BRIEF

In Design Studio 3 with Igor Bragado, we explored the realms of spatial design and 3D modeling.

For our final project, my team—Selene Torres Covarrubias, Divya, and I—focused on the vibrant Guatemalan community in Madrid and their distinctive way of celebrating death, marked by colorful festivities and strong family ties.

Through our research, we identified a lack of communal spaces in Madrid where this community could gather, particularly to celebrate All Saints' Day. Recognizing the importance of connection, sustainability, and locality in their cultural traditions, we proposed a dismountable pavilion to be assembled annually at the Lady Almudena Cemetery, a site with a significant number of Guatemalan burials. After the celebrations, the structure could be repurposed in different areas of Madrid—such as parks or rooftops—serving various community needs.

PAVILION DESIGN & FUNCTIONS

The pavilion consists of six levels, each dedicated to a key aspect of Guatemalan heritage:

• Floor 1: Exhibition space for Guatemalan kites, a central tradition of All Saints' Day.

• Floor 2: Display of traditional Guatemalan textiles.

• Floor 3: Open space and kitchen for preparing and sharing fiambre, a traditional dish.

• Floor 4: Greenhouse for cultivating culturally significant plants like yuca.

• Floors 5 & 6: Open areas and kitchens for communal gatherings.

IMPACT

This project was an incredibly rewarding experience. We were honored to receive positive feedback from our professor and the jury, who praised the proposal for its practicality, cultural sensitivity, and comprehensive approach. They highlighted its ability to foster community, preserve cultural heritage, and create a meaningful space for remembrance—a testament to how design can bridge cultures and bring people together.