Supermarket in Mallorca, Spain, Built From Recycled Plastic and Concrete

A new supermarket in Mallorca, Spain, designed by Minimal Studio, has opened today, utilizing a brutalist architectural style and a commitment to circular design principles through the extensive use of recycled and repurposed materials.

The structure, dubbed “Plastic Box,” is defined by a monolithic concrete shell and a ceiling constructed from over a thousand recycled plastic crates. These crates aren’t merely aesthetic; they diffuse light, both natural and artificial, and integrate essential building systems like LED lighting, ventilation, and rainwater collection. The innovative design challenges conventional retail spaces and demonstrates the potential for sustainable building practices in commercial architecture.

Inside, the supermarket continues the brutalist theme with steel shelving, polished concrete floors, and sculptural checkout counters. Indirect lighting is used to highlight product displays, and reclaimed materials are incorporated throughout the space. This focus on material clarity and structural logic aims to create a functional and visually striking shopping experience. You can learn more about brutalist architecture and its defining characteristics.

The project represents a growing trend toward sustainable and innovative retail design, as architects and developers seek to minimize environmental impact and create more engaging spaces for consumers. Minimal Studio’s work aligns with broader efforts to promote the circular economy and reduce waste. Officials stated the supermarket is expected to serve as a model for future commercial developments prioritizing sustainability.