The new aquatic center, public and residential complex master plan in Sacavém proposes a coherent, gradual connection with the EXPO 98’ site and closes the area bordered by Trancão and Tejo rivers in a nature–sensitive way. The main idea of the concept is to make a volumetric play of two different levels with the help of two elevated bridges/ axes. The first one connects Bobadela with the EXPO 98’ site and the second one – a railway station, Forte de Sacavém and the Sacavém Ceramic Museum with a vertical waypoint structure near the Tejo river. While the proposed elevated bridges focus mainly on pedestrian and cyclist movement, the ground level is left for nature to reclaim its land. Moreover, with the suggestion of raising the whole complex off the ground, future floods (of more than 4.5 m from the river) of Trancão river may prevent dramatic consequences.

The master plan suggests finishing the residential block next to Via do Oriente with the proposal of three six story and four 4 story residential buildings. With parking space and commerce left for the ground floor, the public space is elevated, connecting to the pedestrian axis. The previously mentioned bridge connects the railway station with a waypoint structure (which also acts as a vertical connection for two sides of the bridge). Continuing forwards the Tejo river more residential buildings (four 4 story buildings), two 6 story public buildings (serving a function of commerce and administration) and another waypoint structure ending the axis are proposed. The aquatic center is located at the meeting point of two main axes of the master plan. Its architectural concept creates a connection of two elevated axes and the Tejo river through its spatial articulation. Moreover, two river pools are suggested, forming a “gate” where the two rivers meet.

Type: mixed-use; recreational 

Area: 290 000 m²

Year: 2022

Location: Lisbon, Portugal