SAN CARLOS

Drawing inspiration from the Spanish coastal city’s layered past, our proposal for a new congress centre is a modern addition to Alicante’s historic harbor, featuring a contemporary landmark that encourages connection and public engagement.

The design takes its cue from the San Carlos bastion, a former defensive structure that once stood on the site. Dismantled in the late 19th century, the bastion’s memory lives on in the design’s two distinct volumes. These tapered masses will be clad in white glazed ceramic bricks in a nod to Valencian tradition, resulting in a glimmering facade. Both volumes feature strategically located apertures offering carefully curated views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Together, they will be christened ‘the citadel’ and ‘the lighthouse.’

Designed to cater to a variety of events, the main volume houses 2,000-capacity, 500-capacity and 300-capacity events halls. Additional amenities include a foyer, a multipurpose hall, a VIP lounge, a press room, dedicated backstage areas for speakers, and loading facilities. Meanwhile, a tower-like structure hosts office space. A key feature of the design is the bridge connecting the two main volumes. This structure incorporates a public roof garden which lends a new public gathering space and connection with nature.

The adaptability of the project extends further still, as a flexible space is hidden beneath the green concourse. Here, parking, additional office areas, and even other amenities can be incorporated based on the city’s evolving requirements. With its thoughtful, adaptable design that draws from the history of the area, the San Carlos Congress Center is set to be a vibrant addition to the city’s architectural landscape.

DATA
Client: City of Alicante
Use: Congress Centre
Budget: €65 Million
Status: 1st Prize, International Design Competition

CREDITS
Architect: LUCA POIAN FORMS + FRADE ARQUITECTOS
Engineer: PROINTEC
Images: BS Arq