PORTUGAL MODERN

1974 - 1979

Rua Associação Moradores de São Vítor 80, 4000-008 Porto

Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete apartment complex with composite material elements, painted surfaces, and urban design features optimized for daylighting. Photo by Ben
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete apartment complex with composite material elements, painted surfaces, and urban design features optimized for daylighting. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete apartment complex with painted plaster walls, balconies, integrated houseplants, and a central courtyard designed for optimal daylighting in an urban setting. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete structure with composite material elements and strategic daylighting features. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete and composite material structure with grey walls, sloped stairs, and graffiti-painted surfaces. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a daytime view of concrete and composite material walls with minimalist architectural design. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a cobblestone street and sidewalk in a shaded suburban neighborhood with concrete residential buildings lining the alley. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a concrete apartment complex with painted composite materials and urban design elements in a human settlement. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a residential neighborhood with concrete walls, composite materials, iron doors, and green elements integrated into the architecture. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor - SAAL showcasing a residential area with concrete and brick walls, sloped urban design, and composite materials in a suburban human settlement.
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Álvaro Siza’s project for the São Victor neighbourhood in Porto is a testament to his innovative approach to social housing, blending sensitivity to historical context with modern architectural principles. Siza envisioned a harmonious integration of new and rehabilitated structures within the existing urban fabric, respecting the long and narrow plots characteristic of the “ilhas” or “islands.” His design philosophy emphasized the importance of community and continuity, aiming to preserve the social dynamics of the area while addressing urgent housing needs.

The project was conceived to provide dignified living conditions for 630 families, with a focus on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Siza’s approach was not merely about constructing new buildings but about revitalizing the community’s spirit. He sought to maintain the essence of the historic centre by incorporating elements of the existing architecture, such as the use of traditional materials and forms, while introducing modern design elements that enhanced functionality and comfort.

Siza’s design for the new estate included thoughtful spatial arrangements that encouraged interaction among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The interplay of light and shadow, achieved through carefully positioned windows and open spaces, created a dynamic living environment that responded to the natural surroundings.

Despite the project’s partial realization, with only a fraction of the planned houses completed, Siza’s work in São Victor left a lasting impact on the discourse of social housing. His commitment to integrating architecture with its social context and his ability to adapt to the constraints of the site demonstrated a profound respect for the existing community and its history. This project not only influenced future social housing developments in Portugal but also garnered international attention, highlighting Siza’s ability to blend tradition with innovation in a way that resonates with both residents and the broader architectural community.

Publications on Habitação Social Bairro São Víctor – SAAL by Álvaro Siza Vieira

Guia de Arquitetura Álvaro Siza Projetos Construídos Portugal, Architectural Guide Álvaro Siza Built Projects Portugal, ISBN: 9789899846289 Book