Recovering an Obsolete Hydraulic Structure for the Town’s People

A thoughtful intervention revives the Bassa Nova pond in Reus Gallego Arquitectura's project in Reus, Tarragona, reimagines the Bassa Nova pond, a 19th-century hydraulic structure, as a modern urban space for recreation and leisure. Originally designed for water storage and distribution, the pond's social utility waned mid-20th century. This intervention reclaims its heritage value and urban function. The design raises the pond's base, creating a 15-cm deep water stretch, ensuring safety while preserving the pond's historical appearance. A new walkway, constructed from corrugated rod irons, offers visitors a novel perspective, maintaining the original depth in parts to illustrate the site's hydraulic history. Surrounding landscaped terraces with Mediterranean flora and century-old plane trees enhance the site's natural beauty. The use of vertical rod irons for fencing and railings ensures material continuity, while brickwork and coarse sand define the pavement. A pergola at the entrance, adorned with evergreen vines, provides shade and complements the site's historical ambiance. This intervention enriches the community's interaction with its historical landscape.

Design Highlights

Raised pond base with a 15-cm water stretch for safety Corrugated rod iron walkway offering new site perspectives Restored ceramic tiles create surrounding paving Landscaped terraces with Mediterranean shrubs and century-old trees Pergola with evergreen vines for natural shade

Key Facts