Museum of Porto Storage Facilities
The building, with a mixed structure of stone masonry, reinforced concrete and timber, was subject to a rigorous programme of structural inspection and diagnosis, including in situ and laboratory testing. This work enabled the assessment of its state of conservation and load-bearing capacity in view of its change of use to a municipal archive. Based on this diagnosis, strengthening solutions and load optimisation measures were developed, ensuring structural safety, compatibility with the existing construction and a controlled, efficient intervention.
Concept & Challenge
The conversion of the building into a municipal archive involved a significant increase in loading requirements, posing the challenge of ensuring structural safety without compromising the integrity of the existing structure. The objective was to adapt the building to the new demands while respecting the limits of intervention and preserving its original construction characteristics.
Approach & Methodology
A comprehensive structural survey was carried out, including a detailed construction survey, assessment of the state of conservation, and non-destructive and load testing. The analysis considered the actual structural behaviour under the new requirements and included optimisation of load distribution in close coordination with the design team.
Solution & Results
Targeted and efficient structural strengthening solutions were implemented in the most highly loaded areas, together with consolidation works to the timber structure. The adopted strategy ensured the safety and durability of the building, enabling its successful conversion into a municipal archive with minimal impact on the existing structure.
The adaptation and rehabilitation project combined technical rigour with respect for the existing building within an integrated approach. Through an in-depth programme of structural inspection and diagnosis, effective strengthening solutions were developed to meet the new loading requirements while minimising intervention. The project ensured the building’s safety, functionality and long-term value, supporting its sustainable future use.
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