Urban House Renovation: Transforming House No. 11 – Santa Isabel by Camarim Arquitectos

House No. 11 – Santa Isabel represents a profound example of urban house renovation in the historical context of Lisbon, Portugal. Designed by Camarim Arquitectos, this project showcases how an early 20th-century residential building can be transformed into a contemporary dwelling while respecting its historical essence.

Architectural Vision and Design Strategy

Historical Context and Design Response

Located between an industrial school and a cemetery, House No. 11 – Santa Isabel holds a unique place in Lisbon's urban fabric. The renovation project began with the ambitious aim of converting the aging structure into a modern residence that responds to its complex surroundings. The architects sought to preserve the refined front façade while completely reimagining the interior and other façades to suit modern living standards.

Strategic Demolition and Reconstruction

The renovation involved the strategic demolition of the building’s interior, east, and rear façades. Starting from the preserved front façade, the architects implemented a compositional program that redefined the building's structure—bending edges and transforming architectural elements in a process described as chronological movement.

Key Architectural Features

Integration with the Environment

Each design decision was made to react to and integrate with the immediate surroundings—whether it be the widened street, the verdant cemetery, or the distant river views. This integration is achieved through the dynamic configuration of spaces around and through the house, culminating in a design that speaks both to the building’s past and its present context.

Atrium and Interior Spaces

At the heart of House No. 11 is an atrium that changes shape as it ascends, organizing the interior space and bringing natural light deep into the residence. This central feature helps to orient the living spaces and provides a visual and spatial breath to the dense urban setting.

Material and Decorative Choices

Facade and Material Dynamics

The rear façade, now fully reimagined, expresses the internal changes most vividly, using materials that reflect both the historical context and modern architectural trends. The use of traditional materials like stone and wood in conjunction with modern glass and metal highlights the dialogue between old and new.

Interior Design and Custom Elements

Inside, the design incorporates custom-built elements that enhance functionality while offering aesthetic continuity with the building's historical character. From bespoke cabinetry in the kitchen to the meticulously designed bedrooms, every detail contributes to a coherent whole that respects the building's original character while providing contemporary comfort.

A Benchmark in Urban Renovation

House No. 11 – Santa Isabel by Camarim Arquitectos stands as a benchmark in urban house renovation. It demonstrates how architectural creativity and respect for historical contexts can coalesce into a home that is both uniquely Lisbon and universally modern. This project not only revitalizes a historical structure but also contributes to the ongoing narrative of its urban landscape, offering valuable insights into the possibilities of urban architectural transformation.

All photographs are work of Nelson Garrido