Elisava x ElBulli
This was a project developed
by a multi-disciplinary group of Elisava
students in 2017.
About
In the Spring of 2017, I was chosen to work for the Elisava x El Bulli Innovation lab, alongside a multidisciplinary team of designers, architects, engineers, and researchers in direct collaboration with Ferran Adria, to develop a new exterior space for Elbulli 1846. This space would replace the now-closed award-winning restaurant on Cala Montjoi with a hub dedicated to innovation and the creative process.
I contributed to the research, cartography creation, architectural renderings, presentation material design, and user experience concepts.
Process Phases
The team underwent a 3-month long research and prototyping process where we developed a series of potential solutions for the space, keeping in mind the terrain, weather, possible activations, and future visitors.
We were divided into smaller groups based on the phases of the project that we needed to tackle. In the first phase, we looked into the cartographies and histories of elBulli and those that were part of its world. We then connected this with research that was done into the actions and installations that could be relevant in coming up with what type of space we needed to design.
This later turned into a more physical iteration of what we believed could be objects that would become the design solution for the space. Since Cala Montjoi was a protected nature reserve, we couldn't exactly build into the terrain, but rather adapt structures to it, that could be taken down or used in their fullest activation.
Presentation
I also then helped design the final deliverable: a book showcasing the ‘infinite’ solutions for the space. Using independent research conducted with a fellow collaborator into creative spaces and museums that could serve as inspiration for what the space could potentially be.
© Ana María Toro 2020