The project is an initiative of the Casa Wabi Foundation and will be an arts center for children in the Oaxaca community.
Updated at Sep 9, 2020, 6:28 PM - Submitted at Sep 9, 2020, 6:28 PM
(João Morgado/)
The 1992 Pritzker Prize-winning Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza chose dried leaves and clay to create the new building for the Casa Wabi Foundation. The pavilion is located in Oaxaca, Mexico and was commissioned by Mexican artist Bosco Sodi, the organization's founder. The site It is intended for children in the region and will function as an arts center. 
This is Siza's first project in Mexico. It consists of three buildings, framed by a curved brick wall. Two of them are large kiosks without side walls. Their roofs were made from dried palm leaves, using the local technique. Palapa. The use of leaves for roofing is closely associated with vernacular buildings and is also present in Brazilian architecture. In fact, regional materials and construction processes were chosen so that the project could connect with its surroundings and serve as a monument in homage to traditions. 
In addition to the kiosks, the pavilion is accompanied by a 22m chimney, designed by the artist Alberto Kalach, and a smaller brick structure, where the toilets are located. 
The Casa Wabi Foundation is a non-profit civil society organization that seeks to stimulate social engagement through art. Founded in 2014, it operates two houses, one in Oaxaca, designed by Tadao Ando (Pritzker 1995) and one in Tokyo, as well as art spaces. exhibition. Famous contributors include Kengo Kuma and Ambrosi Etchegaray.