The project to transform an old royal cellar into a residential space is a testament to the delicate balance between preservation and innovation. The architects, Manuel and Francisco Aires Mateus, approached the design with a deep respect for the existing structure’s beauty and proportions. Their vision was to integrate a modern domestic program without compromising the cellar’s unitary character.

The design cleverly compresses ancillary and service spaces to the periphery, allowing the main living areas to breathe within the open expanse of the cellar. Bedrooms, an office, and bathrooms are designed as floating volumes, creating a sense of levitation above the common space. This approach not only preserves the integrity of the original structure but also introduces a dynamic spatial experience.

A key aspect of the design philosophy is the seamless integration of old and new elements. The architects aimed to dissolve material boundaries, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between the historical and contemporary. As they stated, the goal was “to preserve the pre-existences and to add the new with a different condition […], then to equalize everything.”

The restored ceiling, retaining its original materiality, serves as a focal point, anchoring the space in its historical context while the new interventions float beneath it. This juxtaposition highlights the architects’ commitment to maintaining the cellar’s authenticity while introducing modern functionality.

The building’s interaction with its surroundings is subtle yet profound, as it respects the historical narrative of the site while offering a fresh perspective on residential architecture. The use of materials and spatial arrangements creates a dialogue between past and present, making the space both a tribute to its origins and a statement of contemporary design.