Foz Nature, a residential project located in the prestigious Foz neighbourhood in Porto, was officially launched on May 15th at an event held at Casa de Montevideu. The development was recognised with the award for Best Residential Development (10–19 Units) at the 2024–25 International Property Awards, promoted by IPAX Global, as announced by Inspired Orbit, the project’s developer.

Designed by the architectural firm CCHE, the development comprises 17 villas, ranging from three- to five-bedroom duplexes (T3 to T5), with areas between 424 m² and 654 m². The project stands out for its strong commitment to sustainability and several technical innovations that ensure a harmonious integration between the natural surroundings and the built environment.

In addition to a meticulously planned landscape design—combining natural elements such as stone with the organic lines of various tree species and ornamental vegetation that envelop the entire development—one of Foz Nature’s most notable innovations was the execution of a comprehensive light study. This study analysed sun exposure and the shadows cast by trees and vegetation throughout the year to optimise thermal comfort and enhance the residents’ connection with both the interior and exterior living spaces.

“Foz Nature is a very special project for us,” said Manuel João Preto, Chairman of the TENSAI Group and shareholder of Inspired Orbit. “The International Property Awards are a highly regarded industry accolade with over 30 years of history, and this recognition affirms that we have created a truly unique living environment—a distinctive concept of inhabiting nature, unlike anything else on the national or international market.”

According to the developer, based in Leça da Palmeira, “our focus on sustainability and creating a strong relationship with nature is something we’ve already pursued in other projects, such as Foz Village, Foz Terraces, and Green Plaza Carcavelos. But with Foz Nature, this connection with the natural elements has reached a whole new level.”

“From the landscaping to the light management—which helps create the sensation of living within nature, even in the heart of the city—to the offering of two finishing lines, Nature and Intense, which allow each unit to be tailored to its future owner’s preferences, we believe we’ve achieved something truly unique among residential developments in Portugal,” concluded Miguel Chaves, Board Member of Inspired Orbit.

Learn more at FozNature.pt

The Foz Terraces building, a project developed by Inspired Orbit in Foz do Douro, Porto, and designed by the CCHE architecture firm, was recently highlighted by two globally recognized architecture websites: ArchDaily (Brazil edition) and Archilovers.

The publications showcase a unique building with cantilevered balconies, emphasizing the combination of different prefabricated concrete elements and the black metal details on the façades. The privileged location of Foz Terraces, near Foz beaches, its excellent sun exposure, and distinctive architectural features—particularly the interior garden that connects different levels of the terrain and creates social spaces close to nature—enhance well-being and foster a strong sense of community.

With elegant and modern interiors, from the individual units to the main entrances, the building is characterized by the presence of greenery, prefabricated concrete, and wood, giving it a timeless and robust character.

🔹 ArchDaily Brasil: See here (https://lnkd.in/dT6RtQjB)
🔹 Archilovers: See here (https://lnkd.in/dNcKG2jH)

Fragmentos is an architecture studio with extensive experience in various projects. To start, could you tell me a bit about its history and philosophy?

Fragmentos is a collective of creative architects and engineers, with specialized departments in interiors, sustainability, and communication. Throughout the year, we focus on training and sharing knowledge in the “Fratalks” we organize. Fragmentos began with the desire of three friends to create good architecture, and today, after 30 years, we have grown to more than 60 members. We are many, but always with a focus on creativity and excellence. Clients recognize the quality of our work, which is crucial as they return to us.

The Green Plaza Carcavelos project is innovative and ambitious. How did the opportunity to work on this project arise?

The Green Plaza Carcavelos project started like many others, with the client approaching Fragmentos to study an urban project on a plot of land divided into three parcels. These parcels had previously been the subject of an old development plan, although no construction had taken place, the land had already been designated for municipal purposes. This resulted in irregularly shaped parcels, posing challenges for the project.

What was the main inspiration behind the design of Green Plaza?

