Our thinking
Study Trip to Bilbao
The Engenuiti team travelled to Bilbao, Spain, to explore a city that has transformed from a former powerhouse of steel production into a global centre for modern art, design and urban regeneration. Throughout the trip, the team shared their research into Bilbao’s iconic buildings and landmarks, gaining a deeper appreciation for the architecture and engineering that developed the city’s identity.
The Guggenheim Museum was one of our first highlights. Renowned for its flowing, organic forms and striking titanium exterior, the building is a fascinating example of how engineering can bring ambitious architectural concepts to life. Inside, the structural design accommodates expansive galleries filled with modern contemporary art.
Our adventure included crossing numerous bridges, with Zubizuri Bridge being a particular favourite! Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this distinctive pedestrian bridge spans the Nervión River, combining an inclined steel arch with a curved walkway supported by high-strength steel suspension cables. Rising approximately 15 metres, the originally white structure demonstrates how structural engineering can create both an efficient river crossing and a striking architectural landmark within Bilbao’s regenerated waterfront.
We also stopped by Bilbao City Hall, and were pleasantly surprised to discover a Stranger Things manhole cover just outside the entrance!
Originally built as a wine warehouse, Azkuna Zentroa has since been transformed into a contemporary cultural centre. One of its most distinctive features is its collection of 43 individually designed columns. The original brick warehouse shell has been retained and repurposed, where three interconnected buildings live inside this structure.
This structure also features a public pool with a glass bottom base being visible from the atrium below.
Known as the “Godfather of Stadiums”, San Mamés Stadium is home to the football team, Athletic Club. The stadium features a roof structure with a cantilever extending approximately 50 metres, alongside composite portal frames supporting a 7-metre perimeter cantilever. Its phased construction was particularly interesting, with sections of the new stadium built partially over the footprint of the historic ground while accommodating the existing stadium’s continued use.
Even those of us who are not football fans found the stadium to be an incredibly insightful visit!
Before heading back to London, we took the Artxanda Funicular to the top of Monte Artxanda, approximately 251 metres above sea level. From the viewpoint, we could look back across the city and spot many of the landmarks we had visited.
This was the perfect opportunity to take in Bilbao’s distinctive skyline and reflect on how its industrial past and contemporary regeneration have come together to shape the city we had spent the weekend exploring.
