YEAR
2025 - 2026
IN COLLABORATION WITH
CLIENT
Parque Marítimo de Santa Cruz
LOCATION
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
CATEGORY
Landscape
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO
Flavio Dorta
COMPETITION
First Prize
STATUS
Built
The project recovers an old, disused path within the Palmetum, transforming it into a new accessible route that highlights the existing topography and creates new connections with the landscape.
Unlike a previous proposal of high technical complexity—which relied on extensive retaining systems over unstable terrain—the intervention is reconsidered with a more precise, buildable, and gradual approach. The project is divided into two complete and independent phases, each of which can be executed separately without losing the overall coherence.
Phase I, already completed, includes both the refurbishment of the existing path and the construction of a staircase and a new viewpoint-rest area. The main route, approximately 150 meters long, remains almost level, with gentle slopes under 6%, adapting to the topography and minimizing earthworks. This strategy preserves the character of the site and reduces intervention on the heterogeneous and sensitive terrain.
The path is made with a continuous stabilized earth surface, using the site’s own soil combined with ecological binders and additives. The result is a permeable, flexible, and durable surface that absorbs minor settlements and blends visually and thermally with the landscape. To prevent erosion and control runoff, the route is accompanied by green channels that direct water to specific discharge points, where concrete is used to formalize these intersections and make the flow of water visible.
At special points—such as entrances and the viewpoint—the paving shifts to exposed aggregate concrete, marking transitions and providing greater stability in areas of higher use. The viewpoint, oriented northeast, occupies a natural widening of the terrain and is equipped with concrete benches and stepped seating, offering a space to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
The staircase, part of this first phase, connects to the Bosque Termófilo, overcoming a vertical drop of about 10 meters. It is designed as a light, fragmented structure composed of independent flights resting on isolated footings, allowing it to adapt to possible ground movements without rigidifying the whole. The material palette reinforces the continuity of the project: the structure and risers are in corten steel, while the treads are stabilized earth, extending the character of the path. At turning points, landings widen into small resting areas, paved in concrete and furnished with benches, framing the landscape.
Corten steel also appears as a border and protective element along the route, defining limits subtly while developing a patina over time that harmonizes with the environment.
Phase II will continue the path from the completed viewpoint, linking it to the ramp area leading to the elevator. This intervention is part of a broader network of accessible routes throughout the park, enhancing continuity and expanding the possibilities of use.
More than a simple project, this work proposes a way to experience the place: a continuous, accessible, and thoughtful path, where technical solutions respond to the conditions of the terrain, and every element—the paving, drainage, and structure—helps forge a closer relationship between visitors and the landscape.
Aerial view of the southern hill and sea, showing the nursery complex, lake, and birdwatching hide at the Palmetum of Tenerife.