Strengthening Local Democracy and Inclusion
Sant Fermí Square Transformation
Climate‑resilient, accessible and community‑driven transformation of Sant Fermí Square
The comprehensive transformation of Sant Fermí Square creates a more inclusive, resilient and welcoming public space. The project adds shade with tensile sails, photocatalytic pavements, universal accessibility, a renewed stage and new gathering areas, strengthening community life and improving climatic comfort for all residents.
Spain
Local
Senyera
Mainly urban
It involves a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Yes
2025-12-01
No
No
No
Organisation
The project delivers a comprehensive, climate‑responsive and socially inclusive transformation of Sant Fermí Square, the main public space in the municipality of Senyera. Its goal is to improve environmental comfort, accessibility, cultural vitality and collective well‑being through a set of coordinated interventions implemented in two complementary phases.
The project introduces tensile shade structures that significantly reduce heat exposure during the hottest months, enabling year‑round use of the square. These structures block up to 98% of UV radiation, creating a comfortable microclimate and directly mitigating the urban heat island effect. Complementing this action, the new photocatalytic pavements—certified under ISO 22197‑1—improve air quality by reducing NOx and providing a durable, non‑slip, easy‑maintenance surface. Part of the original paving was reused, reducing waste and supporting circular construction.
Universal accessibility is a central pillar: a new compliant ramp, improved staircases, double handrails, tactile paving, continuity of surfaces and Class 3 anti‑slip pavements ensure safe, independent access for all users, including older residents and people with reduced mobility or visual impairments. The project also reorganises drainage through new channels and upgrades existing infrastructures to improve climate resilience during heavy rainfall.
The renewed stage and front seating steps expand the cultural and social capacity of the square, creating a flexible, inclusive space for performances, celebrations and community gatherings. Efficient LED lighting enhances safety while reducing energy consumption.
Long‑term, the project establishes the square as a resilient, inclusive and community‑oriented hub, strengthening local identity, enabling social cohesion, and serving as a replicable model for small municipalities seeking to improve climate adaptation, accessibility and public‑space quality through integrated, human‑centred design.
The project introduces tensile shade structures that significantly reduce heat exposure during the hottest months, enabling year‑round use of the square. These structures block up to 98% of UV radiation, creating a comfortable microclimate and directly mitigating the urban heat island effect. Complementing this action, the new photocatalytic pavements—certified under ISO 22197‑1—improve air quality by reducing NOx and providing a durable, non‑slip, easy‑maintenance surface. Part of the original paving was reused, reducing waste and supporting circular construction.
Universal accessibility is a central pillar: a new compliant ramp, improved staircases, double handrails, tactile paving, continuity of surfaces and Class 3 anti‑slip pavements ensure safe, independent access for all users, including older residents and people with reduced mobility or visual impairments. The project also reorganises drainage through new channels and upgrades existing infrastructures to improve climate resilience during heavy rainfall.
The renewed stage and front seating steps expand the cultural and social capacity of the square, creating a flexible, inclusive space for performances, celebrations and community gatherings. Efficient LED lighting enhances safety while reducing energy consumption.
Long‑term, the project establishes the square as a resilient, inclusive and community‑oriented hub, strengthening local identity, enabling social cohesion, and serving as a replicable model for small municipalities seeking to improve climate adaptation, accessibility and public‑space quality through integrated, human‑centred design.
The transformation of Sant Fermí Square began as a response to concerns raised by residents, local associations and the municipal technical team. Although the square had long been the social heart of Senyera, increasing heat, poor accessibility and deteriorated pavements reduced comfort and limited community use. Festivities, cultural events and daily gatherings were becoming difficult or unsafe.
A needs assessment confirmed the urgency of improving climate comfort and universal accessibility. The municipality launched a two‑phase intervention. First, the stage was renewed, a compliant ramp was built, levels were adjusted and pavements were improved to ensure safe, independent movement for older residents, families and people with disabilities.
