There, the project by ProfessorMaría Eugenia Puppo, Architect Paula Barrios, and Architect Pablo Fregosi—all graduates of the Architecture program at Universidad ORT Uruguay, was awarded third prize.
The Mariano Arana Cultural Center is a project that promises to become a landmark in Montevideo’s cultural landscape. This competition sought to select architectural proposals that would harmoniously integrate a cultural center into the urban environment while also being sustainable from both an energy and economic standpoint.
Winners and Honorable Mentions from mvdtv on Vimeo.
A total of 53 preliminary designs were submitted. Among the most notable entries was the proposal by architect and professor María Eugenia Puppo, recent graduates Paula Barrios and Pablo Fregosi, and the /slantis team—comprising Nicolás Franco Schicke, Jerónimo Berrutti, Emanuel Silva, Delfina Sena, Emilio Bartolini, and Mariana Dutiné—who won Third Prize in this prestigious competition.
The project and its team
With a strong academic background, including a Master’s degree in Architectural Research from the University of Valladolid in Spain, María Eugenia Puppo, who earned her architecture degree from Universidad ORT Uruguay, has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and innovation in architectural design throughout her career.
In addition to her work as an instructor for the courses “The Formation of the Region” and “Introduction to Contemporary Architecture” at the School of Architecture at Universidad ORT Uruguay, María Eugenia Puppo is an architect at /slantis, the prestigious Uruguayan firm that encouraged them to enter the competition.
- You might also be interested in reading: "The firm /slantis, founded by architects Andy Robert and Mercedes Carriquiry, is leading the technological revolution in architecture"
The project submitted by the professor and ORT graduates in the Architectural Concept Competition for the Mariano Arana Cultural Center stands out for its creative approach and meticulous attention to detail. Their proposal aligns perfectly with the competition’s objectives, which sought not only harmonious integration into the urban environment but also a focus on energy efficiency and economic sustainability. In this regard, Puppo noted on his LinkedIn profile:
It's amazing to work in an environment that encourages these ideas, creativity, and teamwork.
Awards Ceremony for the Architectural Concept Design Competition from mvdtv on Vimeo.
The competition jury recognized the merit of María Eugenia Puppo’s entry by awarding her Third Prize, a significant achievement that highlights the quality and originality of her work. The other prizes announced were:
First Prize: The “Conciencia 2” team submitted a proposal that captivated the jury with its innovation and forward-thinking vision. Their design reflects a deep understanding of the interaction between architectural space and the urban environment, and proposes sustainable solutions that could serve as a model for future projects.
Second Prize: The “Klapaucius” team stood out for its focus on energy efficiency and the use of clean technologies. Their design demonstrates a strong environmental awareness and a commitment to the conservation of natural resources.
Honorable Mentions: In addition to the main prizes, the jury awarded honorable mentions to outstanding entries that deserve recognition for their contribution to the competition. Among them is the “Liquen 3” team, whose focus on sustainability and innovation earned praise from the jury.