The architectural landscape of early twentieth-century Madrid underwent significant transformation through the urban planning efforts and building designs of José López Sallaberry. Active from his graduation in 1881 until his death in 1927, he applied a distinct Neoplateresca style and eclecticism to a wide range of civic projects, theaters, and residential developments across the Spanish capital.
Professional Beginnings and Academic Standing
Sallaberry began his formal training at the Higher Technical School of Architecture of Madrid in 1875. He earned his architecture degree six years later. His reputation within the professional community grew steadily, leading to his appointment as an Academician at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando in 1904. In 1888, he managed the site preparations for the Cementerio de la Almudena.
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His output included several notable performance venues, such as the Teatro Campoamor, Teatro Fontalba, and Teatro El Dorado. Following a fire in 1915, Sallaberry directed the restoration of the façade of the Teatro de la Comedia. His commercial and residential portfolio included the Edificio ABC Serrano, the Palacete de Eduardo Adcoch, the Hotel Senator Gran Vía, and the Casa Ruiz de Velasco. His work on the Casino de Madrid and the Banco Hispano Americano earned both sites the designation of Spanish Property of Cultural Interest.
Urban Planning and Final Years
Beyond individual building design, Sallaberry influenced the structural layout of Madrid. Starting in 1905, he collaborated with Francisco Andrés Octavio on the initial plans for a major central thoroughfare. His urban responsibilities also included supervising the relocation of the Fuente de Cibeles to its current site. He remained involved in these municipal projects until his death on 22 June 1927 at his home on the Calle de la Montera. He was buried at the San Isidro Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 16 December 1858, Madrid
- Died: 22 June 1927, Madrid
- Nationality: Spanish
- Education: Higher Technical School of Architecture of Madrid
- Notable Membership: Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando
- Notable Works: ABC Serrano, Teatro Fontalba, Teatro El Dorado
- Burial Site: San Isidro Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What stylistic approach characterized his buildings?
Sallaberry worked primarily in the Neoplateresca style and demonstrated eclecticism in his theater designs.
Did he work on urban planning projects?
Yes, he worked on the initial layout of a major thoroughfare starting in 1905 and managed the relocation of the Fuente de Cibeles.
Achievements
- Notable work: ABC Serrano
- Notable work: Teatro Fontalba
- Notable work: Teatro El Dorado
- Notable work: Palacete de Eduardo Adcoch
