The new Gran Canaria Stadium, developed by the architectural firm L35 Architects in collaboration with Estudio 0710 under the proposal titled “La Nube” (The Cloud), aims to transform the stadium into an architectural and sustainable landmark, fully prepared to host major international events - including the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
A proposal designed for the 2030 FIFA World Cup
The project includes an expansion that will increase the stadium's capacity from 32,418 to 44,020 spectators, meeting FIFA’s standards for hosting matches in the final phase of the tournament. To enhance the fan experience, the North and South stands will be brought closer to the pitch, ensuring optimal visibility and creating a more immersive atmosphere.
L35’s design will be implemented in phases and will involve interventions in the interior areas, the renovation of entrances, and the reconfiguration of the surrounding urban space to improve circulation and seamlessly connect the stadium with its urban context.
Innovation and Sustainability: The Keys to the Design
One of “The Cloud”’s most striking features is its holistic approach to sustainability, woven throughout the project from day one. The stadium’s exterior envelope will employ state-of-the-art materials that lend it an iconic presence while maximizing natural light and enabling passive ventilation—dramatically cutting energy use.
Inside, the design embraces a humidity-harvesting system known locally as a captabrumas. Though this technique has been used for centuries to collect atmospheric moisture, it will be introduced here for the very first time in a structure of this scale. On the roof, photovoltaic panels and rainwater-collection systems will further boost the complex’s efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint.
A Lightweight, High-Performance Roof
The roof’s structural solution resembles a spoked wheel: an outer compression ring is supported by 44 columns, linked to two inner tension rings. This configuration yields a strong yet lightweight shell capable of spanning great distances with grace and efficiency. Rigid struts connect upper and lower radial cables to form the roof’s triangular geometry, while vertical bands between the spokes add visual dynamism and enhance structural performance. Membranes and membrane arches complete the system, preserving the overall form and channeling rainwater toward the compression ring.
A Multifunctional Hub for the Community
The Gran Canaria Stadium is conceived as far more than just a football ground. L35 envisions it as a social and cultural epicenter tied to sport—a gathering place for the people of the Canary Islands that also draws international visitors. Beyond converting certain areas for events and conferences of all kinds, the project introduces new amenities to foster innovation in sports and entertainment. At street level, a revamped retail and dining promenade will activate Fondos de Segura.
A Project with Local Roots and Global Reach
The Canary Islands are a world-famous destination, and L35 aims to leverage its global infrastructure expertise to help Las Palmas de Gran Canaria stake a new claim as a center of sport and sustainability. This is a project with global ambition, framed by local needs, respectful of its surroundings, and poised to bring lasting benefits to the community.
On this vision, Alejandro Lorca, Senior Partner at L35, remarked:
“Our goal is to create a stadium that is not only an architectural icon but also serves the community’s needs and meets the challenges of climate change. We want ‘The Cloud’ to become a symbol of sustainability and modernity.”
Project Details
Projected capacity: 44,020 spectators.
Primary materials: Textile membrane, concrete, local Stone
Sustainable systems: Humidity‐harvesting system (locally known as captabrumas), solar panels, rainwater collection
Additional uses: Dining facilities; conference and events spaces; sports innovation hub; sports and entertainment venues
With “The Cloud,” Estadio de Gran Canaria rises as a global icon, blending innovation, functionality, and sustainability into one ambitious, visionary architectural project.
ABOUT L35 Architects: L35 Architects is an international studio of architecture, urbanism, and design with offices in Barcelona, Madrid, Sotogrande, Paris, Milan, Mexico City, Bogotá, Santiago, Istanbul, and Abu Dhabi. Founded in 1967, the firm is led by 25 partners and supported by over 200 professionals. Over its history, L35 has specialized in residential, office, hospitality, commercial, stadiums, mixed‐use developments, and large‐scale urban projects. Notable current works include the remodeling of Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, the El Campín cultural and sports complex in Bogotá, Simón Bolívar Stadium in La Paz, the revitalization of Toulon’s waterfront in France, and the renovation of Rome’s Stazione Termini. With projects in 40 countries, L35 approaches every challenge through collective dialogue with clients and collaborators, striving for design excellence.
