about
The Instituto is a focal point for different forms of cultural expression. It is located in a restored warehouse on Rua dos Clérigos, in the heart of Porto. The original building was designed in the 1950s by renowned architect and engineer Júlio de Brito, who was also responsible for significant projects in the vicinity such as the Teatro Rivoli, Café Aviz and Confeitaria Ateneia. The site was initially occupied by the pharmaceutical warehouses of the Instituto Pasteur, comprising a unique collection of small industrial premises in addition to two annexes and a spacious courtyard. Just like a significant proportion of Porto’s built heritage, the complex lay abandoned for several decades. In 2017, it was purchased by architect Paulo Moreira, who opened a studio in the building in 2018 following a modest, careful restoration. The Instituto is conceived as an interdisciplinary extension to the studio.