The project started typically, with the client briefing us, conducting a careful analysis of the territory, and studying the best program. Fragmentos has extensive experience in design, construction, project management, and building maintenance, which are crucial contributions in the initial phase to arrive at the ideal program and concept. The project development goes through several phases, but assembling the program and concept are among the most important. Urbanistically, we had neighboring buildings with different heights and realities that we needed to correct and better integrate with our proposal. Our building is significant for the Cascais municipality, so it was essential to meet with the urban planning department to present our solution and reach a joint agreement. Urban planning was considering whether Loureiro Road (to the north) would become pedestrian-only, so we had to consider access constraints.

Who is the Green Plaza Carcavelos aimed at?

It is aimed at families, offering apartments of various sizes. Initially, it was a mixed-use project, with shops on the ground floor and residential units above. However, the neighboring commercial project Legrant prompted us to adapt the program to a purely residential one, offering apartments with various layouts.

Green Plaza Carcavelos offers a variety of apartment typologies. What are the main features that make them unique?

The project stands out in terms of real estate appreciation for several reasons. Firstly, we optimized and maximized the residential space, providing a greater number of apartments with excellent living conditions, solar exposure, and privacy. Considering the building’s layout, where the facades of the two structures are joined forming an angle of approximately 90°, we carefully studied the distribution of typologies throughout the building. This resulted in creating apartments with different living arrangements, some with private gardens, spacious balconies, and even private rooftop pools.

Furthermore, the special dynamic of the building, achieved through small movements in the exterior facades and balcony volumes, gives it a unique and attractive character. The main entrance is located on the North facade, predominantly where the bedrooms are situated, with the window openings organized in an almost random manner, attempting to add some movement to this facade, contrasting with the South-facing facades.

In what ways does the project stand out in terms of real estate appreciation?

The construction is expected to be completed before the second quarter of 2024, with only 3 apartments remaining for sale. These are spacious 4-bedroom apartments with ample outdoor areas. Inspired Orbit designed this project with a strong focus on sustainability at the beginning of 2020, sparking significant interest among buyers and investors from the outset. Learn more at fozterraces.pt

Could you share a bit about your role as an administrator at TENSAI Industria SA and explain how you reconcile this responsibility with your conviction in the importance of cultivating a strong culture and inspiring people?

The invitation extended to me by Mr. João Preto, which was a great honor, aimed at having me join the board of directors of Tensai and the associated group of companies, had two objectives. Firstly, to contribute my experience to the implementation of governance policies and deeper risk analysis at a time when the challenges of globalization have significant impacts on Tensai’s activities. Secondly, to contribute to the launch of Inspired Orbit, a real estate promotion company in Portugal.

Throughout my nearly 20-year professional career in banking in Portugal and abroad, I had the opportunity to closely interact with companies with strong values that were easily perceptible and mostly synonymous with success. Tensai Industria is a clear example of this, with values rooted in a solid work culture established by Mr. João Preto since the company’s inception—a culture I fully identify with, facilitating my integration.

Regardless of the role and responsibility each person has in the organization, my life philosophy is that each day is an opportunity to learn and share knowledge, to improve without fear of making mistakes, always giving our best with a concern for respecting and doing well to those around us, whether at home, on the street, or at work. I have been fortunate to interact with leaders who inspire me, and I strive to do the same.

How does the Tensai Group manage the need to maintain a strong and inspiring culture within its organization?

Tensai Industria is an organization with over 35 years of activity, characterized by easily identifiable values such as relationships and proximity, concern for the environment, trust, sustainability, modernity, efficiency, availability, innovation, and adaptability. It has a highly stable team of professionals, from the executive committee to administrative staff, production, or support services, all of whom play crucial roles. Above all, they act as guardians of Tensai’s values, with the responsibility to transmit them to newcomers.

It all begins with a recruitment process focused on these values, proximity, and support during the integration process, ongoing investment in continuous training, daily sharing of information and ideas, and regular celebration of achievements in an open and transparent manner. Challenges arise every day, but the key is to approach them with rigor and tranquility, gather as much information as possible, and then decide and follow through.

