Top architect J. Mayer H. designed “Metropol Parasol” a giant timber canopy as part of their development of the Plaza de la Encarnacíon in Seville, Spain, by bringing together varied functions, past and present, into a new urban architecture statement.
The Metropol Parasol scheme includes an archaeological museum, a farmers market, an elevated plaza, and bars and restaurants, all contained beneath and within the parasol structure. Metropol Parasol undulating curves inspire movement; they provide an image of movement.
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The structure also inspires a movement of people visiting the site. This is civic modern architecture, a structure that endorses action and interaction between the communities.
The modern building explores the potential of the Plaza de la Encarnacion as a new contemporary urban center. This unique urban space in the middle of the medieval inner city of Seville allows a variety of activities.
After a demolished convent, a market consisting of several buildings functioned here during the 19th Century until 1973 when the ensemble was torn down. The square was used as a parking lot during the 80s and they were some plans for using the site for underground parking garages.
When archeological remains of Roman mosaics and building structures, as well as early Christian ruins, were exposed they decided to stage an international competition for the future development of the square. This was won by Jürgen Mayer H. a Berlin-based office.
Recognized as one of the largest and most groundbreaking timber constructions, the parasols grow out of the archaeological site into a contemporary design landmark and sign that outlines the incorporation of tradition and modernism.
