Bar Pesquero, one of the best-known restaurants on Palma’s waterfront, is being redesigned with a striking new look inspired by the port’s shipbuilding past.
Inspired by the old shipyards
The architects behind the project, Jordi Herrero and Eduardo García Acuña, say the design evokes the old shipyards along the quay, where the hulls of boats under construction once dominated the landscape.
A pergola like a ship’s frame
The centrepiece is a large slatted pergola, resembling the skeleton of a ship, which will cover the whole building along the harbour promenade. It is designed to:
- shade the large terraces from the sun;
- reduce noise from passing traffic;
- frame views of the neighbouring fish market and the cathedral.
The architects point out that shading — through pergolas, awnings or parasols — is a defining feature of Mediterranean architecture.
Materials with a maritime feel
- Laminated timber recalling ship hulls in dry dock.
- Marble strip flooring laid in geometric patterns.
- Plants and textiles inspired by fishing nets.
Glass walls beneath the pergola keep the interior open and bright while protecting it from the weather, creating what the architects describe as a light structure that responds to its maritime surroundings.
By night
After dark, carefully directed lighting will turn the pergola into a glowing structure visible from land and sea, designed as a counterpoint to the historic Llotja building across the waterfront, while avoiding light pollution.
The investment
The Balearic Ports Authority awarded a 16-year concession for the site after assessing the technical and economic proposals. The new operators will invest €2.9 million, including:
- extending and modernising the kitchens;
- improving accessibility;
- installing more sustainable building systems.
Bar Pesquero, next to the fishing quay, has long been a favourite for its views across the harbour. The redesign aims to give it a contemporary identity while keeping the connection with Palma’s working port.
