CANDELARIA 

In 2009, the Cabildo Insular de Tenerife (the governing body of the island of Tenerife) organized an ideas competition for the renovation of the Plaza de la Patrona, a square in the town of Candelaria. Waterfront and square adequacy for big events as well as connecting with the community were required.

A holistic project was developed to unify the programme and prioritize mobility. Key elements were placed strategically along the intervention to extend the impact of the new infrastructure. The parking lot was located under Calle Anton Guanche, helping to connect levels and save costs by minimizing excavation, which was possible due to the use of the natural street slope. In the same way, paths were restored and connected to facilitate walks to the top of the hill behind Candelaria church from where visitors can enjoy magnificent coastal and town views. By creating a sculptural building piece (work by Juan Correa), the top of the hill became a focal point, generating activity. Furthermore, the waterfront was expanded and the space in front of the cave of the Virgin of Candelaria was widened.

As a result, the logical sequence of uses and the importance given to accessibility and mobility helped build a coherent and holistic project which emphasizes Candelaria church's central role, allowing local residents to feel closer to the sea.