Entrance to the reception area of Motel "El Hidalgo"

“El Hidalgo” was a pioneering project that introduced the concept of the motel to Spain. Though the motel concept derives from North America, in adapting it to the mentality and customs of the country, Spanish motels never became a direct copy of American types but were rather developed as roadside hotels. The Hidalgo was called a motel because the cars were to be parked close to the room, although the bill would be paid in the reception at the end of the stay.

The image shows an exterior structure with a marked functionalist style, characteristic of modern architecture of the mid-20th century. Lamela highlights design elements that combine in a simple way. The wide, flat roof that juts out like a canopy is supported by thin metal columns, creating a covered transition area that protects from inclement weather and welcomes visitors. On one side, the exposed brick wall provides texture and integrates naturally with the environment. This material adds a warm and earthy element that contrasts with the coldness of the cement and metal of the structure. In the background, you can see garden areas and decorative elements. The presence of a parked classic car reinforces the era and context in which this space was designed, evoking a time when modernist architecture sought to redefine the experience of the urban environment. The layout of the green areas and landscape elements seems designed to guide the visual route, integrating nature and construction.