METAMORFOSE / FAHR 012.3

Architects: FAHR 012.3
Location: Porto, Portugal
Photographs: Courtesy of FAHR 021.3

Light Design: José Nuno Sampaio
Engineer: NCREP
Execution : LETRATEC
Communication : Carla Brites Santos
Co Funding: O Novo Norte – Operational Program for the North Region, QREN – Quadro de Referência Estratégico Nacional, European Union – European Fund for Regional Development
Music : Orpheus Ticked – Ergo Phizmiz (creative commons)
Initiative: Porto Destino Criativo – LOCOMOTIVA
Promoter: Porto Lazer
Materials : Quadrangular profile steel
Dimensions (Approx.): 28m extension, 12m height, 5m depth
Weight : 6000 kg
Number Of Intersections: 200
Materials In Metres: 400 running metres

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From the architect. Amid the architectural diversity of one of the most representative areas in Porto, Metamorfose, by creative team FAHR 021.3, stands out. The impact of the green metal mesh filling the void by one of the city’s gateway is undeniable. The result of this intimate dialogue with the city is absolute perfection when bringing together all the elements that make up the area around São Bento train station.

Provocation is on its way. Where today decay, destruction and desertion are what is left, Metamorfose has found its place. The ruin, part of the history of the city, is now an area of intervention and, first and foremost, of imagination. It engages the eye and induces discomfort. It creates a new scenery in Porto and dignifies a space that was once destitute.

Six tons of steel, 28 metres long, 11 metres high, 5 metres deep and almost 200 intersections, all different – these are data that compose this digitally developed metal mesh. A mesh that finds its physicality in the irregularity that is a by-product of the human hand. In line with the creative team’s philosophy, the plastic gesture, which breaks free from formalisms and rules in construction, in a city centre such as Porto, puts into evidence the intent of provoking and surprising people. The use of colour itself, default in 3D modelling software, is a statement of its challenging essence.

This is the only way Metamorfose would ever make sense for the duo FAHR 021.3. Framed by the Locomotiva initiative, promoted by Porto Lazer, the team present a project that sums up their provocative vision and reflects a new architectural and artistic approach to one of the most characteristic elements in Porto – void spaces. FAHR looks at these spaces, found repeatedly throughout the city, and see possible opportunities for intervention and imagination.

Exception is provocative. Disruption is challenging. City and structure strike up a dialogue. Metamorphosis awakes. Possible interpretations are endless, intent is attained.