Sticking with it: Cultural centre holds firm

The Metropol Parasol is built mainly of laminated timber, and is one of the largest structures in the world to be held together by glue. Complicated parametric design software was used to create the big mushroom-like canopy, with help from structural engineering specialist Arup.

The new cultural centre includes a farmer’s market, shops and cafés, revitalising a previously disused part of the city. The Parasol will also provide protection from the Spanish sun, creating a shaded event space beneath.

Metropol Parasol is a large-scale example of the Soft Reduction design direction outlined in LS:N Global’s recent Inspire feature, in which simple, quality materials and a craft aesthetic encourage a meaningful relationship between a product and its users.