The San Lorenzo del Escorial Auditorium Theater, a masterpiece of modern architecture located in the Madrid city of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, is the result of the vision and skill of the Picado de Blas architectural studio. This project, which has been awarded the prestigious 2008 Stone Architecture Award, is a testament to excellence in the use of natural materials in architecture. The award, an initiative of the Spanish Federation of Natural Stone and the Stone Fair organized by IFEMA, recognizes excellence in the use of natural materials in architecture.
From the outset, the San Lorenzo del Escorial Auditorium Theater, conceived as a work that should integrate harmoniously with its surroundings, something that was achieved through the selection and application of Silvestre Moreno Louro granite. With its unique beige-yellow and gray tones, this granite allowed the building to blend with the natural landscape while providing an aesthetic contrast to the nearby historic Monastery.
The jury, composed of prominent architects and professionals in the field such as Antonio Lamela, Sol Madridejos, and Rafael de la Hoz, was impressed by the project’s coherence in its traditional application of stone, along with the varied use of granite in different techniques. The quality of the stone implementation in this design was considered high level.
The architecture of the Auditorium Theater is particularly notable for its location on a steeply sloping site in Felipe II Park. This topographical challenge was skillfully exploited to create a design reminiscent of classical theaters, with tiers of seating supported on a hillside. The ingenious use of space and topography added a unique dimension to the project.
In terms of construction, Silvestre Mar granite was used in various finishes, such as rough, blasted, honed, or polished, for different areas of the building. From the facade and exterior landscaping to the terraces, flooring, and stairs inside, each element reflects the versatility and beauty of granite. Solid elements such as benches or foundation baseboards, along with cladding of varied thicknesses on walls and floors, highlight the mastery of working with stone. Even the ceilings and the exclusive design countertops in the public bathrooms were created in stone, demonstrating attention to detail and innovation in the use of materials.
The San Lorenzo del Escorial Auditorium Theater represents a story of innovation, respect for natural materials, and careful adaptation to the environment. This project stands out not only for its functional and aesthetic design but also for the way it demonstrates how modern architecture can effectively integrate with its surroundings. The collaboration between architects, material suppliers, and builders has culminated in a work that is a benchmark in the architectural field, serving as an inspiring example of how traditional materials can be employed in new and exciting approaches.
