Set in Porto, Portugal, a city abundant in decaying rooms in its historic centre, Public Works: Performing the Backstage transforms the processes of demolition, construction, and reconstruction into spatial experiences. Located beneath the iconic Bridge of St Luis, the selected site is embedded in the heart of Porto and is presently in severe disrepair. The project commences with the quarrying of granite from the existing dilapidated structures on-site, which is then repaired and reused in future constructions.

Introducing three primary elements: The Backstage, Re-use Looms, and a Cork Mason Yard, each operating on varying timescales, Public Works re-envisions the architect's role as that of a Playwright. Designing dynamic performances of construction, it addresses the shifting needs of Porto. Through Public Works, we experience the city as a living, breathing assemblage undergoing perpetual change.