Founded in 2006 in Porto, with a branch in Lisbon, the MJARC Architects studio is dedicated to creating sustainable architecture, employing environmentally responsible materials and construction methods, and promoting the integration of nature into urban spaces, thereby contributing to biodiversity and well-being.

With a holistic approach and meticulous attention to detail, we combine low- and high-tech solutions to reduce the carbon footprint without compromising aesthetics, designing enduring and timeless projects.

We believe that excellence arises from the comprehensive management of each project and the collaboration of multidisciplinary teams, where trust, communication, and collective spirit translate into the quality of the architectural design.

FOUNDERS

Maria João Andrade

Co-founder and Partner of MJARC Arquitetos Associados – Project Director / Senior Design Manager in Architecture

Maria João Andrade serves as Project Director and Senior Design Manager, bringing 19 years of experience in Architecture and Engineering, with expertise in Project Management, Development, Architectural Design, and Client Relationship Management. She holds a degree in Architecture from ESAP, Porto (2006), and is the co-founder of the studio MJARC Arquitetos Associados, established in 2006 alongside architect Ricardo Cordeiro.

Throughout her career, she has overseen projects from the competition phase through to completion, demonstrating strong skills in team management, engineering solutions, construction issue resolution, and time management.

Her experience encompasses residential, commercial, and real estate development projects, with a particular focus on sustainability and the implementation of innovative solutions.

National and International Recognition

Over the course of her career, Maria João has received numerous international architecture awards, highlighting the quality and innovation of her work:

2018

Casa Vale do Douro – Finalist, World Architecture Festival, Amsterdam

2021

Casa Vale do Douro and Nordeal Hospital Unit, Mirandela – Awarded the 40 Under 40 Prize by the European Center, Athens

Casa Vale do Douro – Winner, World Architecture Community Award.

2022

Hotel Vínico Douro – Finalist, Architizer Awards, Nova Iorque, and World Architecture Festival, Lisboa.

2023

Casa Saramagayo – Finalist World Architecture Festival, Singapura.

2024

Riverside Project – Winner Loop Design Awards, People’s Choice Award.

Riverside Project – Winner Muse Design Awards, Architectural Design – Residential.

2025

Wood House – Winner Loop Design Awards, Small Architecture

Ricardo Cordeiro

Co-founder and Partner of MJARC Arquitetos Associados – Project Director / Senior Design Manager in Architecture

Ricardo Cordeiro serves as Project Director and Senior Design Manager, bringing extensive experience in Architecture and Engineering, with expertise in Project Management, Development, Architectural Design, and Client Relationship Management.

He is a certified Qualified Expert (PQII) by ADENE (2009), holds a certification in nZEB Design (2016), and obtained LEED Certification (2025). He graduated in Architecture from ESAP, Porto (2004), and co-founded the studio MJARC Arquitetos Associados in 2006 in partnership with architect Maria João Andrade.

Throughout his career, he has successfully overseen projects from the competition phase to completion, demonstrating strong skills in team management, engineering solutions, construction issue resolution, and time management.

His experience encompasses residential, commercial, and real estate development projects, with a particular focus on sustainability and the implementation of innovative architectural solutions.

National and International Recognition

Ricardo Cordeiro has received numerous international architecture awards, highlighting the quality and innovation of his work.

2018

Casa Vale do Douro – Finalist, World Architecture Festival, Amsterdam

2021

Casa Vale do Douro and Nordeal Hospital Unit in Mirandela – Awarded the 40 Under 40 Prize by European Center, Atenas.

Casa Vale do Douro – Winner World Architecture Community Award.

2022

Hotel Vínico Douro – Finalist, Architizer Awards, Nova Iorque, and World Architecture Festival, Lisboa.

2023

Casa Saramagayo – Finalist World Architecture Festival, Singapura.

2024

Riverside Project – Winner Loop Design Awards, People’s Choice Award.

Riverside Project – Winner Muse Design Awards, Architectural Design – Residential.

2025

Wood House -Winner Loop Design Awards, Small Architecture