DELTA

2 0 2 2

Delta investigates how architectural forms can arise in response to volcanic eruptions. Stimulated by the eruption on the island of La Palma, the project proposes the construction of a Research Centre for Volcanism on the newly created Delta. The project aims to develop a new architectural language for La Palma that speaks of its context by considering the surrounding landscape as the canvas of the design, the site of production, and the source of the materials used. The proposal addresses the current neglect towards the volcanic nature of the Islands, by exploring the potential of the materials created by an eruption. The centre serves as a fully equipped research station, enabling scientists to conduct on-site investigations in otherwise inaccessible areas. The project sits at the intersection of the imaginary and the possible, using a strict set of constructional and environmental rules to realise the strange organic forms.

Emerging from the dusty, fragile landscape, the co-dependant structure is both materially tough, yet lightweight and elastic: a new kind of responsive architecture for a hostile and unpredictable environment.