More than 300 skyscrapers around the world competed for „the best skyscraper in the world” – Emporis Skyscraper Award 2010, but the architecture experts from 67 countries who judged gave the 11th prestigious designation to Porta Fira Hotel in Barcelona. Even if its height measures only 113 meters and 26 floors, lower than the other structures which have won the other places on top 10,the outstanding red tower received Emporis Skyscraper Award 2010, the world’s most renowned prize for high-rise architecture, for its impressive aesthetic beauty and very good integration into its urban environment.
Only to mention, the second place winner was Burj Khalifa in Dubai which was admired for its technical achievements and thirdly Tour CMA CGM in Marseille which was recognised as a symbol of modernity.What is so special at this hotel? We think everything from its architectural presence to its high standard servicies and luxury amenities and who could describe them better if not the people who have experienced it already. One thing is sure: its breathtaking exterior design is undoubtedly the one that created this international buzz, which has described by the architects as „the biggest chalenge” from the project.
The surreal spiraling structure with complex geometry that increases in size as it rises was conceptualised by Japanese renowned architect Toyo Ito& Associates in collaboration with b720 Fermin Vazquez Arquitectos and constructed by FCC Construcción on the outskirts of Barcelona in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, one of Barcelona’s busiest development areas. The hotel belongs to the Hoteles Santos chain and is part of the city’s urban regeneration project and also of the Barcelona skyline since 2010, becoming already one of the architectural icons of the city as well as a reference point for the business world.
Resembling a lotus flower, this modern building is impossible not to be observed from a distance since it has that striking red colour and such a height. Concrete and aluminum are the materials used to create this unique “double skin” design: the inner layer is made of stainless steel sandwich panels, while the outer layer of skin is made of aluminum tubes coated with a red metallic resin paint. The architect’s abstract interpretation is captivating even more if we think to its sleek, gorgeous and monochromatic interior design that complements the exterior creating an extraordinary visual experience.
Its 320 rooms and suites are spacious, bright and sophisticated and decorated with the finest quality of furniture are always ready to offer comfort in an exquisite way and magnificent views of Barcelona city. The best skyscraper in the world features also nine large, state-of-the-art meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology and a plenary room. The hotel has a meeting capacity of 1,357 and the largest meeting room can accommodate 740 occupants.
