A new staircase connects two different levels of terrain and is part of the local regeneration initiative of Paredes de Coura municipality.
Alva proposed a unique lighting solution that seamlessly integrates with the architecture, creating identity and adding value to the overall experience and image of the city during nighttime.
Being the region known as the breadbasket of Portugal, all around the region it is possible to see "Espigueiros" - a structure which was, and still is, used to dry cereals. Raised from the ground (to keep rodents out) by pillars and with slits on its walls in order to allow ventilation.
Client:
Paredes de Coura Municipality
Location:
Paredes de Coura, Portugal
Timeline:
2021-2023
Category:
Public Space
Status:
Ongoing
Collaboration Partners:
Architect: Susana Vassalo
Landscape Architect: Manuel Sousa
Electric Engineer: EnergiCoura
Taking inspiration from these vernacular structures, Fenda consists on a set of slits on the walls of the staircase where a diffused, omnidirectional light source is installed. Its form naturally works as an anti-glare shield providing comfort to the passersby while giving light its form and direction.
The use of vertical lighting elements supports the basic needs of seeing the floor, stairs, and faces while illuminating the vegetation and thus creating a pleasant atmosphere without the use of uplights or other light sources. The construction detail of the slits allows easy replacement of the IP-rated LED strips in the future without having to replace or update the remaining infrastructure.