Sétimo Ano de Praia Beach Support Facility by Lousinha Arquitectos

A Sustainable and Sculptural Landmark on Portugal’s Coast

Nestled along the windswept dunes of Praia da Barra in Ílhavo, the Sétimo Ano de Praia Beach Support Facility by Lousinha Arquitectos redefines the relationship between architecture and the coastal landscape. Designed as a fully serviced support hub for beachgoers, the project harmoniously integrates functionality, environmental sensitivity, and poetic geometry within the delicate ecosystem of Portugal’s Atlantic shoreline.

Complying with the Ovar–Marinha Grande Coastal-Zone Management Plan established in 2017, the new structure replaces a previous facility that was demolished to restore and protect the dune system. Repositioned east of the existing boardwalk, the project respects ecological constraints while providing a modern, climate-responsive public space for leisure and community use.

Circular Form and Environmental Harmony

The architecture’s defining gesture is its annular geometry—a circular form that embraces unity, protection, and spatial continuity. Oriented southward, the circular layout shields visitors from the strong northerly winds while framing open terraces that connect seamlessly to the beach.

Symbolically, the circle conveys harmony and timelessness, while practically, it allows for fluid circulation between interior and exterior spaces. The void at the center aligns with one of the dune’s natural high points, subtly merging the built form into its sandy surroundings and minimizing the structure’s visual impact.

Unlike conventional rectangular or L-shaped coastal buildings, this circular plan softens the dialogue between the natural and built landscape, creating a serene architectural expression that feels both grounded and light.

Structural Lightness and Local Inspiration

Drawing inspiration from the traditional timber palheiros—the stilted fishermen’s huts characteristic of the region—the facility adopts a lightweight, demountable timber system raised on piles. The elevated platform is supported by a reticulated frame of glulam beams and columns, ensuring both stability and minimal disturbance to the terrain.

To realize the precise circular geometry, the architects divided the structure into twenty-four equal segments, each defined by identical portal frames. This modular approach allowed for efficient prefabrication and rapid assembly, minimizing construction impact on the sensitive dune ecosystem.

All internal partitions and external cladding are dry-joint assemblies, avoiding the use of mortars. The outer shell combines thermally modified timber and glass, materials chosen for durability, low maintenance, and natural weathering over time. The roof—gently sloped at 5°—features timber sandwich panels waterproofed with a PVC membrane, framed by zinc and PVC profiles for longevity and refined detailing.

Passive Design and Coastal Resilience

Every design decision reinforces sustainability and environmental responsiveness. The glazed bays along the outer ring consist of three panels—two fixed and one vertically sliding sash—to promote natural cross-ventilation and daylighting.

This passive approach extends throughout the facility, from the public service areas to private zones such as the kitchen, staff facilities, storage rooms, restrooms, and first-aid post. The latter also benefits from overhead natural lighting, reducing energy dependence and enhancing comfort.

On the exterior, a herringbone timber weave screens the terrace, providing shade and privacy while continuing seamlessly across the interior ceiling. The texture and rhythm of this latticework evoke both craftsmanship and the fluidity of ocean waves.

Reconstructing the Landscape

The project’s sensitivity extends beyond architecture to include landscape rehabilitation. To ensure accessible pathways and structural stability, the architects regraded the dune system, redistributing sand westward to reinforce the primary dune. Rather than elevating the dune, widening it increased its resistance to erosion and storm surges while preserving coastal views.

This intervention exemplifies a holistic approach to coastal architecture—one that integrates environmental restoration, sustainable construction, and public engagement within a cohesive architectural vision.

A Poetic Dialogue Between Land, Sea, and Structure

The Sétimo Ano de Praia Beach Support Facility stands as a modest yet meaningful intervention—a circular timber structure that celebrates the dialogue between nature, geometry, and community. By merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary ecological awareness, Lousinha Arquitectos has crafted a landmark of sustainable coastal design, offering a calm, resilient, and visually elegant space for leisure by the sea.

All photographs are works of Tiago Casanova