The Thalia Theatre, nestled within the historic estate once owned by Joaquim Pedro Quintela, Count Farrobo, stands as a testament to architectural resilience and innovation. Reimagined by Gonçalo Byrne in collaboration with Patrícia Barbas and Diogo Seixas Lopes, the theatre’s rehabilitation and expansion project sought to honor its storied past while infusing it with contemporary functionality.

Byrne’s vision was to transform the theatre into a versatile space that could host conferences, meetings, and receptions, while also accommodating events beyond the ministry’s scope. The design philosophy centered on preserving the theatre’s ruinous beauty, described by Byrne as possessing “enormous plastic quality.” This approach allowed the structure to retain its historical essence while embracing modern utility.

A key element of the redesign was the lighting of the main space, inspired by Louis Kahn’s insight that even the darkest room requires a “crack of light.” This philosophy guided the integration of natural and artificial lighting, creating a dynamic interplay of shadows and illumination that enhances the theatre’s atmospheric depth.

The architectural design harmonizes with its surroundings, incorporating materials that reflect the estate’s historical context. The addition of a support area and cafeteria complements the theatre’s function, providing necessary amenities without detracting from its aesthetic integrity. The result is a multipurpose venue that not only serves the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education but also stands as a cultural beacon within Lisbon’s architectural landscape.