Memória e Proximidade: Projecto para um centro de apoio à agricultura familiar

Abstract

The main premise of this dissertation is the rehabilitation of the ruins of an old farmhouse, located in Vila Franca, municipality of Viana do Castelo. Through the creation of a support centre for family farming, this project aims to explore the way in which architecture can contribute to the valorisation of old productive landscapes, which, despite not being duly recognised, can play an important role in the resolution of environmental problems. As such, the conservation of the vernacular architectural heritage, whose nature is indissoluble from the traditional agricultural practices, is of the utmost importance. In summary, this project attempts to connect two very different subjects: architecture and agriculture. Particularly, by encouraging proximity food circuits, which contribute to the development of new socioeconomic dynamics, it is thought that this project might have a positive impact in the local population. Nevertheless, this dissertation, more so than a pursuit of a definitive answer, is a reflection exercise, a way in which to develop a critical awareness about the issues that are being studied. Thus, this project, far from being a final proposal, is the materialisation of an idea, that, just like architecture, should be progressive.