The second phase focused on environmental improvement: tensile shade structures to reduce heat stress, photocatalytic pavements to improve air quality, upgraded drainage and efficient new lighting. Collaboration with specialised companies ensured technical quality, while community feedback shaped practical decisions such as shade placement and circulation routes.
As works progressed, residents quickly felt the change: cooler shaded areas encouraged everyday use, the renewed stage revitalised cultural activity and improved accessibility restored confidence for all ages.
Today, Sant Fermí Square represents the renewed identity and collective spirit of the village and demonstrates how environmental adaptation and inclusion can drive positive social change.
A needs assessment confirmed the urgency of improving climate comfort and universal accessibility. The municipality launched a two‑phase intervention. First, the stage was renewed, a compliant ramp was built, levels were adjusted and pavements were improved to ensure safe, independent movement for older residents, families and people with disabilities.
The second phase focused on environmental improvement: tensile shade structures to reduce heat stress, photocatalytic pavements to improve air quality, upgraded drainage and efficient new lighting. Collaboration with specialised companies ensured technical quality, while community feedback shaped practical decisions such as shade placement and circulation routes.
As works progressed, residents quickly felt the change: cooler shaded areas encouraged everyday use, the renewed stage revitalised cultural activity and improved accessibility restored confidence for all ages.
Today, Sant Fermí Square represents the renewed identity and collective spirit of the village and demonstrates how environmental adaptation and inclusion can drive positive social change.
Climate adaptation
Universal accessibility
Community activation
Inclusive public space
Photocatalytic pavements
The project addresses environmental, social and economic challenges through an integrated transformation that improves climate resilience, air quality, energy efficiency and long‑term durability of the public space. The tensile shade structures significantly reduce heat exposure in one of the hottest areas of the square, lowering surface temperatures and enabling safe use during summer months. This contributes directly to climate‑change adaptation by mitigating heat‑stress risks for vulnerable groups such as older people and children.
The new photocatalytic pavements, certified under ISO 22197‑1, actively reduce nitrogen oxides and improve local air quality while providing a long‑lasting, non‑slip surface that reduces maintenance needs. Part of the original paving was reused, decreasing construction waste and supporting more circular material flows. The project also integrates improved drainage systems that reduce flood risk during heavy rainfall and prevent deterioration of the new surfaces.
Energy sustainability is reinforced through the installation of efficient LED lighting with high luminous efficacy and reduced power consumption. This enhances safety while lowering operational costs for the municipality. The design prioritises robust, repairable and long‑life materials, reducing the environmental footprint throughout the project’s life cycle.
Social and economic sustainability is achieved by ensuring that the renovated square continues to serve as the main gathering space for community events, strengthening local cultural life and supporting small‑scale economic activity linked to public festivities. By combining environmental adaptation, material durability and accessible public space, the project stands as an exemplary model of sustainability for small municipalities facing climate challenges with limited resources.
The new photocatalytic pavements, certified under ISO 22197‑1, actively reduce nitrogen oxides and improve local air quality while providing a long‑lasting, non‑slip surface that reduces maintenance needs. Part of the original paving was reused, decreasing construction waste and supporting more circular material flows. The project also integrates improved drainage systems that reduce flood risk during heavy rainfall and prevent deterioration of the new surfaces.
Energy sustainability is reinforced through the installation of efficient LED lighting with high luminous efficacy and reduced power consumption. This enhances safety while lowering operational costs for the municipality. The design prioritises robust, repairable and long‑life materials, reducing the environmental footprint throughout the project’s life cycle.
Social and economic sustainability is achieved by ensuring that the renovated square continues to serve as the main gathering space for community events, strengthening local cultural life and supporting small‑scale economic activity linked to public festivities. By combining environmental adaptation, material durability and accessible public space, the project stands as an exemplary model of sustainability for small municipalities facing climate challenges with limited resources.
The project enhances the beauty, character and emotional quality of Sant Fermí Square by creating a harmonious, welcoming and visually coherent environment. The tensile shade structures introduce elegant and lightweight forms that provide comfort while adding a contemporary identity to the space. Their soft geometry complements the proportions of the square and creates a play of light and shadow that enriches the daily experience of residents.
