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Siza Vieira – Pritzker (1992)
Some of the particularity of this pool lies in the name of its author, the architect Siza Vieira, the most renowned and awarded Portuguese architect today, but it is also worth mentioning that it is one of the best examples of what is known as organic architecture in Portugal. According to this line of architecture, as well as seeking to satisfy people’s interests, the building constructed must also take into account its integration into the environment, into nature.
Siza Vieira designed the Boa-Nova Tea House shortly before, almost simultaneously with the Quinta da Conceição Swimming Pool, at the end of the 1960s. He had completed his architecture degree at the Porto School of Fine Arts in 1955, making these monuments some of the young architect’s first works. Matosinhos City Council’s initial idea was actually to build a pond, fed by the coming and going of the nearby Atlantic Ocean.
The greatest representative of Portuguese architecture, he was the first Portuguese architect to receive a Pritzker Prize (1992). He also received a Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale (2012) and is known for his universal and particular architecture.
It is in Leça da Palmeira that we find some of his most emblematic works: the Quinta da Conceição Swimming Pool (1958-1965), the Marés Swimming Pool (1961-1966), the Boa Nova Tea House (1958-1965) and more recently the Leça da Palmeira waterfront (2006) which, as well as uniting these last two works, results in a space adapted to its new functions and characteristics of centrality and leisure space.
Piscina das Marés: From a Simple Pool to a National Monument
The Piscina das Marés, localizado no Leça Beach in the parish of Leça da Palmeira, Matosinhos, Portugal, is a stunning example of how a simple idea can transform into an architectural masterpiece. Initially envisioned as a basic swimming pool by the Matosinhos City Council, it became a celebrated monument thanks to the creative genius of Álvaro Siza Vieira.
A Vision Transformed
In the 1950s, the idea was straightforward: build a swimming pool next to the beach. This pool would merely be a functional space filled by the tide’s natural movement. However, when Álvaro Siza Vieira took on the project, the scope expanded dramatically. Siza Vieira, renowned as Portugal’s most celebrated contemporary architect, saw beyond the ordinary. By 1966, his vision had materialized into the Piscina das Marés, an intricate and beautiful set of saltwater pools.
A Historical Gem
Built in the 1960s, the Piscina das Marés is not just any swimming pool; it has been officially classified as a National Monument since 2006. This recognition is a testament to its architectural significance and cultural importance. The site features two saltwater pools—one designated for children and another for adults—along with changing rooms and a bar/lounge. These amenities offer a refined alternative to the numerous beaches stretching along Matosinhos’ coastline.
The Architect: Álvaro Siza Vieira
Álvaro Siza Vieira, who completed his architecture degree at the Porto School of Fine Arts in 1955, is a pivotal figure in modern architecture. His work, including the Piscina das Marés, exemplifies organic architecture, a style that emphasizes harmony with nature and integration into the environment. Before tackling the Piscina das Marés, Siza Vieira had already designed the Boa Nova Tea House, showcasing his unique architectural approach.
In 1992, Siza Vieira was honored with the Pritzker Prize, often regarded as architecture’s highest accolade. His innovative work earned him further recognition with a Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale in 2012. Siza Vieira’s designs, including the Piscina das Marés, highlight his mastery in creating spaces that resonate both universally and uniquely within their contexts.
A Legacy of Design Excellence
Leça da Palmeira is home to several of Siza Vieira’s iconic works. Besides the Piscina das Marés and the Boa Nova Tea House, his influence is evident in the Quinta da Conceição Swimming Pool and the revitalized Leça da Palmeira waterfront. These projects reflect his commitment to blending functional design with aesthetic appeal, creating spaces that are not only practical but also enriching for their users.
In summary, the Piscina das Marés stands as a testament to Álvaro Siza Vieira’s visionary talent and the evolution of architectural possibilities. From its humble beginnings as a simple pool to its status as a National Monument, it continues to be a cherished landmark, celebrated for its elegance and thoughtful design.