MIAS Architects Extends Travertine Urban Landscape in Banyoles, Spain
The recent phase of the renovation of Banyoles' historic town center in Spain, which includes Plaça d'en Ges and adjacent streets, has been finalized by MIAS Architects. This initiative, which began three decades ago, employs locally sourced lacustrine travertine for the streets, public areas, and furnishings. In this phase, travertine is utilized for benches, planting beds, and elevation changes, featuring a mix of smooth and textured surfaces. A continuous perimeter is established around the existing plane tree and fountain, converting a traffic island into a pedestrian-friendly zone. The project marries modern stone-cutting techniques with traditional craftsmanship, enhancing narrow streets into vibrant civic pathways. It strengthens a unified pedestrian environment while linking the town's historical materials to modern urban design. Photographed by Pau López.
Key facts
- MIAS Architects completed the latest phase of Banyoles' historic center refurbishment.
- The intervention extends to Plaça d'en Ges and surrounding streets Sant Martirià and Sant Antoni.
- Locally sourced lacustrine travertine is used for paving, furniture, and planting.
- The project began with an initial sketch about 30 years ago; first construction phase was two decades ago.
- Large travertine blocks are cut and carved to reveal geological layers.
- The former traffic island in Plaça d'en Ges is reorganized as a pedestrian area.
- Digital stone fabrication is combined with traditional craftsmanship and on-site adaptation.
- The project is part of a long-term urban strategy to create a coherent pedestrian landscape.
Entities
Artists
- Pau López
Institutions
- MIAS Architects
- designboom
Locations
- Banyoles
- Spain