The new pavements, composed of different modules and colours arranged in geometric patterns, visually unify the surface and elevate the aesthetic quality of the square. The photocatalytic finish ensures a cleaner, brighter and better‑maintained appearance over time, contributing to long‑term beauty and pride of place. The renewed stage and stepped seating create a clear cultural focal point, restoring the symbolic and functional role of the square as the heart of community life.
Aesthetics here is not limited to visual features: it also encompasses comfort, usability and the sensory experience of being in the space. The shade structures make the square pleasant even in the hottest months, encouraging people to stay, gather and interact. The improved lighting ensures a warm, safe and attractive ambience in the evenings, reinforcing the square’s role as a place of belonging.
By enhancing cultural usability, visual harmony and environmental comfort, the project fosters a deeper emotional connection between residents and their central public space. It exemplifies how aesthetic quality can strengthen local identity and contribute to a shared sense of care and stewardship.
The new pavements, composed of different modules and colours arranged in geometric patterns, visually unify the surface and elevate the aesthetic quality of the square. The photocatalytic finish ensures a cleaner, brighter and better‑maintained appearance over time, contributing to long‑term beauty and pride of place. The renewed stage and stepped seating create a clear cultural focal point, restoring the symbolic and functional role of the square as the heart of community life.
Aesthetics here is not limited to visual features: it also encompasses comfort, usability and the sensory experience of being in the space. The shade structures make the square pleasant even in the hottest months, encouraging people to stay, gather and interact. The improved lighting ensures a warm, safe and attractive ambience in the evenings, reinforcing the square’s role as a place of belonging.
By enhancing cultural usability, visual harmony and environmental comfort, the project fosters a deeper emotional connection between residents and their central public space. It exemplifies how aesthetic quality can strengthen local identity and contribute to a shared sense of care and stewardship.
Inclusion is at the core of the project’s vision: creating a public space where everyone—regardless of age, mobility, sensory ability or social background—can participate fully in community life. The design follows universal‑accessibility principles by integrating a new compliant ramp, improved staircases, continuous Class 3 anti‑slip pavements, tactile guidance surfaces and double handrails. These interventions ensure safe and independent access for older residents, people with disabilities, families with young children and all other users.
Affordability is addressed through durable, low‑maintenance materials that reduce long‑term operational costs for the municipality. By using robust paving, corrosion‑resistant structures and efficient lighting, the project ensures that the square remains accessible and functional without imposing financial strain on the community. The reuse of existing materials further reduces costs and promotes responsible resource management.
The project strengthens inclusive governance by responding to needs expressed by residents and local associations. Community feedback influenced key aspects such as circulation routes, shade placement and the organisation of seating and gathering areas. This collaborative approach reinforces trust between the municipality and residents and ensures that the space truly reflects collective priorities.
The renewed stage and gathering areas support intergenerational and intercultural activities—festivals, performances, public meetings and informal encounters—making the square a shared space where everyone feels welcome. By removing physical, social and climatic barriers, the project stands as an exemplary model of inclusion that demonstrates how thoughtful public‑space design can foster equality, participation and a stronger sense of community.
Affordability is addressed through durable, low‑maintenance materials that reduce long‑term operational costs for the municipality. By using robust paving, corrosion‑resistant structures and efficient lighting, the project ensures that the square remains accessible and functional without imposing financial strain on the community. The reuse of existing materials further reduces costs and promotes responsible resource management.
The project strengthens inclusive governance by responding to needs expressed by residents and local associations. Community feedback influenced key aspects such as circulation routes, shade placement and the organisation of seating and gathering areas. This collaborative approach reinforces trust between the municipality and residents and ensures that the space truly reflects collective priorities.
The renewed stage and gathering areas support intergenerational and intercultural activities—festivals, performances, public meetings and informal encounters—making the square a shared space where everyone feels welcome. By removing physical, social and climatic barriers, the project stands as an exemplary model of inclusion that demonstrates how thoughtful public‑space design can foster equality, participation and a stronger sense of community.
