henning larsen architects: palacio de congresos, lanzarote

palacio de congresos by henning larsen architects

the new concert and congress centre, palacio de congresos by danish firm henning larsen architects is based around the jagged and characteristic landscape of lanzarote.

palacio de congresos will be located at the sea promenade of arrecife, the island’s main city. the crystalline shape accentuates the identity and evolves the profile of the city. the main entrance hall is elevated from the traffic and opens up towards the city and the ocean promenade. it welcomes visitors and shows the inner glow and activity, and the city park is activated as a part of the entrance plaza, leading the way to the ‘red carpet area’ and a grand entry of the building. one collective foyer, as a cave, accomplishes visual contact to all levels and converts, with precise views back to the city and the city park, the skyline of the mountains, the ocean horizon and the sky.

from arrecife, the palacio de congresos is very visible and significant at the end of the promenade. with no rear side, the building will appear a landmark from the ocean, the city and from all the access roads. the island’s mild climate has made it possible to construct a large outdoor foyer making space for various public events and conventions. a series of sustainable initiatives have been integrated in order to minimize the building’s consumption of energy. the building is clad with a layer of semi- intelligent, shadow-providing shells ensuring a cool and comfortable inner climate. while reflecting the sun the shells also comprise the latest version of solar cells.

model

model

floor plan

elevation view elevation view

perspective view

perspective view

perspective view

location:lanzarote, spain client:gobierno de canarias area:15,000 m2 year of construction:2009 – 2013 type of assignment:first prize in international competition, 2009 local partner: spanish architect, carlos morales