The Puente Pavilion in Zaragoza was the epicenter of creativity and innovation during the IV Edition of the Itesal National Prize for Emerging Architects. This prominent event brought together professionals from the field of architecture and construction, with the aim of celebrating the best sustainable proposals in the sector. The event was attended by the Mayor of Zaragoza, Natalia Chueca, who emphasized the importance of promoting sustainable architecture.
The main prize was awarded to Víctor Jorgensen for his project “Carbonal Interrotto,” chosen from 27 proposals and deserving of a prize of 4,000 euros. Mayor Chueca highlighted the talent of the participants, while Armando Mateos, CEO of Itesal, thanked everyone for their contribution since the first edition of the competition. Mateos stressed the importance of recognizing projects that, in addition to being viable, meet the high values of the competition.
In addition to the main award, “Special Mentions for Constructed Sustainable Architecture” were awarded to two projects: the renovation and expansion of the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters of the University of Zaragoza, by Magén Arquitectos; and the Skyline Building in Plaza Europa, designed by Julio Clúa of Clúa and Longás Arquitectos and Francisco Mangado Beloki of Mangado Asociados. Both projects stood out for incorporating high-performance aluminum carpentry from Itesal.
René Sanz, Director of Institutional Relations, Circular Economy and Sustainability at Itesal, praised the quality of the proposals presented, highlighting the mission of the award to give visibility to young and innovative architects. Carlos Turégano, Dean of the Official College of Building Surveyors and Technical Architects of Zaragoza, emphasized the importance of stimulating creativity and excellence in architecture.
The award ceremony included a presentation of the jury composed of renowned professionals such as Enrique Jerez, Ferrán Calzada, José María González, Manuel Enríquez, and Mónica Domínguez. Víctor Jorgensen expressed his satisfaction at receiving the award and thanked Itesal for supporting young architects, highlighting the high level of his competitors.
The second prize, endowed with 2,000 euros, went to Marina Ponce and her project “The Structure of Habitar.” Three runner-up prizes of 500 euros each were also awarded to Juan Gaitán, Carmen Povedano, and Álvaro Pozo for their respective works.
The event concluded with a speech by David Gómez, President of Itesal, who praised the creativity and quality of the projects, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to the promising future of architecture in Spain.
Source: Portico.es in Spanish