Álvaro Siza is no stranger to Inhabitat - in August we revisited the architect's amazing Serpentine solar installation in London. The Carlos Ramos Pavilion in Porto is another beautiful display of Siza's vision - the timeless design renovated an aging architecture school into beautiful minimalist building.

The restored two-storey building began its life as an architecture school in the Portuguese port town. The buildings are now arranged with a shared courtyard in the center and large windows overlooking the space. The Portuguese architect designed the structure so that every room would have diagonal views of the Douro River and beyond.

The design is kept simple and minimal – it focuses on enhancing space with elevated walls and creating quiet areas for studying. Siza paid specific attention to details to hone in on this approach – seats are built into a curved balcony on the first floor to provide a site for inspiration and contemplation.

+ Álvaro Siza

Images courtesy of Nelson Garrido