1818URCAR - Rehabilitation of the Public Space of Avenida Carvalho Araújo

THE RETURN OF HERITAGE This site evolved from the rural Rossio of Vila Velha into a landscaped avenue over 600 years. In the 20th century, Avenida Carvalho Araújo established a strong urban image, symbolizing the city’s status while hiding its rich multifunctional past. Today, the design emphasizes the face-to-face relationship between the Convent of S. Domingos and the Palácio dos Marqueses de Vila Real, creating a dry square that includes Largo do Pelourinho.

A MOUNTAIN SQUARE IN AN EXTREME CLIMATE The new public space design highlights the sloping topography and natural cycles. To the south, the early 20th-century Jardim das Camélias, and to the north, a dense woodland, contrast the square’s aridity with shaded, inviting gardens. The high plateau in front of the Tribunal building is restored. DISCIPLINED VEHICULAR TRAFFIC A single two-way street runs along the west side, near the Post Office, Convent, and Hospital da Luz. CONTEMPORARY AVENUE Iconic landmarks are emphasized: Pelourinho, Metal Fountain, Carvalho Araújo Statue, Luís de Camões Memorial, an Araucaria tree-sculpture, and a long stone bench in the south garden. The space supports seasonal uses: spring flowers, summer street gastronomy, autumn Gingko Biloba celebrations, and winter Christmas concerts.

THE STARRY SKY, ONCE AGAIN The lighting system consists of LED columns along the vehicular route, at 4 and 8 meters high, illuminating the west and east areas. In the zones near the gardens and Largo do Pelourinho, the luminaires include wall-mounted arms. The exclusive access to the hospital features ground-level lighting. Lighting is managed for energy efficiency and aesthetic intensity, preserving the view of the sparkling sky. A COMFORTABLE GROUND Pavements of various finishes and sizes are adapted for pedestrian or vehicular use, always using split, non-polished stone to ensure safety. The central square has a granite slab pavement with a stone water channel as its geometric axis. The entire area is a 30 km/h zone with no traffic signage. Private properties are encouraged to carefully design lettering and commercial signage to reduce visual pollution.