DESIGN COMPETITION FOR THE PROJECT OF THE AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF PAREDES, INCUBATOR FOR FURNITURE DESIGN AND DECORATIVE ARTS AND CREATIVE WORKSHOPS

The project was developed as part of a public competition promoted by the Agricultural Cooperative of the Municipality of Paredes and the Order of Architects, with the aim of building the Cooperative's new facilities, a Design Incubator and Creative Residences/Offices.

Architecturally, a fluid relationship is proposed between the land and Alameda Dr. José Cabral, through two independent volumes along Rua da GNR and Rua Infante D. Henrique. The concept allows for the extension of the urban space into the interior - Mercado da Terra - linking Alameda Dr. José Cabral to Rua D. Afonso Henriques, overcoming the unevenness of the terrain and promoting direct relations with the adjacent streets.

The buildings articulate with their surroundings, with the market's visitable roof standing out, made up of sloping or vegetated platforms. This semi-public space, inspired by traditional markets, improves thermal comfort, reduces heat emissions and promotes biodiversity.

The Mercado da Terra plays a central role, functioning as an extension of Alameda Dr. José Cabral and establishing different dynamics of use with the Cooperative, the Incubator and the Creative Residences/Offices. Directly linked to this space are the restaurant and the market itself.

The project aims to create a social and collaborative environment, promoting informal meetings and interactions, reflecting a contemporary vision of the professional activities required.