Playa Chica Apartments (Las Gaviotas)

Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Category: Architecture · Subcategory: Civil architecture · Year: 1972 · Authors: Luis Cabrera y Sánchez-Real

These 71 apartments attached to the cliff of Playa Chica, near the coast of Las Gaviotas, were designed in 1968 by the architect Luis Cabrera.  

The building has a simple layout: a central core distributing apartments on both sides. The complex rises ten floors above the beach base; the roof of the top floor serves as a car park. On the sea-facing façade, the balconies, from which magnificent views can be enjoyed, are arranged as small cubicles. 

Inside, open staircases lead to unique landings and corridors that in some sections feature the exposed rock of the cliff itself, creating a curious play of light and shadow. 

The construction of the apartments was completed in 1972 and since then this curious complex has served as a residence and retreat for a few fortunate people who enjoy a small beach located in the heart of the Anaga massif.

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