Largo do Rossio is a unique space in Aveiro. Simultaneously central and peripheral, the Rossio is, at the same time an urban space, where everyday work and leisure moments happen; and a contemplative space, where the city ends and the estuary becomes the background.
The new square is the empty space that the city needs.
The square level is elevated 1m in relation to its surroundings, emphasizing its stage character. The void is its main quality: a flexible and infrastructured space, capable of adapting to the events and activities that might take place in Aveiro, changing through the day and the seasons.
On the west side, the square goes down to the waterway, creating a contemplative space in direct contact with the water.
The Rossio and the Central Canal become one single space: a stage for the city of Aveiro.
program: renovation of Largo do Rossio architecture: João Fagulha, Raquel Oliveira landscape architecture: Oficina dos Jardins – Inês Ferrão e Sónia Caldeira structural engineering: PRPC Engenheiros – João Paulo Cardoso client: Aveiro Municipality area: 25.326 m2 budget: 6.866.600€ location: Aveiro, Portugal year: 2017 status: competition, honourable mention