Leica restores historic commercial building

The German brand Leica has officially inaugurated its first Flagship store in the Iberian Peninsula last December, in downtown Porto in a historic building, located at Sá da Bandeira Street.

The lower levels of the building are intended for commercial activities. Meanwhile, the upper levels will be preserved and restored to provide residential housing.

Leica decided to rehabilitate the entire building and thus contribute to the revitalization efforts in the historic centre of Porto.

Many historic commercial districts in Porto are becoming the preferred locations for many residents to work and live. 

The revitalization of historic downtown has been established as public policy by the municipality. 

Rehabilitation means more jobs as it is typical that 60% to 70% of expenses will go toward labour costs. Besides, the rehabilitation of a historic building is often less costly than new construction and also offers a quicker occupancy time than new construction.