IUDD graduates win Europan 18 competition

Agustín Azar (graduate of IUDD), Egor Gaydukov (graduate of IUDD) and Uliana Zhomnir (graduate of Master programme in Architecture), with joint contributor Nicolás Schusterman (Bachelor student in Architecture at Torcuato Di Tella University / University of Buenos Aires) are winners of the 2025 EUROPAN 18 competition.

Their contribution »Care Blanket« has been awarded the winner for their contribution for the city Vitoria-Gasteiz (258.000 habitants), the capital of the Basque Country and province of Alava in northern Spain. Their design proposals contribute to a clear strategy with a focus on social and ecological urban and architectural design for the rehabilitation of housing blocks from the 1960s and `70s. 

A compact and effective model for urban and architectural rehabilitation 

»Care Blanket« proposes a modular façade system that upgrades existing buildings in terms of energy efficiency using resource-saving, prefabricated elements. Cork and wood panels improve insulation, new balconies create additional outdoor space, and roofs are activated for solar energy and rainwater harvesting. The ground floors are developed into communal infrastructure for the neighbourhood. The approach is scalable, can be applied at both the building and neighbourhood level, and actively involves residents in the design process.

High ecological impact – with minimal intervention

The project achieves energy efficiency class A, reduces heating requirements by 78 per cent and cuts CO₂ emissions to 8 kg/m² per year. Thanks to dry installation, residents can remain in their homes during the renovation; the construction period is reduced to a few weeks.

The result is a model neighbourhood for over 500 similar housing estates in the region – an example of how existing buildings can become the starting point for socially equitable and climate-positive urban development.

Europan is one of the most important international ideas competitions for young architects and urban planners under the age of 40. Every two years, teams develop innovative solutions for real locations in European cities. The 18th edition was themed ‘Living Cities’ and focused on sustainable, resilient and community-oriented urban strategies.

Further information on the competition and the winning entries: 
https://www.europan-europe.eu/en/session/europan-18/results/by-sites/vitoria-gasteiz-es-1