The project envisages the development of an innovative ecologically clean district with residential areas, a university campus, a large park and public spaces. It will be developed by an international consortium led by architectural studios MVRDV and OODA. The team also includes LOLA, Thornton Tomasetti, A400 and LiveWork, write Archdaily.
A team of specialists who will deal with the project. Photo: Walter Branco
Established in 1970, the refinery is located near Porto, the second largest city in Portugal. It was important to the local economy from the time it opened until it was decommissioned in 2021.
Now, architects are striving to turn this area into an environmentally conscious and innovative district, taking into account the successful geographical location and preservation of industrial heritage.
The oil refinery, located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, was of great importance for the local economy. Photo: Walter Branco
"We have a plan to create a "city within a city" taking into account the natural features and location of the object. Inspired by the local culture, we want to design here a city of the future with a global awareness of sustainable development, which means the renaturalization of the place, the return of native species and the natural environment, the reuse of industrial heritage and the installation of advanced technologies. This will not only allow for the production of green energy, but will also create an unprecedented and sustainable urban space," says OODA architect Rodrigo Vilas-Boas.
The former enterprise will be turned into an ecologically clean town, which should attract investments. Photo: Walter Branco
Specialists will focus special attention on the creation of green infrastructure to establish a connection with the surrounding dune landscapes. For now, the oil refinery is awaiting dismantling, after which the soil will be reclaimed. The dates for the start and completion of construction have not yet been announced.
Read also
American archstudio bought the iconic architect's brutalist building to renovate it
A city on water is being built in the Maldives. What will it look like?
IKEA helps create reception centers for refugees from Ukraine