ARQUIVIO architects, Madrid, ES, Junior Architect

Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid (ETSAM), Madrid, ES, MArch, Architecture

One Drawing Challenge 2021 Special Mention: Most original Plan, Honorable Mention

w/ MArch Final Thesis: Reshaping The Hollowed-Out Countryside (ENG) Castilla La Marcha: Un resort para la España Motivada (ESP)

"Reshaping The Hollowed-out Countryside" by Gonzalo López

The uncontrollable growth of cities over the years has directly interfered with rural areas: small towns left behind due to lack of opportunities. Far from being the picturesque landscape we recall, the countryside is neglected and quickly turns into wasteland. This rural dilemma has taken a turn in the aftermath of the COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdown since nowadays more people seek a vacation in contact with nature far from the hustle and bustle of cities. However, rural areas are not equipped to sustain such incoming flow of population they so desperately need.

The strategy is to frame this unattended land through an inhabited wall and thus enhance its fertility. This new boundary treats the existing village as a redoubt to be preserved and in homage to its vernacular constructions the perimeter is bush-hammered revealing the stones beneath its surface and welcoming the new spaces. Framing to highlight its value.