Articles

The latest issue of ArchiNews focuses on the work of Fragmentos. This edition was born at a turning point: thirty years of working together. A publication that serves as an exercise in memory and recognition, because each project is also a reflection of a phase, an idea, a team. And because for us, creating architecture is also about leaving a mark, be it in the city, in the territory, and in the people we encounter along the way.

Nobilus, in Vilamoura, Portugal, is a multi-family housing project whose CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) structure represents more than just a construction solution — it reflects a genuine shift in the way architecture is conceived and built. Teresa Barbosa, associate architect responsible for the project, and Alexandre Fontinhas, from Norfin, share their complementary perspectives on a ongoing  process that, over time, has evolved and transformed.

Maria do Rosário Jacinto joined Fragmentos in 2013, but her connection with the atelier began much earlier, through occasional projects and a growing friendship. In 2016, she assumed the role of project coordinator, and in 2018, she became an associate architect. In 2025, she was announced as one of the atelier's new partners.

One of the most remarkable rehabilitation projects in recent years, not only because of its size but also for the challenges it presented, is the rehabilitation and conversion of a palace in Campo das Cebolas. Miguel Martins Santos spoke with Diana Nigra about the key challenges of this unique project, which lasted a total of eight years.

Designing is always about transformation – starting from something that could be a desire, a wish, a piece of land with its constraints, or even an existing structure. Can we then say that architects create the world? Do they have the tools to change it?

The value of an architectural project is not easily quantifiable and often goes beyond merely defining fees. What factors come into play? How do you assign value to a project? And how do you ensure that the project adds and creates value?

Scattered among natural elements, the villas create a visual impression of reduced impact, allowing the landscape to prevail over the built areas. The integration of the volumes into the landscape and the preservation of the local identity is the guiding principle of the entire project.

Architecture changes people's lives and the territory; it has a clear and effective impact on everything it touches. It's crucial for the architect to be aware of this and take responsibility for the impact of their practice. But how do we ensure we're doing it the right way?

In Alcântara, once the main industrial hub of Lisbon, two warehouses will be converted into a mixed-use office complex with several open space areas. We spoke with Francisco Ferreira, Head of Sales and Marketing at Prime, and architects Maria do Rosário Jacinto and Jorge Ferreira.