In your opinion, what is the role of clear communication in building a strong organizational culture? And how does the TENSAI Group approach this issue?

Good communication is essential in shaping the culture of companies and how they relate to all stakeholders—employees, customers, suppliers, partners, or public entities. Communication is closely tied to Tensai’s past, present, and future, whether through image, voice, or a simple facial expression. Although often seen as a responsibility of marketing departments, communication is everyone’s responsibility.

Tensai has also been growing in this area, being present on major social media platforms and various communication channels, showcasing products, testing procedures, recycling and zero-waste initiatives, the use of renewable energies, all focused on environmental protection and improving efficiency. The company promotes team-building and competition initiatives, encourages team participation in festive moments, and honors those who have contributed significantly to Tensai, like our freezer “Rita,” a tribute to a departed factory worker who will always be remembered as a Tensai example.

Inspired Orbit, despite being a newer and smaller entity, maintains an intense activity with various projects happening simultaneously. Communication is equally crucial here, following the same principles. Communication starts with each project, from the idea/creation phase with our partners and extends to the delivery of the final product to our customers.

How does your previous experience, especially as the founder and member of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Banco Único, shape your approach to the complexity of challenges faced by TENSAI?

Banco Único was a beautiful chapter in my life, undoubtedly marked by the people who trusted me to be part of the conception and foundation of the bank. I had the honor of working with Dr. João Figueiredo, and it was a learning experience. We formed a small group that, step by step, day by day, hour by hour, faced the challenge of establishing a bank from scratch in Mozambique, India, Portugal, South Africa, the United States, and the United Kingdom, with sacrifice and the support of my wife.

We aimed to create a different bank, focused on being unique and creating value for Mozambican society, shareholders, employees, customers, and partners. With the motto “Being Unique Changes Everything,” everything at Banco Único was meticulously thought out, anchored in relationships, innovative technology, a distinctive image, and branches that were experiential spaces for visitors. Over seven years, I got to know everyone who joined the project, a vast majority being local professionals eager for achievements.

The complexity in banking is high due to the sector’s responsibility in societies, the importance of checks and balances, risk anticipation and monitoring (credit, liquidity, interest rate, reputational, operational, etc.), governance, relationships with different stakeholders, local authorities, and international entities, communication care, and market relations. The management and balance of teams and customer relations are also crucial. In industrial and real estate activities, the complexity is not the same as in banking, but in my opinion, the principles are similar, and success factors are anchored in the same principles: easily understandable values, a strong, cohesive, and committed team, deep knowledge of the national and international market, strategies for market trends, research and development, and people management shaping short, medium, and long-term decisions.

How does the Tensai Group address the constant quest for innovation in its products to ensure a good sales and after-sales experience for its customers?

Tensai has been a leading SME for several years, primarily focused on exporting to around 80 countries, with a focus on geographically close markets. Tensai tests all its products rigorously, achieving very high satisfaction levels, and conducts reliability tests above the most demanding sector standards. The company does not compete on price but on quality, reliability, and innovation. Tensai highly values stable relationships with its partners and welcomes challenges.

In early 2024, what challenges do you identify as the most significant for TENSAI?

The national and international context is highly uncertain and volatile. We are experiencing a pandemic that has changed all our lives, affecting logistics and production chains. At the end of this period, we are witnessing an inflationary peak that we haven’t seen in a long time, impacting monetary policies with the traditional recipe of raising interest rates and reducing liquidity to cool consumption. Now, we anticipate a “soft landing,” but it’s uncertain if it will be an effective reception. International conflicts have enormous impacts on distribution chains, suppliers, and customers. Tensai’s major challenges are assessing supply chains accurately to maintain production with quality and price, continuing to diversify product lines, and seeking new markets.

As a founding member of the ‘Gorongosa Business Club,’ how does your connection to the Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique influence Inspired Orbit’s projects in creating integrated green spaces in its properties?