The project followed a participatory approach centred on the real needs expressed by residents, local associations and cultural groups who use Sant Fermí Square daily. Their concerns about heat, accessibility barriers and deteriorated pavements shaped the initial assessment by the municipal architect and defined the project’s priorities: shade, safety, comfort and renewed cultural usability.
Throughout design and implementation, residents contributed through informal consultations, conversations during community events and exchanges with local associations. Their feedback directly influenced decisions such as the placement and angle of shade structures, the layout of circulation routes, the configuration of the stage area and everyday‑use considerations. This ensured that technical solutions were grounded in how people actually occupy and move through the square.
Civil society organisations also highlighted cultural needs, emphasizing the importance of improving the stage and creating a more comfortable gathering space for festivities, performances and intergenerational events. Their involvement strengthened the project’s focus on fostering belonging and shared identity.
This participatory process produced concrete adjustments: shade was oriented to maximise protection during peak hours; paths were redesigned to better serve mobility‑impaired users; and open areas were organised to balance informal social use with community events. As a result, the renewed square reflects collective priorities, enhances community ownership and strengthens trust between residents and the municipality.
By embedding user‑driven input at every stage, the project demonstrates how small municipalities can apply participatory principles to deliver public spaces that truly meet people’s needs.
Throughout design and implementation, residents contributed through informal consultations, conversations during community events and exchanges with local associations. Their feedback directly influenced decisions such as the placement and angle of shade structures, the layout of circulation routes, the configuration of the stage area and everyday‑use considerations. This ensured that technical solutions were grounded in how people actually occupy and move through the square.
Civil society organisations also highlighted cultural needs, emphasizing the importance of improving the stage and creating a more comfortable gathering space for festivities, performances and intergenerational events. Their involvement strengthened the project’s focus on fostering belonging and shared identity.
This participatory process produced concrete adjustments: shade was oriented to maximise protection during peak hours; paths were redesigned to better serve mobility‑impaired users; and open areas were organised to balance informal social use with community events. As a result, the renewed square reflects collective priorities, enhances community ownership and strengthens trust between residents and the municipality.
By embedding user‑driven input at every stage, the project demonstrates how small municipalities can apply participatory principles to deliver public spaces that truly meet people’s needs.
The project demonstrates effective multilevel governance by coordinating stakeholders operating at different administrative and technical levels. The local government of Senyera led the initiative, defining priorities based on community input and commissioning the technical work. The municipal architect ensured alignment between political decisions, practical design choices and regulatory requirements, acting as a bridge between all actors.
Regional legislation and technical standards guided accessibility interventions, construction methods and public‑space design. Following these regional frameworks ensured compliance and turned the project into a practical example of how such regulations can be successfully implemented in small towns.
Specialised companies contributed expertise in structural engineering, tensile shading systems, photocatalytic materials, lighting technologies and drainage solutions. Their involvement empowered the municipality to incorporate innovation and high‑quality technical solutions beyond what local resources alone could provide.
National and European principles also informed the project. EU‑level priorities on climate adaptation, energy efficiency and universal accessibility shaped the approach even if the intervention was executed locally. The project therefore embodies alignment between local needs and broader policy directions.
The added value of this multilevel structure lies in combining grassroots priorities, specialised expertise and regulatory coherence. This ensured a result that is technically sound, sustainable and inclusive, while remaining deeply adapted to the identity and scale of Senyera. It shows how collaboration across levels can produce high‑impact transformations even in small municipalities.
Regional legislation and technical standards guided accessibility interventions, construction methods and public‑space design. Following these regional frameworks ensured compliance and turned the project into a practical example of how such regulations can be successfully implemented in small towns.
Specialised companies contributed expertise in structural engineering, tensile shading systems, photocatalytic materials, lighting technologies and drainage solutions. Their involvement empowered the municipality to incorporate innovation and high‑quality technical solutions beyond what local resources alone could provide.
