Originally built at the end of the 19th century, the two traditional granaries on granite bases later became a dovecot, when a roof was built to join them. Finally, the space between both granaries was used for drying cereals. Following a project by Tiago do Vale Architects, the Espigueiro-Pombal do Cruzeiro, in Ponte de Lima, has been rebuilt and transformed, to now become a fusion of tree house and contemplative refuge. Its execution was not without its problems. Without adequate maintenance for many years, the wood had quickly decayed, but, nevertheless, it enabled the full documentation of the design and constructive techniques of the building as it was. The Espigueiro-Pombal do Cruzeiro is now a sanctuary among the treetops, an iconic shape within the Minho countryside. It was recently distinguished with the third award at the International Design Awards in the Sustainable Architecture category.
