Ecological Retaining Wall

The UD Training Complex is located on the slope of a ravine in an area with certain rustic and natural qualities. An innovative solution tied to landscape bioengineering is proposed to contain the football fields’ platform, specifically the so-called “green or ecological walls.”

Green walls are retaining structures built with layers of compacted soil reinforced with geosynthetic meshes. This combination provides sufficient stability for the wall to function by gravity. This nature-based solution does not require water or concrete for its construction.

The proposed solution is an ecological wall 25 meters high and over 300 meters long, with slopes varying between 45 and 80 degrees. The exposed landscaped surface is built with a layer of selected topsoil held by coconut fabric and a metal mesh, allowing plant growth. The resulting vertical garden does not bear structural loads, which means it can be planted and irrigated without compromising the wall’s stability.

The wall is designed with irregular, organic geometry, incorporating a zigzag staircase that provides pedestrian access to the complex. The final design combines a landscaped surface with local stone gabion walls, which address height differences and serve as protective barriers at the top.

This solution aligns with the principles of the circular economy and its call to build without waste. Its construction is based on reclaiming materials from the construction site´s excavation. The wall is landscaped with local plant species, enhancing biodiversity and improving the landscape.

Cenobio Pedestrian Access

The Cenobio of Valeron is a pre-Hispanic granary excavated more than five hundred years ago by the ancient inhabitants of the island of Gran Canaria.

Its difficult accessibility helped to preserve this large pantry from potential raids of plunder and looting. The project aims to connect the 300 meter gap between the car park and the archaeological site along a very sharp slope. The program of uses consists of an accessible pedestrian route, complemented by a control area and an interpretation center at both extremes. The project is resolved by three sections of control coming out from the evaluation of minimum land excavation and three diferent landscape experiences (cultural, panoramic and archaeological). The interchange area is the result of bridging the gap between the three control sections with 3D software.

The different spatial scenarios that the visitor enjoys along the way transform the visits of tourists into a memorable and educational experience.

Special-Needs Friendly Pathway

The main aim of the project is to solve the problems of universal accessibility and mobility of club members. The overall strategy is to provide not only a functional solution for people with special needs but to also ofer social inclusion, in a non-segregated space. The project is made up of three components. The irst one is a straight staircase that connects the diferent levels. The second component is a smooth ramp that gives direct and universal access to the facilities and the solariums. The third element is a triangular layout that integrates the walks into the surrounding landscape.
The whole layout ofers a 60 % highly permeable surface that guarantees natural oxygenation and watering of the soil.