Fifth Edition 2015-2016

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Santiago Cirugeda (born 1971, Spain) develops subversive projects with distinct ambitions in urban settings, from the systematic occupation of public spaces to the construction of prostheses on façades, patios, roofs and lots. He negotiates legal and illegal zones as a reminder of the pervasive control to which we are all subject. He is now working together with local governments to implement new housing models for the socially disadvantaged. After 7 years of solo work to address issues like ephemeral architecture, reuse of materials and urban intervention, the incorporation of prosthesis constructed buildings or participation of citizens in the decision-making process, in 2003 he set up the office Recetas Urbanas (Urban Recipes). In 2007, Cirugeda presented the book Urban Situations, which shows legal strategies and social demands through architectural projects. In 2008 he presented the documentary Spanish Dr€am, which reveals the causes and effects of the housing bubble in Spain. In 2011, the book Collective Architectures portrayed Mobilize, the initiative consisting of dozens of groups to recycle containers from a dismantled temporary settlement, turning them into a multitude of self-constructed and self-managed spaces distributed throughout the Spanish territory and resulting in the eponymous network.

He has also participated in exhibitions worldwide, written many articles, and taken part in educational and cultural events including workshops, lectures, seminars, and conferences.