LU.CA – Luís de Camões Theatre

The smallness of this space is explained by the private nature of its former function: it was the Opera House of King D. João V from 1737 onwards. The project commissioned by Lisboa Ocidental SRU rehabilitates this Italian-style theatre room, keeps some elements of the 1880 restoration and questions the interventions of the 1930s. The building displays a notable symmetry with a solid one-story facade decorated with oval windows and acroteria-statues. The plan for the reception, administration, technicians and cafeteria spaces is rather assertive. The principal room of this municipal space remains adaptable because of the movable seats and the introduction of the side aisles. The vibration, movement and chromaticity of the finishes, as well as the fenestration choices are also present in other projects by the aforesaid architects. The terrace is open to visitation and offers extensive views over the Ajuda National Palace and the south bank of the Tagus.