Nature is a common good that we all share, and we have the obligation to care for it. However, it is an almost intangible asset in the sense that very few can measure and appreciate nature and what it provides. Perhaps that’s why there is a weak global awareness of its importance and what should be done to preserve it. In some parts of the world where pollution has reached extreme levels and is a daily presence, this perception might be changing. In our society, weather phenomena are the most frequent reminders of the issue, but they are still seen as isolated events.

I grew up in the countryside, in close contact with nature, and for the past 27 years, I have been involved with Mozambique, developing a passion for animal life and conservation. I was part of the founding of the “Gorongosa Business Club,” whose primary goal was to showcase to the business world in Mozambique everything being done in the restoration of the Gorongosa National Park, with both direct and indirect impacts on improving the living conditions of local populations. It was an honor and immense satisfaction to witness the success of the project and everything that could be achieved with the involvement of many companies in the Gorongosa National Park, notably JAT Constrói, a company owned by Mr. João Preto, who shares the same passion.

Green spaces are a hallmark of the projects we have under construction, and we strive to have them consistently present in both quantity and quality. We draw inspiration from the concept of integrating these spaces, with South African architecture serving as an excellent example.

In conclusion, what advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to leadership positions, especially in building a career in dynamic sectors such as finance and real estate?

Response: Always seek knowledge and organizations that value knowledge-sharing. Don’t focus solely on remuneration; don’t hesitate to ask questions or take anything for granted. Be curious, even about things that may not be directly related to your responsibilities or field. Look for innovation, pay attention to small details, gather as many contributions as possible, work as a team, be highly attentive to communication, don’t shy away from responsibility as making mistakes is part of the process. Embrace uncertainty as the only certainty we have, but never stop making informed decisions. Always foster positive relationships around you, if possible, travel, meet as many people as you can, and finally, as the late Raul Solnado used to say, ‘please be happy.’

The real estate market in Portugal has been experiencing increasing demand driven by foreign investment. The climate and security are highly valued factors. What is your view on foreign investment in Portugal, considering the end of the Golden Visa program?

Our country offers a very attractive quality of life for the foreign market, due to its location in the European market, excellent weather, safety, rich gastronomy, and an open society that welcomes guests warmly. The end of the Golden Visas program will not change any of this. In the real estate sector, our focus is on continuously improving the quality of our projects to meet the demands of clients.

Does Inspired Orbit prioritize the integration of green spaces in residential projects? How is this theme addressed?

Nature and energy efficiency are highly valued in our group. For example, Tensai Indústria is almost self-sufficient with 3,800 photovoltaic panels, curbing the release of 600 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. Green spaces are mandatory in our real estate projects because they convey tranquility, freshness, and well-being.

What types of projects does Inspired Orbit develop, and how does it differentiate itself in the real estate market?

Inspired Orbit designs, develops, and promotes residential as well as health and education projects. We begin with a careful market study to identify the best locations for the product we aim to develop. Our projects result from extensive collaboration with partners who understand our DNA well.

What are the most important aspects to consider when designing residential buildings?

First and foremost, a real estate project should be well integrated into its surroundings – the neighborhood, parish, and city. It should be oriented to meet the needs of clients, providing ample light, storage space and incorporating lightweight, elegant, and modern materials while integrating as many green spaces as possible.

What are the most notable examples of residential projects already developed by Inspired Orbit?

We prefer not to highlight any specific projects; our inspiration comes from the satisfaction of our clients and creating value for the company and stakeholders.

What are the main challenges faced during the realization of these projects?

The licensing process is often time-consuming due to various requirements and inertia from certain areas in some municipalities and public infrastructure companies. Additionally, there might be some lack of preparation from project teams regarding local constraints. A proficient project team with in-depth knowledge of urban regulations is crucial to ensure smooth construction after obtaining the necessary licenses. The construction partner is equally important, as planning challenges require high-quality teams that reflect in the final project’s quality.

Regarding the Green Plaza Carcavelos project, does this venture mark a new phase of investments in the south, or will the concentration of assets remain mainly in the north of the country?

