At the 11th PORCELANOSA Group Architecture and Interior Design Awards, the Fenwick Iribarren Architects (FIA) studio will be honorary awarded for its contribution to the development of Spanish architecture all over the world.
The studio, founded in 1990 by the architects, Mark Fenwick and Javier Iribarren, is both nationally and internationally renowned. Its architectural portfolio includes: football stadiums, high-rise buildings, office complexes and shopping centres.
Experts in sports stadiums and buildings
Its experience has led them to becoming specialists in sports’ buildings and stadiums, where they are already a benchmark.
In its last stage, Fenwick Iribarren was awarded with the design and development of 3 of the 8 Qatar World Cup 2022 stadiums. This latest one has become an architectural landmark, since it will be the first stadium in the world that can be dismantled and then reused.
The entry of Fenwick Iribarren in the field of football stadiums began with the new stadium belonging to RCD Espanyol, which won the 2010 Stadium Business Award for being the best stadium of the year and the best 2013 Stadium in the Spanish First Division.
Thanks to the success of this facility, the studio is developing a new stadium in Valencia that will have a variable capacity and it will accommodate between 55,000 and 65,000 supporters.
Both Mark Fenwick and Javier Iribarren have become UEFA advisors for the construction of 5-star sports facilities. They have also written the book 'UEFA Guide to Quality Stadiums', published in six languages.
Caleido rejuvenates at the new Castellana
High-rise buildings and skyscrapers are another of their specialities. Both architects are responsible and co-authors of the Caleido Space at the new Castellana in Madrid and the Espacio Tower. The fourth highest skyscraper in Spain.
The refurbishment of the emblematic building at Gran Via 68; the design and development of the Somport office complexes (Tablas); Helios (Avenida de los Poblados) and the hotel from the Student Hotel chain, are other projects on which they are currently working.
Mark Fenwick and Javier Iribarren’s studio also designs private and social housing, since they have been overseeing the construction of shopping and leisure centres for many years. In this section, we highlight: 'El Portet' (Denia), Alegra (San Sebastian de los Reyes, Madrid), Diversia (Alcobendas, Madrid), Nassica (Getafe, Madrid), and the expansion of Parquesur (Madrid).
‘Blue Architecture’ spaces
Design and quality are the primary objectives for Fenwick Iribarren, who conceive each building as a custom-made "prototype".
For them, good architecture is based on being economically and commercially viable for the client. The "work machines" (this is what they call the buildings), must combine functionality and architecture and be imaginative, although with controlled costs.
Their constant search and the immediate response to human needs have allowed them to create pleasant and efficient spaces.
Unique atmospheres for working, living or enjoyment that lighten daily routines. Elements that define 'Blue Architecture', that architectural trend which looks for social balance through sustainability and constructive dynamism. A philosophy designed by Fenwick Iribarren, whose buildings have maximum energy efficiency through ecological materials.
This way of thinking can be seen in their own offices in Madrid where, their modern, pure and practical shapes join cutting-edge technology to produce a coherent and harmonious design.
Quality architecture in structures, implementation and design by Fenwick Iribarren.