National and European principles also informed the project. EU‑level priorities on climate adaptation, energy efficiency and universal accessibility shaped the approach even if the intervention was executed locally. The project therefore embodies alignment between local needs and broader policy directions.
The added value of this multilevel structure lies in combining grassroots priorities, specialised expertise and regulatory coherence. This ensured a result that is technically sound, sustainable and inclusive, while remaining deeply adapted to the identity and scale of Senyera. It shows how collaboration across levels can produce high‑impact transformations even in small municipalities.
The project applies a transdisciplinary approach by integrating expertise from multiple fields to address climate, social and functional challenges. Architecture and urban design structured the reorganisation of the square, ensuring coherent circulation, comfort and usability. Structural and civil engineering disciplines guided the redesign of the stage, ramp, foundations for the shade structures and the drainage upgrade.
Environmental sciences informed the use of photocatalytic pavements to improve air quality and reduce heat‑island effects. Climate‑responsive design shaped the geometry and orientation of the tensile shade structures, ensuring maximum thermal comfort during the hottest months. Material science supported the selection of durable, low‑maintenance solutions that reduce long‑term costs and environmental impact.
Accessibility specialists ensured that the project met universal‑design standards: continuous surfaces, tactile paving, compliant slopes and handrails provide safe mobility for all. Lighting engineering added efficient LED systems to improve comfort and safety while lowering energy use.
Social‑science perspectives contributed to understanding how residents interact with the space and how design changes could strengthen cohesion, cultural participation and intergenerational use. Cultural groups offered insights into community events and the symbolic value of the square.
Together, these disciplines produced an integrated intervention that addresses environmental adaptation, accessibility, community life and cultural vitality. The project shows how small municipalities can achieve high‑quality results by combining technical expertise with environmental innovation and community‑centred design.
Environmental sciences informed the use of photocatalytic pavements to improve air quality and reduce heat‑island effects. Climate‑responsive design shaped the geometry and orientation of the tensile shade structures, ensuring maximum thermal comfort during the hottest months. Material science supported the selection of durable, low‑maintenance solutions that reduce long‑term costs and environmental impact.
Accessibility specialists ensured that the project met universal‑design standards: continuous surfaces, tactile paving, compliant slopes and handrails provide safe mobility for all. Lighting engineering added efficient LED systems to improve comfort and safety while lowering energy use.
Social‑science perspectives contributed to understanding how residents interact with the space and how design changes could strengthen cohesion, cultural participation and intergenerational use. Cultural groups offered insights into community events and the symbolic value of the square.
Together, these disciplines produced an integrated intervention that addresses environmental adaptation, accessibility, community life and cultural vitality. The project shows how small municipalities can achieve high‑quality results by combining technical expertise with environmental innovation and community‑centred design.
The project is based on a financially sustainable public‑investment model tailored to the scale and capacities of a small municipality. Rather than relying on complex financial instruments, it combines durable construction, low‑maintenance materials and efficient infrastructure to ensure that long‑term operational costs remain low for the local administration. This approach strengthens the economic viability of the square while avoiding future financial burdens.
The initial investment was funded through municipal budgets and regional support schemes that prioritise accessibility, public‑space renovation and climate adaptation. This ensures that the project is not dependent on recurring external funding and can operate sustainably under the municipality’s normal maintenance capacity. The use of long‑life materials—photocatalytic pavements, corrosion‑resistant steel structures, durable LED lighting—substantially reduces replacement, cleaning and repair costs over time.
A key element of the business model is the reduction of energy and maintenance expenses. Efficient lighting lowers electricity consumption, while the shade structures reduce thermal stress on surrounding surfaces, indirectly lowering deterioration rates. The reorganisation of drainage systems decreases the likelihood of water‑related damage, reducing future repair costs.
The improved square enhances the attractiveness of Senyera as a venue for cultural events, local celebrations and community activities, generating indirect economic benefits for small businesses, local associations and the social fabric of the town. Although the project does not rely on direct revenue generation, its positive economic ripple effects strengthen local resilience.
