BUILD Architecture Awards 2024 In a stacked design landscape, it is important for architecture firms to distinguish themselves from the competition. This is exactly what Costa Rica’s Salagnac Arquitectos has done with its contemporary tropical style, which brings together nature, climate, and human comfort, all in one setting. Founded by trained and qualified architects Evangelina Quesada and Lucca Spendlingwimmer in 2006, this firm expertly supports construction projects and measurably contributes to the wider architectural landscape. We speak with Lucca for more. Best Climate-Sensitive Architecture Firm 2024 & BUILD Excellence Award in Contemporary Tropical Architecture 2024 Salagnac Arquitectos Guided by the belief that contemporary tropical architecture is the key to striking the balance between a building and the environment, the team of Evangelina and Lucca nurture a form of design that achieves maximum human comfort and is equally kind to the environment. Through the likes of highly efficient energy consumption systems, climate-sensitive designs, and cuttingedge technology, Salagnac Arquitectos brings the environment, technology, and the desired aesthetic together in an appealing and innovative manner. Leveraging a personalised approach, Lucca describes every project undertaken as being, “unique and inimitable, carefully developed from architectonic analysis and research.” By keeping one eye squarely on the future of the industry, the firm is on a constant search for the next advancement in fresh, new materials that can take its projects to the next level, all whilst ensuring the gold standard for design and spatial quality is achieved. This was on full display across one of its most recent projects, Loma Sagrada House. Setting the scene, Lucca tells us that this property was previously devastated by livestock, but that swift generation of the topsoil over the winter meant that little movement of the land had to be carried out. This project is comprised of a number of different structures, beginning with the main house. Built on a 35-degree slope, Salagnac Arquitectos’ design for this building is a 100% wooden triangular structure, with the other buildings on the site, including a pool, ranch, and kitchenette, made from similar modular wooden structures. As Lucca explains, “at least 95% of the material for this project is wood, which is used for structures, floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture. 100% of the used wood is plantation-grown, positively impacting CO2 absorption and contributing to Costa Rica’s environmental goals.” As for where wood could not be used, Lucca tells us, “in humid spaces like countertops and showers, natural stone was used, and utilised further in both the garden and the pool.” Plants and food are also grown on the site, used not only by the owners, but also visiting animals. Since they work with clients stemming from a host of varied backgrounds in diverse locations, it is important for the team to begin any new project by assessing the climate, culture, and landscape, before proposing a project that is as harmonious as possible with the site. This approach fuels the business’ philosophy of, “architecture as an experience of connection with nature.” Any environmental or logistical challenges are thus viewed as opportunities for ingenuity, all underpinned by the same approach to quality and luxury. Salagnac Arquitectos’ uniquity stems from its ability to fully understand the desires of a client, before transporting this essence into an environment that is harmonious with nature, empowers them to live a healthier lifestyle, and ultimately nestles them within the unmistakable beauty of Costa Rica’s tropical environments. Moreover, for Lucca, “we differentiate ourselves through a proven track record of delivering projects with impeccable design quality, complemented by rigorous procedures and personalised attention.” When it comes to the future of the firm, Lucca hints at yet more analysis, research, and experimentation, all of which are demonstrably aiding the business when it comes to its building of beautiful and comfortable spaces that minimise the impact of the construction industry on the environment. Winning the National Award at the Biennale of Architecture in Costa Rica, the most prestigious architecture competition in the country held every two years, Salagnac Arquitectos is highly regarded as a leader in Costa Rican architecture. This second consecutive win is a great achievement for Salagnac Arquitectos as it continues to add accolades to its roster. At the very heart of Salagnac Arquitectos is a team of dedicated professionals who are wholeheartedly committed to architecture that is of an exceptional aesthetic value for Costa Rica’s breathtaking tropical regions. Thanks to its bioclimatic and sustainable commitments, this firm seamlessly blends a rich and vibrant culture with an equally remarkable environment, a feat for which it is being celebrated with these two well-deserved awards from us at BUILD. Contact Details Contact: Lucca Spendlingwimmer Company: Salagnac Arquitectos Web Address: https://salagnacarquitectos.com/
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