Viana STARTS Center Renovation Has Began
Funded by EUI, with an investment of over 6 million euros, the project involves the complete renovation of the old slaughterhouse in Viana do Castelo, transforming it into a cradle for innovation and creativity in science, technology and the arts.
Following the principles of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) – aesthetics, sustainability and inclusion, the new Viana STARTS centre aims to be a world-class reference for sustainable building. Its renovation is based on some essential premises such as:
· Thorough study about the building’s location and context (and engagement of the surrounding community in its development);
· Maximization of the use of existing buildings to minimize waste production and enhance the value of existing buildings;
· Support to architects and the building team in finding sustainable solutions to consider in the project;
· Integration of renewable energy sources and solutions that promote energy and water efficiency.
Viana STARTS center is thus a prototype-space for innovative solutions in terms of energetic efficiency and circular economy (including the development and testing of at least, 20 new solutions). This way, not only respects the most rigorous environment and sustainability regulatory guidelines (BREEAM, LEED, Nearly Zero Consumption Buildings, Do No Significant Harm, etc), but also it allows the experimentation and implementation of creative ideas and innovative solutions with actual market potential.
The center is part of the overarching Viana STARTS project, which aims to create a creative community laboratory through the integration of science, technology, and art, involving the participation of several entities, including the Viana do Castelo City Council and international partners from cities such as Brest, Brescia, and Las Palmas.
The project is scheduled for completion in December 2026.
Follow Viana STARTS Centre renovation works and other ongoing initiatives at the project’s social network pages!