By designing a space that is robust, energy‑efficient and inexpensive to maintain, the project ensures long‑term financial sustainability within a modest municipal budget while maximising social and environmental value.
The initial investment was funded through municipal budgets and regional support schemes that prioritise accessibility, public‑space renovation and climate adaptation. This ensures that the project is not dependent on recurring external funding and can operate sustainably under the municipality’s normal maintenance capacity. The use of long‑life materials—photocatalytic pavements, corrosion‑resistant steel structures, durable LED lighting—substantially reduces replacement, cleaning and repair costs over time.
A key element of the business model is the reduction of energy and maintenance expenses. Efficient lighting lowers electricity consumption, while the shade structures reduce thermal stress on surrounding surfaces, indirectly lowering deterioration rates. The reorganisation of drainage systems decreases the likelihood of water‑related damage, reducing future repair costs.
The improved square enhances the attractiveness of Senyera as a venue for cultural events, local celebrations and community activities, generating indirect economic benefits for small businesses, local associations and the social fabric of the town. Although the project does not rely on direct revenue generation, its positive economic ripple effects strengthen local resilience.
By designing a space that is robust, energy‑efficient and inexpensive to maintain, the project ensures long‑term financial sustainability within a modest municipal budget while maximising social and environmental value.
Several elements of the project offer strong potential for replication in other municipalities, especially small and medium‑sized towns facing similar challenges related to heat stress, ageing public spaces and accessibility deficits. The project shows how a modest intervention can deliver significant climate, social and cultural benefits through integrated design.
The methodology—starting with community‑identified needs, followed by a technical diagnosis and phased implementation—can be easily transferred to other contexts. Many municipalities face comparable issues: excessive heat, mobility barriers, limited shade, deteriorated pavements and insufficient lighting. The project provides a clear roadmap for addressing these challenges coherently.
The technologies used are highly replicable. Tensile shade structures can be adapted to different geometries, budgets and climates. Photocatalytic pavements, anti‑slip surfaces and modular paving units can be applied to squares, schoolyards, parks or pedestrian streets. The improved drainage strategy is suitable for regions experiencing heavy rainfall or climate variability.
The universal‑accessibility solutions—ramps with compliant slopes, tactile paving, continuous surfaces and double handrails—represent standardised elements that can be reproduced in many public‑space layouts. These interventions have a strong impact on inclusion and can be integrated into renovation plans in villages, cities or peri‑urban areas.
The project also provides transferable insights on participatory processes in small municipalities. Flexible, low‑cost community engagement—informal consultation, dialogue during events and collaboration with cultural groups—can be replicated without requiring complex structures.
Overall, the project demonstrates a scalable model of climate‑responsive, accessible and community‑driven public‑space transformation, adaptable to diverse geographies and budgets.
The methodology—starting with community‑identified needs, followed by a technical diagnosis and phased implementation—can be easily transferred to other contexts. Many municipalities face comparable issues: excessive heat, mobility barriers, limited shade, deteriorated pavements and insufficient lighting. The project provides a clear roadmap for addressing these challenges coherently.
The technologies used are highly replicable. Tensile shade structures can be adapted to different geometries, budgets and climates. Photocatalytic pavements, anti‑slip surfaces and modular paving units can be applied to squares, schoolyards, parks or pedestrian streets. The improved drainage strategy is suitable for regions experiencing heavy rainfall or climate variability.
The universal‑accessibility solutions—ramps with compliant slopes, tactile paving, continuous surfaces and double handrails—represent standardised elements that can be reproduced in many public‑space layouts. These interventions have a strong impact on inclusion and can be integrated into renovation plans in villages, cities or peri‑urban areas.
The project also provides transferable insights on participatory processes in small municipalities. Flexible, low‑cost community engagement—informal consultation, dialogue during events and collaboration with cultural groups—can be replicated without requiring complex structures.
Overall, the project demonstrates a scalable model of climate‑responsive, accessible and community‑driven public‑space transformation, adaptable to diverse geographies and budgets.
