Renovating the Historic House in Belém by Filipe Borges de Macedo
A modern architectural intervention within Lisbon's historic 1938 Casas Económicas neighbourhood.
1Historic Context of Belém
The project is situated in the Casas Económicas das Terras do Forno neighbourhood, which was originally inaugurated in 1938. Designed by architect Raul Lino in 1933, the area consists of 204 traditionally styled houses. These units were initially intended for civil and military employees, as well as members of the National Trade Unions.
2Architectural Scope and Scale
Led by Filipe Borges de Macedo, the renovation project covers a total area of 150 square metres. The design team included Aline Gonçalves, Luís Filipe Pinto, and Tomás Nunes. Technical oversight was provided by engineers Joaquim Jerónimo and João Garvão Sinfrónio, ensuring the structural integrity of the historic residential building throughout the process.
3Material Selection and Suppliers
The renovation incorporated specific products from several manufacturers to meet modern standards. Key suppliers included Efapel, JNF, and MOSO Bamboo. Additionally, the project utilized materials from Projecto Mosaico, Sanitana, and Sapa. These selections reflect a balance between maintaining the traditional aesthetic and upgrading the dwelling with contemporary, durable building components and finishes.
4Project Execution and Contractors
The construction phase was managed by the general contractor Velho Toque Lda, working under the Borges de Macedo Arquitectura office. Completed in 2026, the project required precise coordination between the design team and the technical engineers to respect the original 1930s architectural language while modernizing the interior spaces for current residential use.
5Preservation vs Modernization
The intervention highlights the challenge of adapting 1930s low-cost housing for contemporary living standards. By retaining the traditional design elements established by Raul Lino, the architects preserved the cultural identity of the Belém neighbourhood. This approach demonstrates how historic residential structures can be successfully updated without losing their original architectural character and historical significance.
6Documentation and Visual Record
The project was officially documented through professional photography by Nuno Almendra, capturing the final state of the residence following the 2026 completion. These visual records serve as a critical reference for the architectural transformation, illustrating the specific material applications and spatial modifications implemented by the Borges de Macedo team within the historic site.
7Technical Team Collaboration
The collaboration between the design team and the engineering firm was essential for navigating the constraints of the existing structure. By integrating modern electrical and plumbing solutions from suppliers like Efapel and Sanitana, the team ensured the house meets current safety and efficiency requirements while adhering to the strict guidelines of the historic district.
8Impact on Urban Heritage
This project underscores the ongoing relevance of mid-20th-century social housing in Lisbon. By revitalizing a unit within the Casas Económicas neighbourhood, the architects contribute to the longevity of the city's urban fabric. The work serves as a case study for future renovations of similar historic residential clusters across the Portuguese capital region.