PORTUGAL MODERN

1988 - 1991

Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro

Alcino Soutinho's Faculty of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern urban design with a prominent facade, landscaped lawn, and shaded areas. Photo by Ben
Alcino Soutinho's Faculty of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern urban design with a prominent facade, landscaped lawn, and shaded areas. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern facade with expansive glass panels, surrounded by a landscaped lawn and shaded areas on the academic campus. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with hardwood flooring, expansive glass walls, and a modern ceiling design. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with wood ceiling, brown flooring, and metal building materials. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with brickwork walls, wood-stained flooring, and metal ceiling elements. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with concrete and composite materials, featuring prominent stairs with a silver handrail and a brown wood-stained floor. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing brickwork walls, landscaped lawn, and modern building materials. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a brick and wood exterior with visible brickwork and hardwood elements. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a symmetrical design with a brown brick exterior, hardwood elements, and ample daylighting. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro with a modern design featuring bicycles parked in front, highlighting bicycle wheels, frames, and handlebars. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a clean, daylight-filled lobby with composite material flooring, wood-stained ceiling, and tiled surfaces. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing an interior with brick walls, wooden flooring, and a stained wood ceiling. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing brickwork, a courtyard, and daylighting elements on a campus setting. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a modern design with a lawn and artificial turf on the campus. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing a composite material facade with daylighting features, surrounded by a lawn and courtyard on the campus. Alcino Soutinho's Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering at the University of Aveiro showcasing brick and concrete walls with daylighting features and tiled flooring.
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Departamento de Engenharia Cerâmica e do Vidro da Universidade de Aveiro – Alcino Soutinho’s Architectural Vision

The Departamento de Engenharia Cerâmica e do Vidro (Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering) at the Universidade de Aveiro is one of the notable academic buildings designed by Alcino Soutinho. Completed in 1997, the building is part of a broader expansion of the university’s campus, demonstrating Soutinho’s commitment to integrating modern architecture into educational environments.

Architectural Concept and Design

Alcino Soutinho’s approach to the Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering is marked by a careful balance between functionality, materiality, and a deep understanding of academic spaces. The key elements of the design include:
• A Dialogue Between Function and Form
The building is designed to accommodate both research and teaching facilities, ensuring that classrooms, laboratories, and workspaces are efficiently connected. The modular layout provides flexibility, allowing for easy adaptation to new technological and academic needs over time.
• Materiality Inspired by Ceramics and Glass
Given the nature of the department’s studies, the building itself serves as a reflection of its discipline. Soutinho makes use of ceramic and glass elements in its composition, celebrating the materials that are at the core of the department’s research.
• Integration with the University Campus
The department is harmoniously integrated into the architectural language of the Universidade de Aveiro, which is known for its innovative and contemporary approach to academic spaces. Soutinho’s work on this building aligns with his design of the Department of Chemistry, creating a cohesive and interconnected campus.
• Spatial Organization and Natural Light
Large windows and skylights bring in natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination and creating an inviting atmosphere for learning and experimentation. The central courtyard acts as both a gathering space and a way to enhance ventilation and daylight distribution.

Architectural Significance

The Departamento de Engenharia Cerâmica e do Vidro stands as an example of Soutinho’s ability to translate the essence of a discipline into architectural form. His design is not merely functional but also acts as an educational tool, allowing students and faculty to experience the materials they study in a built environment.

Legacy and Recognition

Alcino Soutinho’s contribution to the Universidade de Aveiro campus, particularly with this department and the Department of Chemistry, reflects his dedication to creating inspiring academic environments. His work at the university remains a reference in Portuguese educational architecture, merging aesthetics, sustainability, and adaptability.

Through the Departamento de Engenharia Cerâmica e do Vidro, Soutinho reaffirms his architectural philosophy: a respect for context, an embrace of materiality, and a commitment to human-centered design.

Publications on Department of Ceramics and Glass Engineering, University of Aveiro by Alcino Soutinho

Universidade de Aveiro. 30 anos de arquitectura, University of Aveiro Thirty Years of Architecture, ISBN: 9789728650056 Book