The project started from an approach to the landscape based on two opposite scales. The first is the cosmic scale in which the Moon and the Sun move a huge mass of water in a constant but variable way, depending on the position of these two stars in the monthly cycle and with respect to the Earth. Secondly, a very close scale in which sea water is associated to a measure of time [5cm of sea water height rising or descending correspond to 20 minutes of time]. The latter can only be appreciated by placing an object/reference within this landscape. This is how the project arose: as an excuse to play with these two scales.
After this starting point, the project evolves to become a public space in the middle of the estuary. The part of the project under the high tide level built with concrete breaks into different heights, to trick the rhythm of the tide and create leisure spaces. All services that must be dry and that are necessary to complement the leisure water spaces are located in wood constructions above the height of the high tide. The three water tank towers close the project not only functionally but also architecturally. A project that, besides understanding the landscape with subtlety, ends up being a sign of optimism about how Architecture (construction, materials, spatiality, users and program) is able to adapt to an unusual environment and in it, generate new tensions, new uses and a different perception of what surrounds it, from inside and outside.
The project is deeply rooted in its context in many different ways. It is not only the result of a rigorous research on the physical conditions of the landscape it is inserted in but also it establishes a strong argument on the essence of public space. The project strengthens the opportunities found on the site, the program and the social context and builds a place in a subtle dialog with water, atmosphere and time variations.
Construction strategies are technically developed according to the nature of the found conditions combining massive concrete dams and light steel and polycarbonate structures. On another layer, all materials in touch with human skin, such as wood and water, are thought to create a comfortable and pleasant leisure space for community. The result is a project that activates extraordinarily the space of the sea and highlights with great sensibility the natural conditions of Pontevedra's estuary.
A unique project that from a transcendental cosmic scale translates into the landscape of the Pontevedra estuary of Ria de Arousa. Thus the project evolves from of an undiscovered, wild, natural landscape to a recognizable landmark sculpture, providing a simple essence of public space.
The physical conditions found on the site are superbly transformed into leisure spaces, enriched and enlivened by the changing processes of tide movement.
Using artificial lightweight simple forms of modular 'eucalyptus' construction with varied functions, makes Sizigia appear to float over the sea and successfully creates a highly artistic presence in an ever-changing dialogue with water, atmosphere and time.
This project receives the UAUIM Award for the Artistic Quality.
