The Banco Pinto & Sotto Mayor branch, now a Millennium bcp branch, stands as a testament to Álvaro Siza’s architectural ingenuity, nestled on a prominent corner in Oliveira de Azeméis. This building is a harmonious blend of distorted geometry and autonomous design, reflecting the surrounding urban tapestry, including a courthouse and a 17th-century house. Siza’s vision was to create a structure that not only complements but also enhances its environment. He skillfully aligned one of the building’s planes with the façade of the historic house, allowing it to bend and align with the street, a decision driven by his desire to preserve the light entering the adjacent courtyard.

The building’s entrance is strategically positioned at a tangent to the square, inviting visitors into a central lobby where the interplay of light and space is masterfully orchestrated. Inside, the building’s full breadth is revealed through a dynamic spatial experience. The triple-height interior facilitates a seamless transition from a lower level, bathed in natural light from a glass wall facing the street, to an upper level, gently illuminated by a skylight. This thoughtful design not only respects the building’s historical context but also creates a vibrant, light-filled environment that enhances the user experience.

Siza’s design philosophy emphasizes the integration of architecture with its surroundings, and this building is a prime example of that ethos. The use of light, space, and geometry not only respects the historical significance of the site but also elevates the building’s purpose as a modern banking facility.