Project: Gaia River Douro Duplex
Architecture: Sabrab Architecture
Location: Vila Nova De Gaia, Porto, Portugal
Area: 180 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Sabrab Architecture
Gaia River Douro Duplex by Sabrab Architecture is a refined apartment located directly on the banks of the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. Set within a historic riverside building, the 150 m² duplex demonstrates how tradition and modern comfort can be woven together seamlessly. As a result, the project stands as a thoughtful reflection of place, light, and material.
Preserving Heritage While Embracing Modernity
Sabrab Architecture retained the original stone walls and wooden structure, ensuring the historic character of the building remained intact. At the same time, the team introduced a calm, contemporary interior defined by clean lines, mid-century furnishings, and a soft color palette. This sensitive combination allows the Gaia River Douro Duplex to feel both rooted in history and aligned with modern living standards.
A Two-Level Arrangement for Daily Living
The apartment unfolds across two levels. On the lower floor, open-plan living and dining areas encourage social interaction while connecting directly to the riverfront views. Meanwhile, the upper level houses the sleeping quarters beneath exposed timber beams, offering warmth and intimacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist balconies frame uninterrupted panoramas, allowing the rhythm of the Douro to become part of daily life.
Interiors Defined by Texture and Elegance
The interiors balance rustic textures with refined details. For instance, quilted bedspreads, velvet cushions, and artisanal decor highlight Porto’s craft traditions while natural wood finishes create a sense of durability and comfort. Moreover, playful touches such as vintage Eames-style chairs and bold graphic textiles add personality, ensuring the duplex feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
Light, Material, and Custom Design
Throughout the Gaia River Douro Duplex, architecture and interior design are treated as inseparable. Custom cabinetry and built-in desks integrate seamlessly into the building’s rhythm, reinforcing its structure while providing functionality. In addition, the preserved stone and timber serve as tactile backdrops for modern life. Every space benefits from generous natural light, which enhances both the materials and the spectacular views of the river.
A Riverside Home with Lasting Character
Ultimately, Gaia River Douro Duplex is more than a renovation project. It is a poetic retreat shaped by its location on the Douro River, crafted with sensitivity and architectural intelligence. By blending history with modernity, Sabrab Architecture has created a serene yet lively home that speaks to both the past and the present.