O Green Plaza Carcavelos foi uma oportunidade que surgiu no melhor momento, depois de consolidada a posição na região do Porto era momento de alargar a atividade a outras regiões, dispersando o risco e testar a nossa capacidade de crescimento.

Inspired Orbit has a history of projects in the Porto region. What led you to choose Carcavelos as the location for this new development? What were the decisive factors for location and market opportunities?

Inspired Orbit seeks to work in mature markets or those with growth potential. Cascais is a municipality with vibrant activity, and Carcavelos has strong growth potential within the region. It offers everything at hand within a short distance.

Could you describe some unique characteristics that Carcavelos has to offer as a location?

Green Plaza Carcavelos boasts an excellent location with top schools and universities nearby, fantastic green spaces like the Alagoa garden, Carcavelos beach, a train station, easy access to the A5 highway, complete shopping facilities, and a traditional and welcoming neighborhood. Having all of this within a 1.5 km radius is truly unique.

What are the main advantages of living in Carcavelos compared to other areas in the greater Lisbon area?

The main advantage is tranquility and having everything conveniently close.

What is the architectural concept adopted in the condominium? What amenities and infrastructure are offered to residents within this development?

Green Plaza Carcavelos is designed to the south and east, featuring abundant green spaces and fantastic common areas, including a swimming pool and a social area for sports and gatherings. It is an ideal place for a safe and peaceful family life.

What are the expectations for real estate appreciation in the Carcavelos region in the coming years?

The Carcavelos neighborhood is undergoing changes, becoming highly attractive with an excellent cost-to-quality-of-life ratio.

What is the long-term vision for the company, and what are the next steps after the completion of the condominium in Carcavelos?

Inspired Orbit is preparing another project in the north and will soon be seeking more opportunities between Lisbon and Cascais in the south.

An area recognized for its beaches, proximity to renowned educational centers such as NOVA School of Business and Economics, traditional green places like Quinta da Alagoa and plenty of outdoor sports options.

Wake up and enjoy what nature has prepared for you. Explore the neighborhood, the green areas, local shops, take a walk by the beach, or simply relax under the sun by the poolside.

In this place, everything comes together to inspire you.

Natural and urban, historic and modern. Reserved and cosmopolitan. The unique features of the region shine in this privileged location. Carcavelos has everything for you to enjoy life at your own pace. From private gardens to spacious interiors, each area offers the security and privacy you seek in a private condominium, along with various amenities and facilities such as a garden, outdoor pool, and fully equipped multi-purpose room. Here, tranquility blends with natural style.

Discover this project at greenplazacarcavelos.pt

Project signature: Fragmentos de Arquitectura.

The core of the project is the interior garden, responsible for bridging the different levels and bringing the various living spaces closer to nature, enhancing the sense of community and well-being.

Designed at ground level, the garden allows for the planting of large trees and includes several green spaces that enrich the environment and make it unique in its neighborhood. This breaks contact with the hectic street life, providing greater intimacy and comfort to its residents.

The plot’s privileged location dictates the spatial organization of the apartments, maintaining coherence between floors: private areas facing east and social areas facing west, allowing each inhabitant to enjoy both environments: the street and the garden.

The permeability between interior and exterior spaces is enhanced by large openings, accentuating the feeling of expanded living space in the living rooms and kitchens. Balconies and terraces filled with vegetation create a unique and organic outdoor space, breaking away from the rigidity of the constructed elements and highlighting the prevalence of greenery.

Classic, noble, and robust materials like precast concrete and wood were chosen for the main entrances. The contrast between light and shadow is further enhanced by textures and treatments applied to the concrete, according to each facade element.

For more information about this project, visit fozterraces.pt

Let’s talk about the history, specialties and services offered by CSSC.

