Aurora Arquitectos Reverses Lisbon's 'Cod's Tail' Apartment Layout to Harness Southern Light

Aurora Arquitectos has transformed the Casa da Moeda Apartment in Lisbon by fundamentally altering its original 'Rabo de Bacalhau' typology. This mid-20th-century dwelling, characterized by solid masonry walls and concrete slabs, initially placed its living areas in shadowed northern spaces. The architects reversed this logic, moving the kitchen and lounge into the sun-drenched southern footprint previously occupied by bedrooms. A continuous open-plan volume now stretches across the main façade, dissolving boundaries between cooking, dining, and relaxation. Southern light reflects off pale surfaces, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The project tackled a disproportionately large entrance hall by integrating custom, curved cabinetry and a hidden pantry into a functional spine. This timber-toned element guides movement and links spaces. Material choices include fluted wood and veined marble, adding a tactile richness. Storage and technical needs were consolidated into specific zones to maintain a minimalist, flexible floor plan. The renovation respects the building's original masonry structure while introducing contemporary clarity. By placing the social heart against street-facing windows, the apartment now engages more vibrantly with Lisbon's urban life. This work is part of the studio's broader exploration of light as a primary building material, similar to their approach in the Barão Sabrosa Apartment renovation of a 'Gaioleiro' building.