A Light and Flexible Roof for the Public Space

The proposal incorporates a partial covering of the plaza using a series of lightweight, long-span porticos that rotate relative to each other, creating a dynamic and open structure.

This arrangement allows for the reorganization of pedestrian flow within the plaza and acts as an access system that invites people to explore and use the space. At the same time, the roof provides protection from the weather without losing the sense of openness and connection to the urban environment. The flexible design of the structure allows the plaza to be easily adapted to the different cultural, social, and festive activities held in Idiazabal throughout the year.

Landscape Integration Along the Urtsuarán River

In the eastern part of the plaza, a landscaped area linked to the Urtsuarán River is planned, conceived as a space for rest and relaxation.

This intervention seeks to highlight the natural riverbed and integrate it both functionally and aesthetically within the plaza. The presence of vegetation and trees creates a contrast with the paved surfaces of the rest of the urban space, creating a more natural transition between architecture and landscape.

The objective is to foster a more harmonious relationship between the urban environment and the existing natural landscape along the river.

Natural Materials and Contemporary Urban Design

The architecture firm aimed to reinforce the urban and contemporary character of the plaza by using sandstone paving on most of the surface, reserving the green areas as spaces for rest and socializing.

The arrangement of the street furniture also responds to criteria of flexibility and functionality. The seating areas are concentrated in the landscaped areas, allowing the central space of the square to remain free for holding public activities and events.

Integrated Lighting in the Architecture

One of the project’s highlights is the integration of lighting within the portico structure itself, eliminating the need for conventional streetlights and creating a cleaner, more organized urban landscape.

Lighting is conceived as an essential element of the architectural design, capable of adapting to the plaza’s various activities and uses. The system allows for the creation of warmer, softer atmospheres during nighttime hours, as well as more intense and dynamic lighting during special events and celebrations.

Furthermore, the option to incorporate chromatic lighting reinforces the versatile and contemporary character of the public space.

A Sustainable Architecture Project

The roof design and material selection adhere to sustainability criteria from an economic, social, and environmental perspective.

Economic Sustainability

The proposal prioritizes efficient, viable, and low-maintenance construction solutions, ensuring the project’s durability and optimizing available resources.

Social Sustainability

The project prioritizes the use of local resources and businesses, supporting the local economy and employment opportunities in the Idiazabal area.

Environmental Sustainability

The project incorporates recycled, natural, or low-CO₂ emission materials, seeking to reconcile urban activity with respect for the landscape and the preservation of the natural environment.

With this project, Angulo Arquitectura proposes a new way of understanding contemporary public space: flexible, sustainable, and connected to people and the landscape.