One Energy #20 — Edise: New chapter for a Rio icon
Some buildings are part of a city’s landscape. Others become part of its history.
More than 50 years after its inauguration, Edise — Petrobras’ headquarters in downtown Rio de Janeiro — is beginning a new chapter.
Closed since 2021, the 29-story, 184,000 m² building has undergone its first major renovation since opening in 1974, with investments of approximately R$1.3 billion. The renovation and gradual reoccupation are expected to continue into early 2028, when Edise will have around 6,000 workstations.
But the project goes beyond new electrical systems, air conditioning, glass panels and workspaces.
The original architectural identity conceived by Roberto Luís Gandolfi remains central to the renovation. The gardens designed by Roberto Burle Marx are being restored, the building’s distinctive brise-soleils have returned, and spaces connecting Edise with downtown Rio are also being brought back to life.
Praça Monsenhor will once again be open to the public, while the project also includes a new ground-floor entrance, a multipurpose space and the revitalization of the Santa Teresa Tram Terminal.
What has changed after more than five decades? What has been preserved? And what will the new Edise mean for Petrobras and downtown Rio?
In Issue 20 of One Energy Magazine, Rafael Bortoloti looks at the history, architecture and transformation behind one of Petrobras’ most recognizable buildings.
This article was produced by Westhon Media for One Energy News.