# Angular Concrete Monastery Extensions Alvaro Siza Adds to the Monastery of Leça do Balio By Amy Duong | Published 2024-06-28 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/monastery-of-lea-do-balio References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2024/06/27/alvaro-siza-leca-de-balio-extension/)  Portuguese architect Alvaro Siza added a [new extension](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/t-house-extension) to the Monastery of Leça do Balio which is located in Porto with the goal of creating a new landmark for the area. It is an angular structure and is complete in a crisp white palette. It is designed by Siza with Sidonio Pardal to form more space for visitors at the site. It is all enclosed by four [concrete walls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/residential-project-in-tokyo) with geometric buildings and a spacious gravel courtyard. Siza speaks to Dezeen about the design project, stating "The addition wants to adjust to the history and actual atmosphere of the monastery without the pretence of innovative arrogance. The [white concrete used in the chapel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chapel-of-the-risen) reflects its position of great autonomy." Image Credit: Alexandre Delmar ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.6/10 - Popularity: 20% | Activity: 2% | Freshness: 25% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Geometric Architecture:** Architectural designs featuring bold geometric shapes enhance visual interest while providing functional forms. - **Modern Heritage Extensions:** Integrating contemporary designs with historical sites rejuvenates cultural landmarks and attracts modern visitors. - **Minimalist Concrete Designs:** The use of white concrete in modern architecture offers a minimalist aesthetic that emphasizes clean lines and simplicity. ### Who This Affects Most - **Architecture:** Architectural firms can explore blending modern and historical elements to create visually appealing and functional spaces. - **Tourism:** Enhancing historical sites with modern extensions can boost tourist interest and provide enriched visitor experiences. - **Construction:** The construction industry benefits from innovations in concrete technology and techniques, enabling more versatile and durable structures. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Geometric Three-Story Museum Expansions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lvaro-siza-wing.md) - [Orange Tonal Concrete Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/colien-house.md) - [Minimalist Wooden Figures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimalist-wooden-figures.md) - [Angular Church Matte Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/red-church.md) - [Fluted Concrete-Added Chapels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/st-marys-coptic-church.md) - [Red Concrete Museums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vila-do-bispo-museum.md) - [Historical Building Angular Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fraserlivingstone.md) - [Concrete Plinth Spa Extensions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balnea-spa.md) - [Lighthouse-Functioning Concrete Structures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/concrete-pavilion.md)