a new congress center for the alicante harbor
Alicante’s historic harbor is set to receive a modern addition, as Luca Poian Forms and Frade Arquitectos reveal their competition-winning Congress Center. The proposal for the Spanish city draws inspiration from the area’s layered past and promises a contemporary landmark that encourages connection and public engagement. The architects’ vision takes its cue from the San Carlos bastion, a former defensive structure that once stood on the site. Dismantled in the late 19th century, the bastion’s memory lives on in the design’s two distinct volumes. These tapered masses will be clad in white glazed ceramic bricks in a nod to Valencian tradition, resulting in a glimmering facade. Together, they will be christened ‘the citadel’ and ‘the lighthouse.’
Alicante’s harbor will see a new congress center by Luca Poian Forms and Frade Arquitectos | images © BS Arq
a flexible center for diverse gatherings
The Alicante Congress Center is designed by Luca Poian Forms and Frade Arquitectos to cater to a variety of events. The main volume houses 2,000-capacity, 500-capacity and 300-capacity events halls. Additional amenities include a foyer, a multipurpose hall, a VIP lounge, a press room, dedicated backstage areas for speakers, and loading facilities. Meanwhile, a tower-like structure hosts office space. A key feature of the design is the bridge connecting the two main volumes. This structure incorporates a public roof garden which lends a new public gathering space and connection with nature.
The adaptability of the project extends further still, as a flexible space is hidden beneath the green concourse. Here, parking, additional office areas, and even other amenities can be incorporated based on the city’s evolving requirements. With its thoughtful, adaptable design that draws from the history of the coastal city, the Alicante Congress Center by Luca Poian Forms and Frade Arquitectos is set to be a vibrant addition to the city’s architectural landscape.
the winning design draws inspiration from the historic San Carlos bastion that once stood on the site
the center features two main volumes clad in white glazed ceramic bricks, referencing Valencian tradition 
one volume houses large event halls, a foyer, lounges, and backstage areas 
the tower-like structure volume functions as office space