Aviles, Spain

The Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre in Avilés, Spain represents his only work in Spain. Opened in March 2011, the complex of buildings sits along an estuary, where its white curves create a striking contrast against the traditionally industrial landscape of the surrounding area. The centre hass four main structures: a 1,000-seat concert hall, an exhibition dome, an observation tower featuring a restaurant and cocktail lounge, and a multipurpose building housing a film centre, meeting rooms, café, and visitor information center. Conceived when Niemeyer drew a thick curve line on paper during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Prince of Asturias Awards in 2006, the design embodies his characteristic flowing concrete forms inspired by nature.