School 36 Lisbon: Montessori-Inspired Educational Architecture by José Adrião Arquitetos

School 36, located in Lisboa, Portugal, stands as a remarkable example of educational architecture integrating modern pedagogy with heritage preservation. Originally designed in 1972 by Raul Ceregeiro and executed by Fernando Gomes da Silva, the school’s construction was interrupted in 1975, resumed in 1982, and officially inaugurated in 1984. In 2019, José Adrião Arquitetos undertook a comprehensive renovation and extension, enhancing its functionality while maintaining its architectural and educational integrity.

The school spans 9,730 m², serving both elementary and middle school students. Its design closely follows the Montessori Method, emphasizing child independence, self-directed learning, and respect for natural cognitive, social, and physical development. Drawing inspiration from educational architecture in the United Kingdom and Sweden, the building features open, interconnected spaces that encourage interaction and flexibility, while classrooms maintain direct visual and physical connections to the exterior, reinforcing a sense of openness and connection to nature.

The architecture of School 36 holds heritage significance for its coherent translation of Montessori principles into spatial design. Corridors and classroom walls do not reach the ceiling, allowing for natural ventilation and visual continuity, though this openness initially presented acoustic challenges. To address these, José Adrião Arquitetos strategically added three new programmatic areas: a Gym, a Cafeteria/Kitchen, and an Exterior Covered Recreation Area. These additions solved functional and acoustic issues while preserving the original spatial intent.

The renovation honors the school’s original educational vision, maintaining its light-filled, permeable environments, while improving comfort and usability for students and staff. The project demonstrates how architectural interventions can respect historical context, enhance learning environments, and integrate modern educational needs without compromising the building’s identity.

All photographs are works of  Nuno Almendra