This project investigates the traces within artifacts, from objects to architecture, as a constant dialogue. Initially inspired by the palaeolithic engravings discovered in the Côa Valley near Porto, the project embarks on a journey to explore what traces mean on made artifacts, ranging from surface-level traces to architectural traces.

The site is Matosinhos oil refinery, a 290-hectare disused oil refinery north of Porto, which was in use for 50 years. Before the ten-year master plan starts, there will be a four-year time frame for the decontamination phase.

The proposed architecture performs within this four-year timeframe, dealing with soil investigation, excavation, and encapsulation of contaminated materials. Buildings will emerge as the soils are being cleaned and used for rammed earth construction.

As the end of the fossil fuel era approaches, Matosinhos oil refinery is a site that represents our time and generation. The proposed architecture is built up with decontaminated soil, and the buildings will act as boundaries of the site, marking the fossil fuel era. Over time, fragments of these buildings will be left on-site, a continuous reminder of the history of the site.