According to the 103-year-old Oscar Niemeyer, the inspiration for his world-famous, sweeping constructions comes from the curves of Brazilian women. Similarly graceful and bold is the Centro Oscar Niemeyer, which, as well as attracting countless tourists, is bringing about urban and economic regeneration in the former industrial town of Avilés, found in the northern Spanish province of Asturias.

The designs for the international cultural centre, which offers space for concerts, plays, presentations and exhibitions, were gifted to the province several years ago by the architect behind Brasilia. This was on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Prince of Asturias Award, which Niemeyer received in 1989. Since its opening at the end of March, the four-component white development, which is characterized by the futuristic curves for which the designer is famous, has dazzled visitors to the artificial island in the Avilés river.

A UFO-like domed building serves as an exhibition hall and art gallery, while a 13-metre-tall tower with an exterior spiral staircase and overhanging top floor offers visitors a wonderful view across the city and surrounding area. The highlight of the complex is a spectacular auditorium in the form of a giant wave with seating for 1,000 people, which is connected to an eye-catching footbridge that snakes across the huge piazza.

Parallel to this is a curved, multi-purpose building, which is home to facilities including a nursery, conference rooms, and a film centre (led by no less than Woody Allen). The desired “Niemeyer effect” appears to have taken hold.

Text: Kim Leclaire

Information

Centro Niemeyer
Avenida del Zinc, 33400 Avilés
Tel. +34/984/83 30 86, www.niemeyercenter.org