Alternativas/Alternatives – XIII Spanish Biennial of Architecture and Urbanism

The thirteenth Spanish Biennial of Architecture and Urbanism (XIII BEAU) will be exhibited for the first time in the United States in Cooper Union’s Arthur A. Houghton Jr. Gallery.

The exhibition, entitled Alternativas / Alternatives, features 22 jury-selected projects completed between January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2015 by contemporary Spanish architects. The installation, which also includes an additional 20 shortlisted works, features large-scale image displays and audiovisual commentary about the winning projects, as well as drawing reproductions and architectural models.

Many of the works presented, under the categories of Heritage, Planning and Innovation, employ sustainable practices and rely on local materials. The projects – which vary from small-scale works, such as residential homes, to mid-size interventions, such as schools and public parks – showcase the ability of Spain’s architects to formulate innovative solutions with both a limited budget and modest resources.

The XIII BEAU’s selection showcases a breadth of talent from across Spain, not just its biggest cities. It also highlights some of the country’s practices on the rise.

In conjunction with this exhibition, a group of distinguished scholars will discuss Spanish architecture on Saturday, November 12.