The completion of the M-ODU roof marks one of the main milestones in the execution of this urban regeneration project in Porto’s eastern zone. Covering approximately 10,000 m², the roof establishes the connection between the different buildings in the complex and shapes the future central plaza of the development.
Promoted by Emerge – Mota-Engil Real Estate Developers, the M-ODU results from the transformation of Porto’s former Industrial Slaughterhouse into a new urban hub that will integrate workspaces, culture, commerce, dining, and leisure. The project features architecture by Kengo Kuma & Associates, in collaboration with Portuguese firm OODA, engineering by A400, and construction by Mota-Engil Engenharia e Construção (MEEC).
A roof covering approximately 10,000 m²
The roof constitutes the main unifying element of the M-ODU. More than connecting the different buildings, it defines the space of the future central plaza, designed to welcome people, organizations, and cultural initiatives daily and create new ways of using public space.
Inspired by the Japanese concept Komorebi – the light that filters through tree canopies and creates constantly changing shadow patterns – the structure features a permeable geometry that encourages natural light entry and creates different light and shadow experiences throughout the day.
Engineering and architecture in a highly complex structure
The realization of a roof of this scale and geometry required close coordination between architecture, engineering, and construction, transforming the architectural intent into an executable structural solution.
A400 provides the engineering for the M-ODU, contributing to the technical coordination of a complex that integrates new buildings, rehabilitated existing structures, an elevated pedestrian walkway, and the large central roof.
The project extends over approximately 26,000 m² and will have capacity to accommodate more than 2,300 people.
With the completion of the M-ODU roof and the main structural works, the project now enters the final phase of its execution.
See the M-ODU roof
Follow in video some of the moments and images from this new phase of the project.