STONEGAL SUMMIT 2025

SUMMIT _ARQ. ARCHITECTURE AND STONE CONVERSATIONS

The “Architecture and Stone Conversations” will bring together some of the most influential architects and thinkers in the field to explore the role of natural stone in contemporary architecture. Through inspiring dialogues, in-depth interviews, and enriching debates, participants will share their vision of the potential of this timeless material in design and construction. Each conversation will address a key theme, from durability and aesthetics to innovation and sustainability, highlighting the versatility of stone in interior design, urban planning, and cutting-edge architecture.

The “Architecture and Stone Conversations” offer a forum for ideas and experiences where tradition and innovation converge. A space designed to explore the present and future of natural stone in architecture, featuring experts who are redefining the sector on a global scale.

GUEST SPEAKERS:

ARCHITECTURE AND STONE CONVERSATIONS

DAY 01 – TUESDAY, JUNE 3

CONVERSATION 01 | ETERNAL STONE | 10:00 AM

Exploring the resilience, timelessness, and relevance of natural stone in contemporary architecture.

  • Antón García-Abril – Architect, PhD in Architecture, and full professor at MIT’s School of Architecture and Planning. Founder of ENSAMBLE STUDIO, one of the most innovative studios in material use in contemporary architecture.

Conversation:

  • Mauro Lomba – Architect and founder of the creative space NEMONON, a laboratory where architecture, design, and art intersect to explore new possibilities.
CONVERSATION 02 | THE COLOR OF STONE | 11:00 AM

EMOTIONAL IMPACT OF NATURAL STONE.
The chromatic and expressive diversity of natural stone as an identity element in architectural design.

  • Belén Moneo – Architect and co-founder of MONEO BROCK STUDIO, known for projects that combine creativity, functionality, and bold material exploration.
  • Yaiza Camacho – Spanish architect, MONEO BROCK STUDIO

Conversation:

  • Marisa Santamaría – Founder of Global Design Innovation Trends Unit. Researcher, curator, and global design trends expert, with a focus on innovative materials.

NEW CONTEMPORARY IMPACTS OF STONE.
A conversation bridging two generations of architects, discussing natural stone as the core of contemporary design and architectural vision. Two generations working in unison.

DAY 02 – WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4

CONVERSATION 03 | ARCHITECTURE AND AUTHENTICITY | 10:00 AM
  • Carme Pinós – Spanish architect, graduate of the Barcelona School of Architecture. She combines her architectural work with teaching at various universities. National Architecture Award 2021, International French Award for Women Architects.

Conversation:

  • Luciano González Alfaya, Dean of COAG
CONVERSATION 04 | THE SENSITIVITY OF NATURAL STONE | 11:00 AM

Exploring the legacy, sustainability, and progressive momentum of natural stone in contemporary architecture.
NATURAL STONE AS AN ESSENTIAL MATERIAL IN CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE.

  • Eduardo Souto de Moura – Portuguese architect with over fifty projects in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany, the UK, and Switzerland. His works include the Braga Municipal Market, the Burgo Towers in Porto, and the Braga Municipal Stadium. Recognized with awards such as the Pritzker Prize, the FAD Architecture Award, the I Ibero-American Biennial Prize, and the Pessoa Prize.
  • Luisa Souto de Moura – Portuguese architect, graduate of the Escola Superior de Belas Artes de Oporto. Director of international projects in countries like France and Lebanon at EDUARDO SOUTO DE MOURA Studio.

Conversation:

  • Marisa Santamaría – Founder of Global Design Innovation Trends Unit. Researcher, curator, and global design trends expert, with a focus on innovative materials.
CONVERSATION 05 | MORE THAN A SKIN | 12:30 PM
  • Fernando De Porras-Isla-Fernández – Spanish architect. PORRAS LA CASTA Arquitectos
  • Lorenzo Fernández-Ordóñez – Spanish architect. ESTUDIO GUADIANA
  • Enrique Azpilicueta Astarloa – Spanish architect. University professor

Conversation:

  • Arturo López-Bachiller – Spanish architect
“STORIES OF ARCHITECTURE AND STONE, OR STONE AND ARCHITECTURE” | 1:30 PM
  • Pedro Torrijos – Writer, cultural critic, and Spanish architect

TECHNICAL VISITS – JUNE 3 (AFTERNOON)

FROM QUARRY TO CONSTRUCTION: THE NATURAL STONE EXPERIENCE

The STONEGAL SUMMIT technical visits will offer an immersive experience into the natural stone value chain, from extraction to its application in architecture and construction. Attendees will tour the Porriño and Salvaterra quarries, renowned for producing high-quality granite, where they will learn firsthand about extraction, selection, and sustainability processes in the industry. Additionally, visits to processing plants will showcase innovative cutting, polishing, and finishing treatments for commercialization in national and international projects.

The program will conclude with tours of iconic buildings in Vigo, where natural stone plays a key role in urban and avant-garde architecture. Participants will analyze restoration examples, integration into new constructions, and trends in sustainable design. This experience provides a strategic and technical vision of the sector, allowing attendees to explore the excellence of Galician stone and its applications in global markets.

STONE GALA + STONEGAL AWARDS – JUNE 4 (EVENING)

The grand night of STONEGAL EXPO & CONGRESS.

An exclusive evening blending culture, gastronomy, and audiovisual spectacle in a unique setting. The STONE GALA will be the crowning moment of the event, offering a one-of-a-kind sensory experience where the majesty of stone sets the stage for an unforgettable night.

During the gala, the STONEGAL AWARDS will be presented, along with the FIRST ANTONIO PALACIOS ARCHITECTURE PRIZE. A recognition of excellence, innovation, and sustainability in the natural stone sector.

A night to inspire, celebrate, and project the future of natural stone.