The Brussels-based architecture duo BUREAUY and Francelle Cane have been selected for the 62nd edition of the Premio Termoli in the ‘Architecture and Design Section’category. This annual prize for contemporary art was founded in 1955.

Their submission, Paretenda, is one of 27 finalists – selected from more than 170 project submissions – after an international call for projects organised by MACTE - Museo di Arte Contemporanea di Termoli (IT), the organiser of this edition.

The competition involved developing a new bus shelter for the Termoli urban area. The jury favoured projects that were innovative, technologically advanced and sustainable, as well as conscious of the potential reuse of materials. Paretenda will be exhibited at MACTE starting on the 15^th of April:

‘When developing installations with such a clear public utility, like a new series of bus stops, the identity of the object inevitably becomes an issue. This issue is rarely simple; on the contrary, it involves the overlapping of complex elements, particularly, in this case, due to a diverse historical and cultural context.

Indeed, Termoli seems to be defined by a series of interdependent ‘dual’ identities. As the iconic trabucco attests, this place was once a hub of fishing culture along the southern coast of the Adriatic. In recent years, Termoli’s popularity with locals as a seaside resort has grown. The picturesque old town has been restored. It, along with the fortified castle, feed this influx of tourists. Beyond the railway tracks, however, a more modern way of living unfolds, one that sharply contrasts with life in the old town. Dig deeper and a more diffuse urban fabric gives way to agriculture and industry on the outskirts of the city, acting as a partner to the ocean-based fishing culture.

The design of the new bus shelter reflects this environment: it combines two distinct and contrasting elements, which are inspired by trivial architectural elements from everyday life, thus creating a new hybrid landmark.» — Extracts from the presentation

The winner of the Premio Termoli LXII – Architecture and Design Section’will receive a prize and collaborate with the municipality of Termoli, in order to integrate the project into the urban redevelopment plans for the area.