Vasco de Gama Centre

Lisbon’s mixed-use beacon shines bright.

We were inspired by the city’s Expo ’98 theme — ‘the oceans’ — which influenced everything from sail-form tower profiles to shopping centre detailing.

The scheme comprises a covered 60,000 sq m (645,800 sq ft) retail and leisure building over four floors, featuring a dramatic central space and external dining overlooking the waterfront. We have since received a repeat commission to refurbish some of the retail areas.

The development’s two 24-storey residential towers contain 300 apartments ranging from studios to four-bedroom flats.

Brief

  • create a mixed-use scheme in Lisbon’s new Expo district
  • regenerate 7km of former docklands
  • build an eye-catching ‘gateway’ to the city

Results

  • a vibrant residential, leisure and retail hub
  • a distinctive landmark visible from air, sea and road
  • invitation to carry out refurbishment work
  • awards: MIPIM Best Shopping Centre Award 2000, ICSC Award (Europe) 2000, ICSC Certificate of Merit (USA) 2000

Facts

Location: Lisbon, Portugal
Client: Sonae Imobiliária
Construction cost: £60m
Completed: retail 1999, housing 2005, refurb 2008
Awards: 3

Integrated services

architecture, environmental engineering, structural engineering, interior design, graphic design, lighting

Links to images