CR Apartment by ESQVTA
Discover the stunning transformation of the CR Apartment, a luxurious gem nestled in the heart of Porto, Portugal. Designed by ESQVTA, this magnificent residence seamlessly integrates modern family living with the rich historical charm of its 17th-century architectural heritage.
Experience the best of both worlds, as contemporary design and timeless elegance come together to create a truly unforgettable living space.
About CR Apartment
Preserving Architectural Heritage with Minimal Intervention
When updating this apartment, it was crucial to respect the existing architecture. The goal was not to impose new designs, but rather to refurbish and integrate with care. This minimalist intervention allowed the apartment to meet its new requirements without sacrificing its historical charm.
An Apartment with Rich Historical Roots
This apartment is located in a building originally designed as a Hotel Particulier. It occupies the entire first floor, which once housed 11 parlors, including one used as a bathroom. As the social hub of the building, these rooms boasted intricate mural paintings on their walls and ceilings.
Pedro Espírito Santo purchased the first-floor apartment when it became an individual housing unit. Its 11 spacious living areas made it the perfect venue for hosting exquisite events in Lisbon. By 2019, a new owner acquired the apartment, seeking a space more suited for family living.
Adapting to Modern Family Needs
The updated design preserved the apartment’s architectural heritage while adapting it for a family’s needs. For example, the apartment now includes six bathrooms instead of one, without compromising its original features.
A primary concern was ensuring the new design didn’t overshadow the pre-existing architecture. Although the refurbishment respected the building’s seventeenth-century heritage and discreetly integrated modern materials, the interior design project carefully selected twenty-first-century furniture pieces to create a harmonious blend of old and new.
Merging History with Contemporary Living
The updated space reinterprets history through a new language and pieces, while upholding one fundamental principle: creating a home meant for living. The successful fusion of the past and present demonstrates that respecting architectural heritage doesn’t have to mean sacrificing modern comfort and style.
Photography by Ricardo Oliveira Alves
- by Matt Watts
