This landscape architecture project is part of a municipal development combining housing, retail, and community facilities, located on Avenida Carlos Pinhão in Bairro do Armador, Marvila, Lisbon.
The U-shaped building opens toward the Chelas Valley and includes a deliberate break in its form aligned with Avenida Vergílio Ferreira. This break is not only a formal gesture but also creates an opening for a plaza that provides access to the residential entrances and connects to the lower level of Avenida Carlos Pinhão.
The design aims to create a smooth, natural transition between the street and the garden square. Inspired by traditional Lisbon layouts, it combines a gentle slope and broad steps shaded by trees, encouraging both movement and lingering. A central open area is framed by planted beds with a continuous bench along their edges. A network of paths connect the different building entrances and the distribution gallery. Diagonal circulation is prioritized, facilitating movement across the space and connecting it to Avenida Carlos Pinhão through a staircase integrated into the accessible route. Universal access is ensured by a gently inclined plane that accommodates pedestrians and, when necessary, restricted vehicle access for maintenance or emergency purposes.
Beyond its role as a circulation space, the Garden Square also functions as a public gathering area. Oriented toward the valley, it offers pleasant views, shelter from prevailing winds, and excellent sun exposure. The basalt paving absorbs some rainwater, helping —together with the vegetation— to regulate temperature and enhance comfort.
On the northern edge, a stepped seating area addresses the change in level while creating a place to rest along the pedestrian route.
Descending the stairs that link the plaza to Avenida Carlos Pinhão on the southern side, one reaches an expanded sidewalk area that provides access to the service floors. Taking advantage of the natural slope along the building, the design proposes a circulation system with a level entrance on one side and a stepped terrace on the other—a typological mirror of the northern access. The difference in height also helps shield this public space from the heavy traffic along Avenida Carlos Pinhão.
