The Islote de Frances in Arrecife will be studied by the Swiss architectural team of Herzog and De Meuron, as the first step towards creating an iconic landmark for the capital. At present, this area of the city is home to several derelict warehouses and occupies one of the prime waterfront locations that has yet to be redeveloped.

Jacques Herzog will make a preliminary study of the site next Monday, accompanied by the site’s owner, Jaime Cortezo, various architects from Gran Canaria and a representative from the Arrecife mayor’s office.

The partnership of Herzog and De Meuron has already undertaken two major projects in the Canaries, namely the remodeling of the Plaza de España and the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, both located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. They have also been involved in prestigious projects such as the Allianz Arena in Munich and the Peking National Stadium which was used during the 2008 Olympic Games.