The Town Hall Square and the surrounding area of the church are central to Ribeira de Pena, both geographically and culturally. These spaces serve as vital crossroads, shaping the dynamics and interactions of the town. The recent intervention by AXR seeks to redefine the square as the core of Ribeira de Pena.
The project establishes the Town Hall Square as a unifying element in the town’s urban fabric. It serves as a hub that encourages community interactions, leisure, and cultural activities. Through thoughtful design, the square integrates adjoining areas, promoting fluid movement, moments of pause, and a sense of openness.
Enhancing Functionality and Form
The intervention prioritizes simplicity and purpose. The central area is opened up, creating a flexible space where every addition is carefully considered. Trees provide shade and define seating areas, while elements such as the Church and a new fountain are framed to increase their presence. The fountain, in particular, resolves topographic challenges and introduces a dynamic element to the square.
Other features include an extended bench and wall that outline the square and emphasize the Town Hall’s prominence. A lettering installation, inspired by local linen motifs, pays homage to the region’s historical and cultural traditions, adding another layer of meaning to the space.
This approach reflects the architects’ commitment to preserving the continuity of existing design elements while thoughtfully introducing new features. By increasing historical and cultural assets, the square bridges the past and the present, offering a revitalized yet respectful reinterpretation of the town’s public space.
Reinventing the Topography
One of the most significant transformations is the reimagining of the square’s topography. Previously fragmented by staircases, the space is now a single, gently sloping plane. This design draws inspiration from old photographs of the Church, where the area functioned as a unified gathering space for outdoor masses and pilgrimages.
The removal of staircases allows the square to reclaim its historical simplicity while addressing modern accessibility requirements. Positioned on a hillside, the square becomes a central feature of the town’s public life.
Integrating Vegetation and Visual Harmony
Vegetation plays a key role in the design. A continuous cluster of trees begins in the nearby Coreto garden, extends through the boulevard, and culminates in the square. This approach creates a harmonious transition between spaces, while shaded areas improve the usability and comfort of the square for daily activities.
Visual harmony is achieved through strategic placement of trees and other vertical elements, reinforcing symmetry and creating focal points. Materials such as pavements and wall coverings are carefully standardized to ensure cohesion across the space.
Project name: Requalificação da Praça do Município de Ribeira de Pena
Architecture Office: AXR – Arquitetura e Design
Main Architect: André Xavier Rodrigues
Collaboration: João Ribeiro, Tatiana Campos
Location: Ribeira de Pena, Vila Real, Portugal
Year of conclusion : 2021
Total area: 3429,50 m²
Architectural photographer: Ivo Tavares Studio
