Radial geometry by zU-studio organizes La Bretxa Public Space
La Bretxa Public Space, designed by zU-studio, is located adjacent to the traditional market in the old town of San Sebastián, Spain. The project reconfigures an existing urban plaza positioned at a key junction connecting the Gros district, the city center, and the Boulevard, reinforcing its role as a point of access to the historic core.
The design is structured around geometric principles derived from Basque cultural references. A central motif is the ‘Eguzki-Lore,’ a traditional sunflower symbol historically placed at entrances for protection. This element is reinterpreted at an urban scale, organizing the plaza through a radial configuration that establishes both spatial hierarchy and symbolic meaning.
Access to the plaza is defined through four diagonal entry points located at its corners. This layout references the ‘Lauburu,’ a Basque symbol associated with unity and the four elements, fire, water, air, and earth. The resulting geometry connects surrounding streets to the center of the plaza, creating a continuous flow of movement across the site.
all images courtesy of zU-studio
sculptural bench resembles traditional sunflower symbol
At the core of the intervention, a planted area introduces a contrasting spatial condition within the dense urban context. This central zone is conceived as a space for pause and occupation, supported by a network of seating elements distributed throughout the plaza. A sculptural bench with an organic configuration is positioned at the center, functioning as both a focal point and a flexible element that accommodates individual and collective use.
The plaza is designed to support a range of activities, from daily use associated with the adjacent market to larger public events. In addition, a sculptural component referencing the ‘Argizaiola,’ a traditional Basque funerary object associated with remembrance, is integrated into the project, introducing a layer of cultural continuity within the contemporary urban intervention.
Through its geometric organization, material articulation, and programmatic flexibility, La Bretxa Public Space, conceived by zU-studio architecture practice, redefines the plaza as an active civic environment connected to both its cultural context and everyday urban life.
a radial geometry organizes the public space
the sunflower motif is translated into an urban layout
a sculptural bench anchors the center of the space
a planted core introduces a contrasting spatial condition
movement flows continuously toward the center
the project is inspired by traditional Basque symbolism
project info:
name: La Bretxa Public Space in San Sebastian
architect: zU-studio | @zustudioarchitecture
lead architect: Javier Zubiria Gallastegui
technical architect: Lander Arregui
developer: City Hall of San Sebastian
location: San Sebastian, Spain
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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