Estratégias de reconstrução Urbana. A experiência do Chiado em discurso directo

Abstract

(Reconstruction, continuity, transformation, method) The following thesis aims to study the strategy chalked by Álvaro Siza towards the reconstruction works carried at Chiado, in Lisbon, using it as a platform for understanding the capable design solutions as means to transpose the renovation of the historic urban fabric into contemporary culture. The proposed reflection has as a principle the desire to learn how to transform the city of the past, so that it perpetuates in the future. The relevance of this study resides through the understanding that these two periods have to be superimposed under analysis, through a critical in depth position. For a better understanding and framing of the given strategy we ought to recall the end of the Second World War, where enlightened by a fast paced transforming spirit and in an attempt to quickly solve the urban traumas felt by European cities, the most interesting speeches are made on how to transform cities: attending to it's historic continuity or in re-doing? The dialogue between tradition and innovation is ever present as well as the importance on the knowledge of History and Memory in opposition to the Modern functionalist speech. The Chiado in direct speech Through a series of interviews with the three architects who were directly involved in the coordination of the Chiado re qualification plan: Álvaro Siza, Carlos Castanheira and Jorge Carvalho; and with Roberto Collovà, a scholar of the work and method of Álvaro Siza, as well as heritage affairs; a research path was traced, supported by the speech of these intellectual individuals. More than an in depth analysis of the concluded works, the intention of this thesis is to study the generating options, and the method that conveyed them. In an attempt to raise awareness for the importance of the study method, as well as for the discussion of these critical issues and their operation mode, reaffirming the diligent attitude of Alvaro Siza, to regards to the rising problems associated with the intervention of the consolidated city. It is in the complex tension between tradition and modernity that lies the genius of the Chiado requalification.