Ilhavo City Library / ARX Portugal

Architects: ARX PORTUGAL
Area: 3,200 m²
Year: 2005
Photography: Fernando Guerra / FG+SG
Project Team: José Mateus, Nuno Mateus
City: Ilhavo
Country: Portugal

Ílhavo City Library, designed by ARX Portugal and completed in 2005, integrates modern architecture with the historical remains of the Manor Visconde de Almeida. Located on the outskirts of Ílhavo, the project combines urban intervention with heritage preservation, offering three distinct components: the Library, Chapel, and Youth Forum. The Chapel was restored and reopened for religious services, with contemporary furnishings and artwork that reinterpret its historical essence, blending the past with the present.

The library is situated within the remnants of the 17th-18th century manor, where only the main facade and chapel survived in a deteriorated state. Recognized for their architectural significance, these elements were carefully preserved and incorporated into the new design. The project highlights a thoughtful approach to restoration, ensuring the historical features coexist with the modern elements of the building.

Located on the outskirts of Ílhavo in an underdeveloped area, the project aimed to not only create a library but also address the disjointed urban context. The design includes three distinct parts: the Library, Chapel, and Youth Forum.

The manor’s remaining facade was used as an anchor for administrative spaces, maintaining a visual connection to the past while clearly distinguishing the new additions.

The reading rooms and Youth Forum extend beyond the manor’s footprint, forming a dialogue with the surrounding area and reinforcing the library’s public role.

The chapel, although stripped of its original decorative element, was restored to preserve its historical essence. Contemporary furniture and altar panels by Pedro Calapez reimagine the original polychrome decor, and the chapel has been reopened for religious services.