In recent years, the center of São Paulo has undergone a veritable metamorphosis. After all, thanks to the retrofit process – the modernization and requalification of old buildings – the region is being revitalized, attracting new residents and businesses.
With improvements that include electrical, plumbing and accessibility upgrades, retrofitting aims to extend the useful life of buildings, adapting them to contemporary demands and promoting urban sustainability. So, if you’ve always wanted to understand what this buzzword is all about, check it out below.
But first, the Requalifica Centro program
The approval of Law 17.577/2021, known as the Retrofit Law, was a milestone for the revitalization of downtown São Paulo. This is because, through the Requalifica Centro program, the city government began to offer tax and financial incentives, such as IPTU exemption for three years and ISS reduction for retrofit works.
In the region, it is estimated that around 3,000 buildings are eligible for the process, which contributes to:
- Reducing the idleness of buildings;
- Attracting new residents and businesses;
- Promoting sustainability by reusing existing structures;
- Preserving the city’s historical and architectural heritage.
Since the program was launched, several projects have already been approved, generating thousands of new residential and commercial units.
However, challenges such as gentrification and the lack of social housing in some projects are still pointed out by experts as points of attention.
Emblematic examples of retrofitting in the center
Renata Sampaio Ferreira Building
Previous use: Commercial building.
Update: Cultural and residential complex with apartments, restaurant, swimming pool and event spaces.
Highlight: First retrofit completed by Requalifica Centro, preserving original architectural elements.
📍Rua Araújo, 216
Virgínia Building
Previous use: Residential/commercial.
Update: 119 modern residential units, stores on the first floor and a rooftop restaurant.
Highlight: Sustainability and reuse of infrastructure, with public subsidy.
📍 197 Martins Fontes Street
Residence Jacques Pilon
Previous use: Commercial building (called the Irradiation Building).
Update: Transformed into a modern residential building with 161 apartments ranging from 19 m² to 41 m², equipped and furnished. Includes common areas such as a gym, lounge, communal laundry and terrace.
Highlight: Retrofit project awarded the Master Real Estate Award 2020. It preserves the original façade signed by architect Jacques Pilon while modernizing the interior with efficient systems and anti-noise windows.
📍 101 Senador Queirós Avenue
Basilio 177
Previous use: Corporate headquarters of the former Telesp.
Update: 274 units and more than 60 different types of residential apartments with preserved Art Deco design.
Highlight: Project by the renowned Ramos de Azevedo office.
📍Rua Basílio da Gama, 177
Brigadeiro Building
Previous use: Commercial.
Update: Modernized with thermoacoustic solutions, large balconies and better natural lighting.
Highlight: Combines urban functionality with contemporary aesthetics.
📍 Avenida Brigadeiro Luís Antônio, 402
These projects demonstrate how retrofitting is shaping the future of downtown São Paulo, promoting a harmonious coexistence between modernity and historic preservation.