SOPHIA is a restoration project for a pizzeria and bar covering approximately 230m², located in the former industrial area of LXFactory in Alcântara, Lisbon. Originally a 19th-century textile factory, this complex has been revitalized and transformed into a hub of art, design, gastronomy, and innovation, where independent shops, restaurants, creative offices, and event spaces coexist. The pizzeria is situated within these commercial galleries and comprises a spacious interior where metal pillars punctuate the space with a regular rhythm.

The brand’s premise was a youthful, urban language that coexists with an informal and welcoming environment. With this in mind, the aim was to reinterpret the traditional pizzeria concept by creating a disruptive design through the choice of materials, colors, and furniture.

The starting point of the project was the creation of an L-shaped production line, strategically positioned along one of the longitudinal boundaries of the space. This layout respects the existing structure while efficiently organizing the various functions of the restaurant. This operational area concentrates all technical areas and infrastructure. At one end, near the main façade, there is an open cooking area, with the pizza oven and assembly area, inspired by Neapolitan pizza-making, taking a prominent role, aligned with the restaurant entrance. This cooking area is entirely clad in the same materiality as the kitchen equipment, bringing stainless steel to all countertops and surfaces.

Continuing from this space, there is an enclosed block for storage and the dishwashing area. This volume connects with the bar, consisting of two stainless steel counters that mirror the industrial look of the kitchen. Along the rear façade, this operational line ends with a second volume, which houses a technical area and a restroom for customers. The two opaque blocks are covered with fabric panels designed by textile designer Constança Entrudo, overlaid with transparent corrugated polyurethane sheets. The hand-drawn abstract floral pattern, created specifically for the restaurant, redefines the concept of traditional wallpaper, giving the project a unique plasticity and identity.

The customer area takes advantage of the main space, where pink and orange acrylic tables are arranged. The translucent materiality of these pieces creates plays of light, color, and reflections on the surrounding surfaces, especially on the continuous terrazzo flooring, marked by the geometric rhythm of white trapezoidal stone pieces.

Outside, the terrace seeks continuity with the interior space, creating a cohesive atmosphere through the fabric of the shading screens and furniture designed specifically for the restaurant.