In the heart of Porto, a seemingly ordinary ground floor shop in a 1970s housing block has been given a remarkable transformation by the talented architects at Fala Atelier. What was once a mundane space now breathes with new life as it houses a unique two-person apartment.
The layout may be ambiguous, but the purpose is clear. Waves of glass brick and clouds of metal mesh intertwine, creating a captivating visual spectacle that redefines the concept of domestic living.
As you step inside, you’ll notice two gracefully curved walls that elegantly separate private and public areas across both levels. These walls guide you along a longitudinal axis, drawing your attention to the mesmerizing metallic masks that emphasize its importance.
The back facade is a stunning composition of glass, mirror, and intricate metallic cutouts, adorned with steady patterns and delicate handrails. On the other hand, the front facade is a dreamy haze of misty clouds, adding an air of mystery to the space.
Fala Atelier‘s choice of materials breaks free from traditional boundaries, blurring the lines between architecture and art. Vast surfaces of glass bricks, tiles, and soothing light blue tones dominate the space, occasionally interrupted by playful dots of marble, elegant lines of wood, and bold red accents. The architects draw inspiration from the likes of Ito and Hasegawa, incorporating elements of erotic transparency and experimental layering to create a truly spectacular project.
In the hands of Fala Atelier, this once unremarkable shop has become a stage for daily life. Dwelling here is no longer a passive experience; it is a performance. The user becomes both actor and spectator, engaging with the space and its routines in a way that is both captivating and thought-provoking. This project is a testament to the power of architecture to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.