Estufa Fria, Lisbon

Estufa Fria is a greenhouse complex in Edward VII Park, arranged as three connected garden areas. Its unusual name reflects the absence of mechanical heating: timber slats moderate sunlight and help shield the plants from temperature extremes. The original section covers about 8,100 square metres and contains azaleas and camellias gathered from around the world.

A tropical house of about 3,000 square metres grows coffee and mangifera, while a separate succulent garden holds cacti and aloe. Small lakes, cascades, and sculpture give the interior a garden-like character. The project opened in 1933, designed by Raul Carapinha, and was built beside a disused basalt quarry where a spring had been found.

The entrance porch, lake, and large hall came with a later redesign by Francisco Keil do Amaral. After a major structural renovation, the complex reopened in April 2011.