José Adrião Arquitetos is an architectural practice based in Lisbon, Portugal, founded by architect José Adrião in 2002. The studio emerged after Adrião’s earlier co-founding of JAPP Arquitetos in 1996. José Adrião holds a degree in architecture from the University of Porto and a master’s from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, reflecting both national and international influences in his education.
The practice is recognized for its work on urban rehabilitation, transformations of historic sites, and interventions in public spaces. Notable projects include the adaptation of a pre-Pombaline building in Lisbon’s Mouraria neighborhood, where the team restored and converted a former workshop into the 113 Three Mills restaurant, a project completed in 2022 with a total area of 102 square meters. This site revealed archaeological traces of early flour mills, layering new uses on top of significant local history.
Another significant realization is the extension and refurbishment of Escola EB1 nº 36 in Lisbon, focusing not only on technical upgrades but also on respecting the pedagogical goals embedded in the original 1970s Montessori-inspired design. In the realm of public space, their project for the transformation of Praça Fonte Nova reclaimed a car park under a ring-road flyover for the community, earning the FAD Prize in 2018.
The studio’s portfolio encompasses residential buildings, educational facilities, retail, and urban masterplans. Their approach is distinguished by detailed analysis of context, adaptive reuse, and integration of community and historical layers. Among industry recognition, José Adrião Arquitetos has received awards including the FAD Prize, Vilalva Award, and various distinctions for rehabilitation and public projects. The practice is composed of a multidisciplinary team and continues to focus its work primarily in and around Lisbon.