Adaptive reuse creates new town hall in Trofa, Portugal

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South of the town centre of Trofa, Portugal, a former grain processing plant belonging to Indústria Alimentar Trofense has been converted into the new town hall, designed by NOARQ architects. Part of the existing building was integrated into the assertive, linear volume of the new building. The project stands out for its clearly structured floor plans and powerful material contrasts.

Revitalisation as a catalyst for urban regeneration

The long, narrow plot of land is located away from the city centre, alongside a disused railway line. With a size of 6,200 square metres, it was suitable for the planned space-intensive use by the city administration. In addition, the revitalisation of the dilapidated existing building was to serve as a catalyst for the regeneration of the surrounding urban area, which has a heterogeneous character and low building density.

Restoration and extension of existing buildings

The design concept envisages the restoration and extension of the now derelict building. However, not all parts of it were architecturally or structurally worth preserving. Due to vacancy and a lack of maintenance, the walls with their old lime plaster were in a dilapidated state. Firstly, the main building, which offered potential for a new use with its arched windows and open timber roof structure, was freed from low extensions and outbuildings. The volume was reduced and simplified and a significant extension was necessary.

A playful juxtaposition of opposites

The new, rectangular building sections with asymmetrical openings contrast with the symmetry and uniformity of the punctuated facade of the original building with its regularly spaced, round arched windows. The contrast between old and new is also evident in the materials chosen. While the original building’s facade has been finished with a fine-grained, grey render and a glazed top coat, the new building volumes present themselves in a bold envelope of dark bricks.

Brightness and warm wood interiors

The interior of the building is dominated by light-coloured wood and smooth, exposed concrete. While the exterior is characterised by its dark, almost monolithic, almost achromatic restraint and heaviness, the interior of the building is generously bright and warm.

[ark] magazine - the StoJournal for Architects

This story appeared in [ark] magazine No.68. The planning and execution trades are responsible for ensuring compliance with local standards and regulations, as well as realising and warranting of the architectural details and solutions included in this case study. Find more project case studies like this at ark.sto.com