Casa Singer (Annex of the Canary Islands Parliament headquarters)

Santa Cruz de Tenerife · Category: Architecture · Subcategory: Civil architecture · Year: 1898 · Authors: Antonio Pintor y Ocete

This building is a clear example of the finest eclecticism in architecture erected in Santa Cruz at the end of the 19th century; a true aesthetic novelty for the city at that time. The project was developed by the architect Antonio Pintor in 1896, with the work fully completed at the beginning of 1898. It was the second residence owned by the wealthy businessman José Ruiz Arteaga on Castillo street.

Located in one of the most exclusive areas, this construction combines decorative elements both in stone and cast iron (frames, railings, columns), all visible to the passer-by, an unusual feature in the city until then.


The building has two spectacular façades. The one on Castillo street, richer in ornamentation, is divided into three parts by four pilasters. On the ground floor there is a portal with a semicircular arch and a double-leaf door crowned by a semicircular glass element. On both sides of this door we find an interesting wrought iron frame that inserts two semicircular portals. On the upper floor the windows open onto balconies enclosed by elaborate cast iron railings. All is topped by a straight cornice. The façade on Teobaldo Power street is similar, although somewhat more restrained.
 
As an anecdote, it is worth mentioning that the architect and the owner agreed that during the construction of the building the work would be hidden by means of awnings, which caused anticipation among the population to see its final appearance. When it was finally uncovered, on 28 January 1898, its appearance caused surprise and admiration. It was no less, they were facing one of the most spectacular constructions erected in Santa Cruz up to that time.  
 
For many years the commercial premises on the lower floor housed the store and workshops of Singer sewing machines, hence its name. Later, the building was acquired by the Canary Islands Parliament, undergoing, from then on, a profound transformation both inside and out. A new three-storey block was then added that has nothing to do with the original aesthetic of the building, leaving its old façade completely overwhelmed.

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