenidas Novas: A Timeless Evolution by Camarim Arquitectos

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Avenidas Novas in Lisbon, Portugal, House No. 7 represents a seamless fusion of history, design, and innovation. Designed by Camarim Arquitectos, this project embodies the architectural evolution of a family home spanning three generations. With its Art Deco origins, significant 1980s transformation, and a modern reinterpretation, the house tells a compelling story of time, heritage, and urban integration.

A Legacy of Three Generations

House No. 7 is a testament to familial heritage, standing as a reflection of Lisbon's urban fabric. Built in the 1930s and transformed in the 1980s, the house has now entered its third iteration with a design that bridges its historic roots and contemporary needs. Located at the western edge of Avenidas Novas, it sits amid a grid of dense urban blocks, juxtaposed against historical landmarks like the nearby Palácio Marquês de Sá da Bandeira.

Preserving History Through Design

Camarim Arquitectos approached the project with a deep respect for the house's historical layers. The original construction from the 1930s was retained, while its height was raised to align with the cornice of the adjacent building. During the design process, the discovery of Art Deco features on the façade inspired the architects to highlight the house's three distinct eras—1930, 1980, and 2020—through a coherent compositional structure.

The solution drew inspiration from urban palaces in Florence, where successive generations expanded structures with material and technical progressions. This concept was applied to House No. 7, creating a harmonious dialogue between the robust base of the original structure and the more delicate extensions above.

A Play of Lines and Light

By superimposing the 1930s and 1980s façades, the architects developed regulating lines that unify the building's elements. These lines contour the structure, defining the gable, back façade, garden, and studio. The design's horizontal continuity allows the upper floors to retreat, creating a sense of openness that connects the garden to the sun and sky.

The interaction between light and form is further emphasized through the covered outdoor entrance, which frames a view of the garden. This space sets the tone for the house's interior, where light and shadow play across the carefully crafted surfaces.

Interior Design: A Dialogue Across Time

The interior of House No. 7 is a spatial journey that unfolds gradually. The staircase, a central design feature, develops organically, filling the space with a sense of movement and continuity. This design element reflects the architects' exploration of multiple temporalities, creating a language where past and present coexist.

Each element within the house has been carefully considered to balance functionality with aesthetics. The materials, textures, and forms create a cohesive environment that honors the house's legacy while embracing modern living.

The Garden as a Connecting Element

The garden plays a pivotal role in the design of House No. 7, serving as a bridge between the house and its urban context. The architects ensured that the outdoor spaces are integral to the home's character, offering a sanctuary of greenery and light within the dense city grid.

A Testament to Architectural Evolution

House No. 7 in Avenidas Novas stands as a remarkable example of how architecture can preserve history while adapting to contemporary needs. Camarim Arquitectos have successfully redefined this family home, creating a structure that is both a tribute to its past and a beacon for its future. By weaving together three distinct eras of design, they have crafted a timeless masterpiece that resonates with its surroundings and inhabitants alike.

All Photographs are works of Nelson Garrido