Multipurpose Welfare Center / Nursery Maria Helena Rufino Rua Dâmaso da Encarnação - architects Manuel Laginha and Rogerio Martin 1952/58

This beautiful building is designed by the architects Manuel Laginha and Rogerio Martins (from 1952-1958) as 'Centro de Assistência Social Polivalente' is mainly determined by the large building block facing the street, consisting of a fixed grid in a fixed measurement system.

The building looks like a blocks box, where pieces have been removed. In the resulting open space - an empty space over 2 floors - is marked by slender concrete columns, it seems as if the ramp is floating and the canopy is connected to the ceiling by two 'wires'.

The loggia-like outdoor space where the ramp lands is afterwards closed with window frames. As a result of which the subtile surface division with sun shade panels and the spatial play of open- and closed parts unfortunately has been lost.

The building stands tough like a beautiful horse with slender front legs. A beauty that despite all the less careful interventions, has survived in time.

Photographs: Jose Rosa Gonçalves, John Shepherd and Ana Ricardo Infante