The Spanish Antarctic base is located on Livingstone Island and comprises a 3-winged habitat module, a science module and a series of support areas for services and storage. The 3-wings of the habitat building are arranged around a central core, promoting social interaction, while the science building is a separate structure, for life safety in case of a disaster. The habitat provides sleeping accommodation for 24 people, with the option to increase the population to 48 in the future. The orientation of the buildings makes best use of the site topography, with windows framing views of the surrounding land and seascapes. The modular steel frame buildings are clad with fibre reinforced plastic panels and raised above ground on legs to protect rare mosses and lichens which grow on the site. The layouts include areas for recreation and relaxation within a comfortable, uplifting environment designed to sustain both the community and the individual alike. The design limits the station’s environmental impact and makes best use of renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions.
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