Mexican architecture wins RIBA International Award for Excellence 2026
Two Mexican projects have won the RIBA International Award for Excellence 2026, awarded by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to 34 projects from 15 countries. Manuel Cervantes' KON-TIGO housing complex in Guerrero was built after Hurricane Otis in 2023 as a community reconstruction strategy, focusing on inclusive spaces and dignity. Estudio ALA's Mezcal Production Palenque in Jiquilpan de Juárez, Michoacán, led by Armida Fernández and Luis Enrique Flores, reinterprets vernacular architecture with laminated wood, brick, and low-impact environmental strategies. The project includes production areas, communal spaces, and a bio-pond for fire protection. Cervantes stated the award belongs to the families involved, emphasizing architecture's service to people.
Key facts
- Two Mexican projects won RIBA International Award for Excellence 2026
- 34 projects from 15 countries were selected
- Manuel Cervantes designed KON-TIGO housing in Guerrero after Hurricane Otis (2023)
- KON-TIGO focuses on community reconstruction and inclusive spaces
- Estudio ALA designed Mezcal Production Palenque in Jiquilpan de Juárez, Michoacán
- Estudio ALA is led by Armida Fernández and Luis Enrique Flores
- Mezcal Production Palenque uses laminated wood, brick, and low-impact strategies
- The project includes a bio-pond for fire protection and biodiversity
Entities
Artists
- Manuel Cervantes
- Armida Fernández
- Luis Enrique Flores
Institutions
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- Estudio ALA
Locations
- Guerrero
- Mexico
- Jiquilpan de Juárez
- Michoacan
Sources
- Arquine —