The Collective Housing project in Travessa das Dores, designed by Gonçalo Byrne, is a striking example of innovative urban rehabilitation. The building’s design is a response to the steep terrain of the street, where Byrne’s architectural vision sought to harmonize with the existing urban fabric while introducing a dynamic new form. Instead of a continuous structure, Byrne opted for a design where the façade is punctuated by three gaps, creating four distinct yet interconnected blocks. This approach not only adapts to the sloping landscape but also enhances visual permeability, offering glimpses into the backyard and fostering a sense of openness.

Byrne’s design philosophy emphasizes the integration of architecture with its environment, and this project exemplifies that ethos. The staggered blocks create a rhythm that mirrors the natural topography, while the gaps in the façade invite light and air into the interior spaces, enhancing the living experience. The building’s materials were chosen to complement the surrounding urban context, ensuring that the new structure feels like a natural extension of the neighborhood.

The purpose of the building is to provide modern, comfortable housing while contributing to the revitalization of the area. Byrne’s design not only meets these functional needs but also elevates the aesthetic quality of the street, offering residents and passersby a visually engaging experience. As Byrne himself might suggest, the project is a dialogue between the built environment and the natural landscape, where architecture becomes a mediator that respects and enhances both.