The location outskirts of Porto, Freixo quarter. The former industrial area has
become heterogeneous due to urbanisation. Industrial, cultural and residential
buildings surround the riverside area. Due to urbanisation the downtown area
expands to the periphery, new urban centres emerge. My diploma project
connects into this rehabilitation movement.

The site is one of the largest remaining brownfield sites of Porto, along the
Duoro river. The site is sliced in two by a roadway, which connects the historic
centre to the upcoming outskirts of Porto. The site is currently lays on an
undeveloped land, with unique trees on the riverside front. Due to the Duoro’s
water level fluctuations the riverside is bordered by a 4meter height supporting
wall. The site is surrounded by the Duoro’s two tributary stream and new
Marina Port built in 2000. Across the road abandoned industrial buildings and
small workshops are located.

Centro Nautico is continuation of university studio my studies in Porto. The
bulk program have two main functionality, cultural and sport functions both
serving as a Rowing Cultural centre. Creating new public spaces around the
building and keeping proximity to water features were set as the main criteria.
The building is organised parallel to the Rio Tonto, one of the tributary stream
of Duoro. The linear design serves as an organising principle on the chaotic
masterplan.

The building is surrounded by a doubled supporting wall system. The height of
the walls are consequences of the water safety level and current street level.
The lower tract serves the proximity to the water for the athletes, creates
open public spaces for the cultural segment, furthermore it connects the new
Museum to the adjacent Print Museum. Based on the main arrival directions
further public spaces are created: green parking area on the northern border
and a huge welcoming ramp from the public transport stops.

The inner composition of building is shaped by arrival directions. The
intersecting road and the Print Museum promenade breaks the mass, as well
determines the distribution of program within. The complex features the
cultural program on the city’s side, while the sports-oriented spaces are
designed along the waterfront.

Centro Nautico is to recall the area’s industriality in it’s shaping and structure.
Throughout the buildings full lengths constructed with the steel truss which
longitudinally is cloaked with polycarbonate. The building’s cross-sections
towards the city and river opens with glass surfaces, while the intersecting
towards the road closes with metal walls. The parallel service and public
corridor within the building incorporate the multidisciplinary functions.