The Associação Nacional de Doentes com Artrite Reumatóide (the Portuguese Association of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis) provides medical and social support to patients, their families and support members. This association promotes and implements training programs and workshops about prevention, information, education, social counselling and scientific research.
Two premises were fundamental for this project: functionality and the feeling of comfort and well-being. The solution came from the reference of a simple shape rising from the ground.
The “I” shape is direct, simple and firm. In addition, this shape merges with the topographic surroundings allowing it to blend in.
Its interior design allows all main areas to have direct contact with the exterior. Terraces are placed in the social core to offer fluidity between the interior and the exterior. The different cores follow a rhythm where they sometimes overlap, always keeping functionality in the foreground.
Thermal comfort had a great impact on the concept’s development, because it influences people’s well-being. Natural cross ventilation features were set to balance the interior temperature and humidity.
The choice of materials aims at reducing the need and cost of existing maintenance. Thus, the use of resources is more efficient.
Following an organic and minimalist concept, the individual gets a sense of belonging.