Bar in the Diana Garden

The Diana Garden, next to the Roman Temple of Diana, has a peculiar topographic location – a garden placed on a plinth that is contained by retaining walls, from where one is able to see the Évora cityscape with Alentejo plains on the horizon.

The pavilion lies under the central cluster of trees, taking advantage of the shadow and the cool atmosphere the vegetation provides. It leaves the surrounding paths free, occasionally busy with tables and chairs.

The project concept refers back to the small metallic pavilions and bandstands of the Portuguese nineteenth-century gardens.

The form is deliberately abstract to avoid emphasizing any specific direction or competition with the paths and lines in the garden.

The circle is subdivided in fixed and move able parts that can rebate over the other.

In the winter time the glazed cylinder becomes a shelter; the glass walls enclose and protect from the tempests.

In the summer time the cylinder provides breeze and shadow: the glass walls slide laterally – the pavilion opens and dematerializes.

The circular pavilion is simultaneously transparent and reflective, mirroring nature and becoming an integral part of the garden material.

Bar at the Water Tank of Évora

Making use of a disused water tank located at an unusual point high position in the topography of Évora, this building reflects the sky.

We feel like we are in a kaleidoscope with multiple views out over the city.