at a glance

the building remained empty for the next 26 years, and as a result of the abandonment experienced significant decay, without any investment or maintenance undertaken, until in 2006 the istituto europeo di design (ied - european design institute) opbtained permission to undertake extensive refurbishments on the neglected sturcture.

under the leadership of architect azo azevedo the buidling was brought back to life. in 2010 the ied moved into the building, under much protest by the local community, who objected the plan of the townhall to rent out the space, due to fears that it could change the quiet and idyllic nature of their neighborhood.

the institute is highly regarded with numerous faculties operating in canada, spain and  italy - offers a wide range of courses from its urca campus, located on avenida joao luis alves, and has been successfully maintaining this beautiful piece of carioca history.