Thanks to this award, Daniel Isaac Villacís Jaramillo, responsible for the proposal, will be able to complete a six-month work placement programme in one of the architecture studios that was part of the jury (Batlleiroig or B-720), or receive a cash prize. Enrique Rovira-Beleta, architect and lecturer who attended on behalf of UIC Barcelona, collected the award for the University.

”Fábrica de creación AZ Arte” was proposed with the aim of linking the Esplugues de Llobregat centre city and the La Mallola residential area by creating an accessible and inclusive meeting area for cultural and community activities. Villacís Jaramillo was very excited about the Schindler España Architecture and Accessibility Award. “Winning an award like this, from an important company such as Schindler, reflects the hard work and dedication that went into the project and even more so when your teachers are supporting and correcting you so that the project becomes the kind of architecture that everyone can enjoy,” he said.

During the event, Schindler Iberia CEO José Manuel Nieto stressed the importance of architecture for society “whose future is perceived in urban communities.” For this reason, he emphasised that initiatives, like these awards, would recognise projects to build “innovative, creative and sustainable solutions that promote universal accessibility.”

He also encouraged young architects not to lose the “notion” of accessibility when designing spaces. “The great challenge ahead is designing spaces that serve people, ensuring their autonomy and thus promoting equal opportunities,” Nieto affirmed.

Irene Villa, journalist, lecturer and adapted alpine ski athlete, victim of terrorism in 1991, was the guest of honour for the event. As the ambassador for this edition of the awards, Villa stressed that “these awards are necessary because they remove barriers and make dreams come true.”