Portuguese firm NOARQ has teamed up with AM2 Arquitectos to build Halo, an impressive urban elevator in Vigo, Spain. This innovative project was initially conceived for an international architecture competition and seamlessly integrates with the VIGO VERTICAL urban regeneration plan.
Located on the roof of the Vigo intermodal station, Halo offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, making it a remarkable and iconic landmark for the region. Designed in collaboration with AM2 Arquitectos and engineering firm Arenas Y Asociados, Halo not only enhances mobility and connectivity in Vigo but also captivates the attention of both locals and visitors. With its suspended pedestrian walkway and two elevators, the structure provides a seamless link between the intermodal station and the area below it.
Situated atop Serafin Avendaño street, the tower serves as a focal point and draws the gaze of those passing by, especially those utilizing the Guixar railway station. The tower’s design features two arches at its peak, granting access to the intermodal station’s roof and beautifully complementing the station’s crystallized central atrium.
Positioned at the top of the ramp on Serafin Avendaño street, the tower not only marks the axis of the street but also captures the attention of the citizens of the seaport area of Vigo, particularly the Guixar railway station users. At the pinnacle of the tower, the architects have ingeniously divided the pedestrian access to the intermodal station’s roof into two arches, forming a captivating ring. These arches are supported on each side by the crystallized volume of the central panoramic atrium, which emerges gracefully from the roof of the intermodal station.
The pathway enclosed within the east arch prioritizes comfort for citizens in transit by providing a more private route for residents in the residential towers along Calle García Barbón. In contrast, the open-air route within the west arch extends over the arch’s profile towards the ocean, making it more appealing to tourists.
Both the front face of the tower and the outer face of the circle are constructed with silkscreened glass, giving them a white appearance. This design choice allows for the visibility of the metallic structure and elevator movement at night, while providing city views during the day. The slabs and wall profiles are clad in white steel sheeting, concealing the underlying steel and concrete structures.