Casa do Comum, A cultural hub in Bairro Alto.

In this article I would like to talk about a vibrant and multi-faceted space I often visit and participate in. Found in the Lisbon neibourghood of Bairro Alto, it is a space dedicated to books, visual arts, music and a sense of community.

Founded last october, the ethos of Casa do Comum is rooted in the belief that life should be lived at a slower pace, with a focus on meaningful connection and shared experiences, reflected in every aspect of this location, from its carefully curated selection of books to its cozy reading nooks and communal spaces.

It is a cultural hub, a place where art, music, and literature come together to enrich the lives of those who visit. From intimate literary readings to lively musical performances, Casa do Comum offers a diverse array of events and activities designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. Activities such as group readings, gallery art exhibitions, cinema, live music performance and parties all take place in its 3 different floors.

At its core, Casa do Comum is a celebration of community, a community of readers, writers, artists, and thinkers who come together to share their love of books and culture more broadly. It is a place where strangers become friends, where ideas are exchanged, and where connections are forged that transcend the boundaries of language and culture, with a commitment is fostering a sense of belonging among all who walk through its doors.

I personally find that this space can be seen as a successful example of a space that is able to connect people in a way that feels natural, welcoming and friendly. Although this location is focused on community-making primarily for those who are involved in the arts, I believe that some of these ideas can be applied and transferred to other community-creating spaces, for example those dedicated to immigrants.