PORTUGAL MODERN

1957 - 1965

58W7+V7 Leça da Palmeira

Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure integrated with landscaped garden elements, shaded walkways, and surrounding woody plants including branches and trunks under natural sunlight. Photo by Ben
Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure integrated with landscaped garden elements, shaded walkways, and surrounding woody plants including branches and trunks under natural sunlight. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with plastered walls, composite materials, and natural twig shadows creating a shaded, textured façade. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with plastered walls, integrated stairs, and natural daylighting casting shadows on composite material surfaces. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with plastered walls, composite material stairs, and a walkway illuminated by natural daylight creating dynamic shadows. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with a silver commemorative plaque and integrated font elements. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with plaster finishes, composite materials, and strategic daylighting creating dynamic shadows. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with composite material elements, surrounded by landscaped grass and artificial turf under natural daylight and shade. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with a composite material pool, surrounded by landscaped lawn and shaded areas, emphasizing daylighting and shadow play. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure integrated with landscaped grass lawns and shaded garden areas. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure integrated with landscaped grass and garden areas, featuring shaded outdoor spaces and a composite material pool deck. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing minimalist concrete siding, integrated daylighting, and clean geometric lines emphasizing modernist design principles. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist design with polished hardwood flooring, wooden doors, and natural wood finishes highlighting the warm, varnished planks and subtle household hardware. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with plaster walls, wooden stairs and handrails, and natural daylighting highlighting the textured building materials. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing minimalist concrete walls, plaster finishes, composite materials, integrated stairs, and strategic daylighting creating shaded architectural spaces. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist swimming pool with a reflective water surface, composite material edges, and a tranquil pond-like design. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing minimalist concrete walls, plaster finishes, and a shaded driveway emphasizing daylighting and composite materials. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with integrated landscaping, artificial turf, and shaded garden areas within a spacious land lot. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist concrete structure with composite materials, plaster finishes, integrated shading elements, and landscaped lawn surroundings. Álvaro Siza Vieira’s Piscina da Quinta da Conceição showcasing a minimalist design with wood-stained hardwood planks, metal and iron fencing, and natural daylighting highlighting the outdoor pool area.
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The swimming pool at Quinta da Conceição, designed by Álvaro Siza, is a masterful example of how architecture can harmonize with its natural surroundings. Siza’s vision was to create a space that seamlessly integrates with the landscape, enhancing the natural beauty of the site rather than imposing upon it. The pool is ingeniously situated at the highest point of the former farm, utilizing an old irrigation tank as its foundation. This choice not only respects the site’s history but also offers stunning panoramic views.

Siza’s design philosophy emphasizes simplicity and functionality, which is evident in the pool’s clean lines and minimalist aesthetic. The series of platforms surrounding the pool are supported by long retaining walls that follow the natural contours of the land, creating a dynamic interplay between built and natural environments. This approach allows the pool to appear as if it is part of the landscape itself, rather than an addition to it.

The materials used in the construction, primarily concrete and stone, were chosen for their durability and ability to blend with the natural surroundings. Siza’s attention to detail is apparent in the way these materials are used to create a sense of continuity and cohesion throughout the space.

Siza once remarked on his design choices, stating, “Architecture must be rooted in the place and its history, yet it should also be a reflection of the present and a vision for the future.” This philosophy is clearly reflected in the pool’s design, which respects the site’s past while offering a modern, functional space for public enjoyment.

The spatial experience of the pool is both intimate and expansive, with the surrounding platforms providing areas for relaxation and contemplation. The interaction between light, water, and the surrounding landscape creates a serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the setting.

Publications on Piscina da Quinta da Conceição by Álvaro Siza Vieira

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