Acupuncture in paradise
The Muelle Shopping Resort
Customer
Location
Category
Visuals
Furniture
Cerberus
El Muelle resort:
Project report
Even paradise needs a little boost from time to time.
There are no waters worse than those that remain docile. The sun and excellent climate throughout the year demand interventions that respond to local needs and improve the habitat, such as controlling sun exposure, managing ventilation, and creating new destinations. Our goal is to activate the right elements so that the natural metabolism of the place can develop organically.
We find in this approach the appropriate response for El Muelle, on the island of Gran Canaria: acupuncture in paradise.
– Gran Canaria, Canary Islands.
Conquering the city
Design that mimics nature – the tireless waves conquering the shore
It would be unreasonable to think that architecture does not draw inspiration from its surroundings, whether directly, in small details, or abstractly, through concept. In this context, the presence of the sea is undeniable, and the shopping center, in turn, is inspired by it. Just as the sea is perceived as a boundless space, defined by the absence of borders, the building replicates this quality. The large scale of shopping centers creates an overwhelming experience that depends largely on proper spatial organization and the distribution of services.
One of the common challenges is finding an effective way to present the space to users, often by creating nodes and focal points that promote a smooth flow, working from specific elements toward the overall experience.
El Muelle proposes a reverse strategy: starting from the complex as a whole as a large space full of possibilities, capable of adapting and transforming itself according to its audience. The concept goes further, understanding the building not only as an architectural piece, but as an entity that extends beyond its physical limits, interacting with and indirectly conquering the city.
Like the constant movement of waves advancing and receding, this approach defines the dynamic relationship between the exterior and interior of El Muelle. The services offered inside are not confined to static positions, but expand, grow, and project beyond the building. Similarly, the interior spaces are conceived as open areas, allowing freedom of movement and permeability through their facades, that is, at their boundaries.
Adaptation occurs naturally and is reflected in the use of more vivid colors and textures. Activities are not restricted by rigid boundaries, but rather have flexible surfaces that allow for transformation. It is this flexibility that makes the large space mentioned above so attractive, transforming it from something potentially overwhelming into a dynamic melting pot of activities that vary not only in space but also in time, accommodating multiple uses at different times.
A dynamic corridor where light and materiality interact, creating a welcoming journey through the commercial environment. The fluidity of the forms invites an organic exploration of the space.
A bright, open terrace, with references to the nautical world of the 1920s reinterpreted from a contemporary perspective, conveying a sense of the sea and sophistication.
The shade structure rests on the building's solid pillars, allowing light and ventilation to pass through and providing a terrace from which to enjoy views of the island's seascape.
Each space has been carefully designed. The landscaping softens the vastness of the complex, creating a pleasant promenade with serene views of the boats.
The terrace is designed as an open space that makes users feel like they are in an outdoor retreat. Layers of neutral colors and materials combine to convey a sense of calm.
The fluidity of organic shapes, soft curves, and soft lighting transform this commercial space into a welcoming environment, replacing the feeling of immensity with an intuitive and friendly experience.
El espacio fluye
como el mar, sin
límites, siempre en
movimiento
Space flows like
the sea, without
limits, always in
motion
