ALTO HOUSE, modernist architecture, and architect Manuel Gomes da Costa
Located in the charming city of Faro, known for its eclectic architectural styles, ALTO HOUSE stands out as a jewel of Portuguese modernist architecture. This architectural current, which flourished between the 1930s and 1960s, is notable for the focus placed on functionality and simple forms.
In Faro, modernist architecture reflects a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, creating a unique urban landscape that enchants both visitors and residents alike. Boasting an elegant facade with clean lines, ALTO HOUSE is a perfect example of this trend. We provide our guests with an immersive experience into this distinctive architectural style.
The soul behind the ALTO HOUSE concept: Manuel Gomes da Costa.
Known for his innovative approach and ability to redesign the limits of architecture in his projects, Gomes da Costa was a prominent figure in Portuguese modernist architecture.
At ALTO HOUSE, his approach strikes a perfect between the aesthetics of modernist architecture, regional awareness, and the surrounding landscape. Beyond creating the architect’s signature style, the clever use of natural light, open spaces, and clean lines are also a gateway into an authentic experience deeply rooted in Faro’s essence and progressive spirit.
The unique design
The project started as a small hotel with 15 rooms. In the 1980s, the establishment was expanded with the addition of a new floor and six additional bedrooms. To this day, the building has maintained the distinctive features of Gomes da Costa’s original design: compact but highly functional, bright rooms, stairs with distinctive angled mirrors, handrails with rhythmic geometric designs, and the remarkable architectural design window and door frames.
Though the cuts featured are not the original ones, the specifications were signed off on by the architect.
The renovation project by architect João Coutinho
For the ambitious revitalisation project, developers Miguel Morgado and Paulo Santos challenged architect João Coutinho to modernise the building.
The challenge was far from straightforward: updating the establishment to meet contemporary thermal and acoustic requirements, infusing comfort into the rooms, and reinterpreting Gomes da Costa’s original vision for the year 2023. All this while maintaining the charm and modernist spirit that make Alto House such a special place.
As a response to the challenge of optimising each room, João Coutinho designed several pieces of furniture that complement the modernist aesthetic but could also be added into each space to complement the existing originals. Every detail, from the bedrooms and bathrooms to the common areas, exudes the original spirit of Gomes da Costa, which has since been preserved and updated for the modern visitor.
ALTO HOUSE in the media
Students visit The Modernist Weekend.
LSD Faro students and teachers are get involved in local events to boost enriching extra-curricular activities. Find out more about what the students got up to during The Modernist Weekend.
A weekend exploring Faro's modernist architecture
The initiative aims to reflect on the preservation of the modernist heritage in the region and pay tribute to it through works by international artists.
Tourism that tells stories: The Modernist Weekend
A route that showcases the legacy of the modernist architectural movement in Faro. This itinerary allows us to discover Portugal and both its cultural and natural wealth.
Faro holds the second edition of The Modernist Weekend
The past and present of Faro’s modernist heritage sets the tone for the second edition of The Modernist Weekend, from the 9th to the 12th November.
Faro celebrates the 2nd edition of 'The Modernist Weekend'
From the 9th to the 12th of November participants can enjoy themed tours, open houses, an exhibition of work by international artists, and a conference. To round off the programme, a dinner and party at Hotel Aeromar will take participants back in time to the 1970s
Guided tour of modernism in the Algarve
The Modernist Weekend is a themed weekend dedicated to modernist architecture in the Algarve. It may come as a surprise, but Faro – the city hosting the initiative – is home to hundreds of modernist buildings. Some up-keptup-kept, many that have fallen into disrepair.
