Portuguese ruins redesigned for adaptive reuse
“Sanctuary creates an immersive experience where ruins and landscape coexist harmoniously by skilfully fusing history and nature.”—–Kiasma Studio.
“Sanctuary” is an evolutionary landscape project that breathes new life into the ruins of an ancient Portuguese building, resulting in an immersive bar and kitchen experience. Nestled in rugged terrain, this design embraces nature’s raw beauty while harmoniously blending with historic architecture. The outcome is a captivating space that seamlessly integrates history, nature, and design.
As guests walk into “Sanctuary”, they are greeted by ruins partially encased in the roots of a centuries-old tree—an evocative metaphor for resilience and adaptation. These preserved ruins serve as a testament to the site’s history, while nature’s encroachment represents the interaction of the built and the organic. This balance establishes the tone for a landscape intended to amplify the link between the past and the present.
The landscape embraces, rather than taming, the rugged terrain, turning obstacles into creative opportunities. Winding stone pathways lead guests through lush greenery, revealing hidden nooks. These paths serve as narrative elements, inviting exploration at a leisurely pace. Elevated viewpoints offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, highlighting the contrast between ancient ruins and untamed nature. Locally sourced materials, such as natural stone, help to reinforce the project’s sustainability and deep connection to the land.
Art is woven throughout the space, with sculptures and murals narrating stories about the site’s history. These elements are not just decorations; they are essential to the experience, encouraging guests to engage with history and landscape meaningfully. Natural stone steps lead to elevated viewpoints, perfectly integrating nature, light, and architecture. The blurred lines between indoor and outdoor spaces create a natural flow that encourages movement and discovery.
“Sanctuary” is an exceptional example of adaptive reuse, in which design transforms a challenging space into a vibrant and reflective destination. Whether visitors come for art, nature, or peace, the experience lasts beyond their visit. This project demonstrates landscape design’s ability to connect people to the stories embedded in the land.
For more details, visit: https://www.instagram.com/kiasma.studio/?hl=en