CSSC – Santa Catarina Health House has been in operation since 1932. Its target audience includes individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders across all age groups. CSSC provides care through a multidisciplinary team of experts in this field, incorporating various areas of expertise, including psychiatry, child psychiatry, psychology, specialized nursing, neurology, General and Family Medicine, occupational therapy, among others. Services are offered in different settings, such as specialized and subspecialty consultations, inpatient care, and day hospital/psychosocial rehabilitation center, all catering to different age groups. Within its consultations, CSSC’s activities encompass assessment, diagnosis, and the formulation of therapeutic strategies for mental health disorders, as well as interventions aimed at promoting mental health and preventing illness. Regarding inpatient care, CSSC offers services for both long-term residents and acute cases. The long-term resident segment typically deals with neurodegenerative disorders (dementia) in older patients, while the acute segment provides treatment for various acute psychiatric conditions, regardless of age.

For the new CSSC, there are plans to establish initiatives related to research and education, including the creation of a “Training and Research Department” with connections to academia and educational institutions, both nationally and internationally. Notable investments are reserved for virtual reality applications, particularly in the areas of anxiety/phobias and neurocognitive remediation for dementia. Additionally, there will be a new department for neuromodulation, encompassing neurofeedback, biofeedback, and transcranial magnetic stimulation, which will complement the existing electroconvulsive therapy services.

What is the importance and impact of the new project that IOL Saude is specifically developing for CSSC?

The CSSC has been constrained by its physical structure. Space limitations have prevented the expansion of services or the creation of new ones to address current challenges and ensure alignment with best practices and scientific knowledge. It is a beautiful period house surrounded by magnificent gardens, but it remains architecture that doesn’t meet the demands and needs of the present and the future. The new project that IOL is developing overcomes these obstacles and, above all, ensures that the high quality of mental healthcare that characterizes the clinical project of CSSC is aligned with identical parameters of excellence at the structural level where they are provided.

What are the benefits of integrating outdoor spaces in psychiatric clinics?

The concern for integrating outdoor spaces into the treatment of psychiatric issues is not a recent development. An example of this is the Conde de Ferreira Hospital, inaugurated in 1883, which was built on a spacious estate with each ward having access to extensive gardens. Today, the benefits of connecting with nature and fresh air for health are undeniable. In fact, the “Biophilia Theory” argues that the relationship with nature is fundamental for the well-being and physical and mental health of human beings.

The new CSSC seeks to take advantage from all the knowledge that has been produced in this field, not only for the benefit of patients but also for employees and family members. There will be designated areas for a variety of occupational and rehabilitation activities, such as physical activity, gardening, and reading. These spaces will also serve as a welcoming area for receiving visits from friends and family or for breaks for staff members.

What are the key architectural elements that can contribute to the creation of an optimal therapeutic environment for CSSC?

In addition to the previously mentioned green spaces, it’s important to consider aspects such as colors, textures, dimensions, materials, views, among others, so that the interior spaces also promote recovery and well-being and are tailored to the different activities/interventions they are intended for. In the field that CSSC is dedicated to, ensuring patient safety is essential, with a range of distinctive measures, including windows with limited opening, ensuring secure and effective access control, among others.

What are the main challenges that need to be considered in the architecture?

One of the key challenges is to transform a clinical, cold, and impersonal hospital environment into a warm and welcoming one that feels like home. This transformation must be achieved without compromising the medical needs and patient safety, ensuring the effectiveness of interventions. It’s also important to create differentiated and autonomous spaces and circuits within the same structure, allowing for more specific actions. That’s why each floor of the new CSSC has a living and dining room in addition to all the shared common services on the ground floor.

This is an innovative facility that brings together various healthcare specialties in Portugal. To what extent can it contribute to positioning our country at the forefront of national and international best practices?

CSSC has been an innovative project for 91 years. What we aim to do is nothing more than to honor this legacy and give it a new dimension with the capabilities provided by the new structure. With a facility that allows services to align with current and emerging challenges and the assurance of an excellent technical team, the conditions are in place for us to position ourselves at the forefront of the best national and international practices, forging our own path, as we have been doing since 1932.