Retrofitting History: Melhoramentos Company's Iconic Headquarters

Guilherme Torres' Award-Winning Design Respects Past, Embraces Future

The Melhoramentos Company, an icon of Brazil's industrial revolution, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with its community. The centennial building, listed by the patrimony, was the site where Brazil's first paper money was printed in 1932 during the Constitutionalist revolution. This retrofit project aims to reposition these values of corporate culture and community to society.

Guilherme Torres' design is a unique blend of respect for the past and vision for the future. The entire building is reconfigured around the existing central atrium, adhering to its structural grid. Through a rational study of its structural systems, four hydraulic cores were created to serve all floors. This careful and considered approach to design ensures the building's historic integrity is preserved while modern needs are met.

On the ground floor, curved walls and soft ramps shield the interior from the street, creating a smooth transition to a large open atrium. This atrium is organized around a water mirror, a design element that fosters harmony among all the building's functions. This innovative design feature not only enhances the building's aesthetic appeal but also promotes a sense of unity and communication within the space.

The project's unique properties and innovative approach have not gone unnoticed. The design was awarded Silver in the A' Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design Award in 2017. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and innovation. It is a testament to the design's strong technical characteristics, splendid artistic skill, and its ability to evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, Guilherme Torres' retrofit of the Melhoramentos Company building is a shining example of how design can respect history while embracing the future. It is a testament to the power of design to transform spaces, honor heritage, and inspire communities. This project serves as an inspiration for designers and architects worldwide, demonstrating the potential for design to create meaningful and lasting impact.