The last time we were in southern Spain’s piping-hot capital, J. MAYER H. architects‘ impressive timber structure was no more than a concrete base and, having been under development for the last 6 years, Seville’s locals will no doubt be glad that the redevelopment of Plaza de la Encarnacion is no longer the perpetual building site that we were witness to. What stands now on that 18,000 sq metre plot is a mesmerising behemoth of concrete, steel and beguiling timber – a 4 floor, multipurpose icon, thoroughly deserving of its place in this beautiful, cultural city.

A farmers market, archaeological museum, elevated plaza, bars and restaurants underneath and within the parasols, along with a panoramic terrace on its weaving roof – the Metropol Parasol offers much more than a vision of architectural beauty, it’s a breathtakingly modern interpretation of an urban centre, a place to be inspired but also to do the everyday things you do in city life. The Berlin-based architects may be famous for pushing boundaries with their work, but this is impressive even for them, a modern icon that rivals any contemporary urban space, Seville’s Metropol Parasol is a very, very special piece of work…