perched upon a plateau of earth to overlook the landscape, the 'hotel and catering school' is the product of a collaborative effort by portuguese architect eduardo souto de moura and graca correia of practice correia/raggazzi arquitectos. positioned within the old robinson factory, the structure defines a new street within the rehabilitated grounds and overhangs a natural slope along the southern boundary of the site. the volumes long southern elevation becomes a large balcony with compartments extending from the classroom, library, lounge, and restaurant spaces to enjoy the scenery.
the north facade is entirely closed, a solid wall with a yellow ochre hue running along the internal road. offices bordering the barrier are set back and open to internal private courtyards to receive daylight. infrastructural support including functioning and training kitchens are contained within a detached building with a blue color scheme to evoke traditional bakeries and locations with special hygiene requirements. huge skylights and chimneys rise above the edge of the flat roof. maintaining the industrial character serves a greater purpose, preservation of the historic memory of nearby portalegre's urban fabric through heritage.