Las Arenas wins Civic Trust Awards

Las Arenas in Barcelona has been awarded a 2012 Civic Trust Award.

Civic Trust awards are given to projects that make an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the environment. Award level schemes must demonstrate excellence in architecture or design, sustainability, inclusive design and make a positive social, cultural, environmental or economic benefit to the local community.

Las Arenas is a 19th century historic bullring which had fallen into disuse during the 1970s. Having played such a strong civic and cultural role in the life of Barcelona for almost a century the decision was taken for the redevelopment to retain and refurbish the striking neo-mude´jar fac¸ade and create a major new mixed-use leisure and entertainment complex, in addition to retail, restaurants and offices in the ‘Eforum’, adjacent to the bullring. The most spectacular aspect of the intervention is the 100m habitable dish with a 76m domed roof, floating over the fac¸ade providing flexible, column-free spaces beneath the dome. This “plaza in the sky” incorporates large terraces around the perimeter with space for cafe´s and restaurants, providing stunning views across the city. New, open public realm around the building now provides level access and landscaped areas. Using the most advanced technologies, while respecting and celebrating the fabric of the historical bullring has re-established the building as a visually striking landmark for the city.