Modernist architecture in Portugal represents an era of transformation and innovation – a cultural response to the rapid changes brought about by the 20th century. Although influenced by international movements, the style acquired a distinctly Portuguese character marked by an adaptation to local traditions and the needs of a country under development. In Portugal, modernism emerged as a movement that opposed the ornate, historicist forms prevalent in the 19th century. It began in the 1930s and lasted until the 1960s, bringing about a new architectural language that emphasised functionality, simple forms, and integrations with nature. This movement was a celebration of modernity, demonstrating a growing confidence in technical and aesthetic innovation. In Faro, the capital of the picturesque Algarve region, modernist architecture is less an intruder and more a complement to the city’s historical tapestry. Here, modernism didn’t disregard history; instead, it began a dialogue with it. The modernist buildings in Faro are a testament to the architects’ ability to blend the new with the old, finding the perfect midpoint between the past and the future. An iconic example of this fusion is ALTO HOUSE. Designed by esteemed architect Manuel Gomes da Costa, the establishment encapsulates the essence of Portuguese modernism. Gomes da Costa, known for his innovative style, embraced the principles of modernism not only in terms of aesthetics, but also functionality. ALTO HOUSE, with its clean lines and efficient use of natural light, provides a living experience that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in Faro’s cultural landscape. Modernist architecture in Portugal, particularly in Faro, is a testament to the ability of architects to adapt an international movement to local characteristics. Far more than houses and buildings, these structures are stone and concrete narratives of a story of change, a country in transition, and a city that embraces its past while looking to the future. The essence of this style goes beyond creating spaces; it is rooted in establishing dialogues between time, culture, and the environment. As you wonder through the streets of Faro, or settle in for your stay at ALTO HOUSE, you’ll not only see, but experience the living history of Portugal’s modernist architecture.