
The BW II Industrial Building, located in Lanheses, Viana do Castelo, is a thoughtful exploration of form and function within industrial architecture. Designed by Multiprojectus, the project comprises two distinct yet interconnected volumes. The first is a large industrial space dedicated to warehousing, technical activities, and shipping operations, complete with a protective canopy. The second volume houses the administrative and social areas across two floors, shaping the main elevation and providing a more refined architectural presence.

Cohesive Design Through a Singular Material
The project places a clear focus on the administrative and social block, prioritizing cohesion and continuity in design. A single cladding material, prefabricated concrete panels, serves as the defining element of the facade. The facade is created through a rhythmic pattern of vertical slats embedded into the panels.
To prevent monotony across the expansive facade, the design strategically integrates outdoor patios that excavate voids into the volume. These openings deconstruct the building’s linear form, introducing a play between solid and empty spaces. This approach not only softens the building’s visual impact but also improves the interior environment. Natural light filters through these openings, casting shifting patterns throughout the day.

A Grand Entrance and Suspended Staircase
The main entrance to the building is a key architectural feature. Visitors are welcomed into a foyer defined by its double-height ceiling and centerpiece, a suspended staircase. This staircase appears to float within the space, detached from the walls and ceiling slab. It begins with a sculptural concrete base that rises from the floor to form the first three steps.

Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics
The integration of voids and patios within the administrative block serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. These open-air spaces break up the volume, introducing flexibility to the interior layout while providing moments of visual relief. The balance of solid and open spaces improves the movement of natural light, creating an ever-changing ambiance throughout the day.

While the administrative block takes center stage, the industrial section complements it through simplicity and restraint. Its clean facade maintains consistency with the larger complex, ensuring a cohesive identity. The shipping area, protected by a practical canopy, integrates into the design while addressing the operational demands of the facility. The result is a structure where technical efficiency and architectural refinement coexist in harmony.

Project name: BW II – Edifício Industrial em Viana do Castelo
Architecture Office: Multiprojectus
Main Architect: Arqt.º João Pinto de Sousa
Collaboration: Arqt.º António Sousa e Arqt.ª Fernanda Araújo
Location: Lanheses, Viana do Castelo, Portugal
Year of conclusion: 2024
Total area: 27 000 m²
Builder: Garcia Garcia, S.A.
Engineering: Multiprojectus
Light Design: Multiprojectus
Acoustic Design: Multiprojectus
Fluids Engineering: Multiprojectus
Thermal Engineering: Multiprojectus
Visual identity: Multiprojectus
Architectural photographer: Ivo Tavares Studio