The Matadouro slaughterhouse is located in Campanhã and was previously one of the area’s biggest economic contributors. The slaughterhouse was closed in 1990, after which the FC Porto Stadium, metro station and highway were constructed nearby, causing the cluster of buildings to be isolated from the rest of the city.

Japanese firm Kengo Kuma & Associates and Portugese firm OODA collaborated for an international competition that sought proposals for the space in order to “re-establish the site's importance in the city's cultural, business and social network”. Kengo Kuma and OODA stated, "With this proposal we intend to reactivate, reinvent and engage the local history and memory of the city. In order to achieve this goal, it is essential to create a structure that will have a strong sense of presence from afar.”

The 25,000 square-metre abattoir will be redeveloped into a new public space precinct that includes exhibition and performance spaces, art galleries, cafes, an extensive library, office and artist residences, a gym, and a public plaza. The architects seek to respect the history of the building by integrating the heritage design into the new public space, establishing the complex as a part of the local community.

A vegetation-lined walkway will offer access to the building and provide spectacular views of the city, in addition to this, two public plazas will provide enticing entry points, which can also be used for public events.

A sweeping canopy will be constructed to stretch over the entirety of the site, uniting the complex under one roof.  The canopy will be made from ceramic tiles and glass panels that act as a “second skin”, allowing for light to filter through the space while still ensuring that the area is protected all year around. The tiles will feature a striking red hue, creating a visual connection between the precinct and the surrounding local buildings.

A pedestrian bridge will connect the Matadoura to the adjoining FC stadium and the metro station, allowing for the precinct to provide an exciting public space for people to visit before and after games.

The ambitious project will seek to restore the abandoned building and create a public space for visitors to engage as a community.