GAUG - "Gabinete" (or office) of Architecture and Urbanism of Guimarães - was founded in 2025, born from a shared vision of architectural practice grounded in a collaborative relationship between architect and client. Rigour, Communication, and Trust form the foundations on which we develop the Creativity of our projects and our commitment to delivering a service of excellence.

The starting point for this challenge is Guimarães, a city with a unique heritage that instills in us a sense of responsibility and inspires us every day. It is here that we find the balance between belonging and ambition, and it is from here that we intend to project ourselves to the world.

Our VISION

Architecture emerges from a thoughtful attention to people, place, time, and available resources. Each project represents a balance between aspiration and reality - between what is imagined and what is realised.

The quality of a project is measured not only by the space it creates,but also by the experience of imagining it, building it, and living in it - we want each Client to feel that the process of creating architecture is as rewarding as the space it ultimately produces.

We work closely with our Clients and Partners, gathering and providing information in a timely manner while respecting their needs and objectives, so that every decision is guided by intention and consideration. We do not simply seek to do more - we seek to do better.

FOUNDERS

Tiago Vasconcelos graduated in Architecture from the Autonomous Department of Architecture of the University of Minho (DAAUM) in 2007. He completed an internship at the Irisarri-Piñera SLNE studio in Vigo, Spain, between 2007 and 2008, and has practiced professionally ever since - first as a freelance architect from 2008 to 2011, and later as the founding architect of the Projecto2R architecture practice until 2025.

His professional practice has been primarily focused on the rehabilitation and refurbishment of existing buildings, as well as on the exploration and development of housing programmes.

Tiago Abreu is an economist with a degree and postgraduate qualification in Financial Analysis from the Faculty of Economics of the University of Porto. Over nearly 20 years, he developed his career in investment banking, risk management, and financial markets, and held the position of Director at Barclays Bank in London until 2025. He worked with clients such as banks, investment funds, and sovereign entities, and led the acquisition and sale of large portfolios.

His passion for architecture and interest in real estate led him to GAUG as he returned to Portugal, seeking to apply his experience in a different context. He is responsible for the firm's financial management and contributes to its development and strategic planning.