Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex

Fortaleza, CE, Brazil

Add To Collection

Other Projects by Architectus S/S

Add To Collection

Rachel de Queiroz Park

Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex

Fortaleza, CE, Brazil

Firm

Architectus S/S

Type

Hospitality + Sport › Restaurant
Cultural › Observation Tower
Landscape + Planning › Urban Green Space

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2022

SIZE

3000 sqft - 5000 sqft

BUDGET

$5M - 10M

Sea and River. Freshwater and saltwater. The meeting of the river and the sea in the Sabiaguaba region of Fortaleza, Ceará, in Brazil, offers one of the city’s most breathtaking landscapes. The guardians of this natural beauty—the traditional families of Sabiaguaba—have long advocated for the creation of a gastronomic center that would harness the region’s tourism and landscape potential, protect local fauna and flora, and generate jobs and income for the native community (a term they proudly identify with).

Born from the community’s efforts, the Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex sits on the banks of the Cocó River, near its mouth. The building features a simple, semi-buried design, both to take advantage of the land’s steep slope and to preserve the uninterrupted view of the landscape.

Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed on the upper floor by a plaza and observation point, complete with garden areas and benches for contemplation. The competition for the most beautiful sunset in Fortaleza is fierce, but one thing is certain: this spot in the Gastronomic Complex is among the most coveted.

Using ramps or stairs, visitors can descend to the ground floor, where a large platform, intentionally suspended above the natural terrain, adapts to tidal variations and allows for the recovery of native vegetation. This area houses 20 kiosks, each equipped for preparing traditional Sabiaguaba cuisine. With fresh fish, shellfish, and seafood, the licensed vendors—all members of the native Sabiaguaba community—prepare iconic dishes such as steamed oysters, fish with shrimp sauce, coconut rice, and more.

To enhance thermal comfort, shaded areas were incorporated into service areas and access points through the use of canopies. Additionally, retractable canvas covers were proposed for the seating areas.

From the outset, ensuring visual harmony between the building and the natural landscape was a priority. Thus, in addition to the decision to partially bury the structure, the project favored materials with a natural and durable aesthetic, such as ecological wood, which was used for both the flooring and the louvers—key elements of the facade.

To keep the history, traditions, and culture of the Sabiaguaba families alive, a museum was integrated among the kiosk modules. The Sabiaguaba Roots Memory Cultural Center preserves the native way of life, with part of its collection consisting of artifacts donated by local residents.

The proposal also embraced ecotourism, incorporating a pier for passenger embarkation and disembarkation for the Cocó River boat tour. Over time, the pier naturally became a leisure space for bathers, especially on weekends.

Centuries-old traditions, authentic flavors, and the preservation of nature — all set to the soothing song of thrushes at the Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex.

Product Spec Sheet

Were your products used?

Join as a manufacturer to add your products.

Collaborating Firms

Was your firm involved? Add it now.

Team

Were you involved? Add yourself.

Keep Exploring Architizer by Creating a Free Account or Logging in.

Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex

Fortaleza, CE, Brazil

Other Projects by Architectus S/S

Rachel de Queiroz Park

Sabiaguaba Environmental and Gastronomic Complex

Fortaleza, CE, Brazil

Product Spec Sheet

Collaborating Firms

Team