Abandoned Lisbon mall reborn as Oriente Green Campus innovation hub

KPF and Saraiva+Associados have transformed an unfinished shopping mall in Moscavide, north of Lisbon, into the Oriente Green Campus, a 42,000-square-metre innovation hub with workspaces and a European University campus. Construction on the original mall stalled in 2012, leaving a city-block-sized concrete structure. The architects broke down the 'hulk' of the building, creating stepped terraces overlooking planted courtyards and rooftop gardens. Deep floor plates were repurposed for flexible offices and teaching spaces with minimal interiors retaining coffered concrete ceilings, while communal areas feature timber linings. Nine external spaces designed by JL Group include public event areas, courtyards, and private terraces linked by winding paths, spiral staircases, and glass lift shafts. A pavilion-like office with an undulating timber roof was added on top. The exterior is clad in glossy white terracotta tiles. KPF principal John Bushell described the project as 'the ultimate reuse of embodied carbon.' Photography by Fernando Guerra.