sculptural installations animate zU-studio’s hotel redesign in spain

zU-studio revives Lasala Plaza Hotel’s common areas

zU-studio led the reconstruction of the ground floor and first-floor common areas of Lasala Plaza Hotel in San Sebastián, Spain, as part of a broader repositioning of the property. The intervention redefines the shared spaces through a contemporary architectural language while acknowledging the character of the historic building.

The hotel’s entire ground floor has been reorganized as a lounge-bar environment designed to function throughout the day, accommodating activities from morning use to evening gatherings. The layout emphasizes openness and flexibility, allowing the space to adapt to different configurations and levels of occupancy.

Material selection plays a central role in shaping the atmosphere. Dark wood and light beige tones establish a restrained palette that supports spatial continuity across the ground floor. This neutral framework allows key architectural and sculptural elements, including the bar, reception desk, alabaster wall surfaces, and a suspended installation of thirteen oars, to define focal points within the interior.

main entrance to the hotel | all images by Pedro Pegenaute

clear lines and restrained material palette define the renovation

Visual reduction was a primary objective of the renovation, developed by zU-studio architecture practice. The design minimizes ornamental distraction in favor of clear lines and controlled material transitions. The sculptural installation of thirteen wooden and copper oars welcomes guests upon arrival. Abstracted in form, the twisted elements reference the motion of rowing and the reflective qualities of the sea, establishing a conceptual link to the city’s maritime identity.

The refurbishment integrates contemporary spatial organization with the existing historic structure. The building’s dual orientation, toward the old town on one side and the harbor on the other, is reinforced through clear axial alignments that enhance both physical circulation and visual connectivity.

Through spatial clarity, material restraint, and the integration of site-specific references, the project redefines the hotel’s common areas while maintaining continuity with its urban and historical context.

hotel lobby

hotel lobby

lounge area

lounge area

wooden space with three round windows

sculpture designed by Javier Zubiria, built by carpenter Aitor Muñoz

sculpture designed by Javier Zubiria, built by carpenter Aitor Muñoz

sculpture designed by Javier Zubiria, built by carpenter Aitor Muñoz

sculpture designed by Javier Zubiria, built by carpenter Aitor Muñoz

project info:

name: Lasala Plaza Hotel in San Sebastian

architect: zU-studio | @zustudioarchitecture

design team: Javier Zubiria, Joaquin Zubiria

technical architect: Aitor Alcelay

mechanical engineering: IDZ Ingenieria

constructor: Irureta

carpenter: Alai Carpinteria, Aitor Muñoz

steel work: Ibarkalde, Jorge Ibarkalde

client: Lasala Plaza Hotel / SADE

location: San Sebastian, Spain

photographer: Pedro Pegenaute | @pedropegenaute

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom