Edifici Fòrum

Edifici Fòrum
2001-2004
Presented by Melissa Trueblood

The 2004 Forum Building was designed by the Swiss architects Jaques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron. It was considered by some to be the icon for the "new Barcelona". Controversial is another term used to describe the Forum Building. It is a triangular building measuring 180 meters on each side and 25 meters tall. The blue concrete triangular building was designed to resemble a sponge that is saturated with water blending into the sky and Mediterranean Sea. The structure is lifted off the ground creating a permeable public space where the entrances are located. The way in which the series of courtyards intersects creates unique views and sunlight patterns upon the site. As well as, each courtyard has a different amount of reflective material in them to enhance the sun patterns and experience at ground level. The exterior glazing reflects the sky linking the water covered roof with the water -like soffit below. Water flowing from the roof keeps the roof cool during the hot Barcelonan summers. Located in the blue triangle is the exhibition space, and below grade level is an auditorium space that can seat 3,200 people. This building is a great addition to Barcelona and its cultural influences.