Joana Varajão completed her M. Arch. degree at the University of Porto (Portugal) in 2013. Her thesis focused on “Social Space: Reflection, Representation, Transformation”, asserting the connection between urban appropriation and social transformation.

She was co-editor of the 10th edition of Dédalo magazine, through which she sought to question contemporary architectural practices, experimenting with new public space approaches and mediation strategies between architects, inhabitants and governmental structures. She has also worked as a volunteer for the Arrebita!Porto project, an experimental method of refurbishment which took place in the historic center of Porto, relying on a collaborative development model.

Currently she works as an architect at RA\\ Architecture & Design Studio, Lisbon.