APURO

Apuro is more than just a physical space. It is an experience that engages both body and spirit, offering a new vision of how architecture can serve the environment and the soul, creating a deep connection between humans, nature, and culture.
The project originates from the concept by Barbara Al-Farkh and is immersed in the natural beauty of Crato, Portugal. Its ability to combine aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability makes it an example of countercultural architecture capable of inspiring anyone who ventures into the Waking Life Festival 2024. 

Design and Materials 

The set design of Apuro is a fusion of natural and architectural elements. The structure is inspired by organic forms, such as scallop shells, and traditional construction techniques, like vaults and arches, which evoke the grandeur of temples and cathedrals. At the same time, this form is not merely an aesthetic act but an approach designed to harmonize with the surrounding environment. 

The primary materials used in the construction are Arundo Donax cane and mimosa, plants that grow abundantly in the surrounding areas. After being hand-harvested, the canes were treated to prevent mold formation, creating a structure that is both light and resilient. The secondary beams, which follow the undulating curvature of the roof, are made from mimosa branches, previously soaked in water to enhance their flexibility. The construction technique used is called “CanyaViva,” developed by Jonathan Cory Wright and popularized in collaboration with Barbara Al-Farkh, which allows for the revitalization of local materials, transforming them into functional and artistic structures. 

The roof, initially made from jute fabric, was later enhanced with a waterproof covering based on limestone fiber. This innovative technique combines natural hydraulic lime with a reinforced geomembrane mesh, creating a structure that is durable and long-lasting. The combination of these materials not only improves weather resistance but also helps maintain the building in harmony with its surroundings. 

The Sensory Experience 

Underneath the shelter, one is immersed in a profound sensory experience. The organic shape of the structure and the use of natural materials convey a sense of warmth and connection to the earth. The fluid, sinuous forms, along with the presence of arches and vaults, create a space that evokes the grandeur of a temple, while also providing the sensation of being enveloped, cradled, and protected by a vast maternal womb. At night, when darkness envelops the structure and the lights turn on, it seems to come alive, like a breathing organism. Thanks to the use of natural materials and its aerodynamic shape, every sound and word spreads gently, creating an ideal atmosphere for meditation, reflection, and rest. 

Credits 

Concept, design: Barbara Al-Farkh and Arqeas (using “CanyaViva” technique) 

Festival: Waking Life 

Light design: Samuel Tocci, Max Gaublomme