Portuguese architecture firm FCC Arquitectura has built organic and cave-like art gallery, giving references the artworks of sculptor Paulo Neves, whose atelier is situated right next door, in Cucujães, Oliveira de Azeméis, Portugal. 

Named MATO, the gallery covers only 48-square-metre area and shows how this minimum space can also be experienced as an art space. Built on a lush green in Oliveira de Azeméis, the gallery was designed for several temporary exhibitions of national and international artists to be held in the space. 

The studio takes inspiration from Neves' own works, organic design reflects the trait of Paulo Neves. The whole body is designed without straight surfaces. "As if a strange animal was born on the spot, mixed with the surrounding vegetation," said the firm.

The whole structure is raised on stilts above ground so that its footprint can be minimum in the nature. The building creates a striking section and its fluid interior can also be perceived easily. Upon entering, visitors only see undulating white-colored walls and thanks to this, they are able to concentrate on the artwork itself. 

The entire installation rests smoothly through specific points, almost levitating on the floor. The tubular metal frame, with its expanded polyurethane exterior, is designed to insulate and waterproof the building like a shell. 

A wooden floor was laid using trees removed from the site. Inside, the entire space has been coated with plaster to provide a continuous surface while constantly bending to support the display of works on display.

Floor plan

Roof plan

Cross-section

Sections

3D elevations

3D models

3D models-2 

3D models-3

Sections-1

Sections-2

Sections-3

Project facts

Location: Cucujães, Oliveira de Azeméis, Portugal

Project Year: Dec. 2011 / Starts of works - May 2012 / End works - Jun 2012

Construction area: 48m²

Materials: Expanded Polyuteran / Metal / Wood / Plasterboard / Glass

Builders
General builder - Vieira Constructions
Structure - Metalwork M. Peixoto & Aires
Plaster - Jonitecto
Exterior coating - Revesnunes
Paint - Lacca

All images © Fernando Guerra | FG+SG

> via FCC Arquitectura