Regaining a sense of belonging
Agua de mayo
Agua de mayo: Preserving the traditions of Córdoba in a contemporary lifestyle
Agua de Mayo is a project that addresses the need to disconnect from the fast-paced, technology-driven lifestyle of the 21st century while preserving endangered traditions from Córdoba, Andalusia. It highlights the heritage of Córdoba’s casas-patio, renowned for their cultural, historical, and artisanal value. The project features a collection of table linens and tableware, blending art, craftsmanship, and design to celebrate and revive this unique way of life.
Spain
Local
Córdoba, Spain
It addresses urban-rural linkages
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Early concept
No
No
As an individual
Agua de Mayo is a creative design proposal featuring a collection of table linens and tableware that addresses the need to disconnect from the frenetic, technology-driven lifestyle of the 21st century while reviving the traditional lifestyle of Córdoba's casas-patio, which is at risk of extinction.
The casa-patio is a home organized around a central patio (a garden) that serves as a communal space for families. In the 19th and 20th centuries, this layout fostered strong relationships among residents, making the patio a gathering place for support and celebration. Today, this lifestyle has largely vanished; while some patios are maintained, it is often for tourism.
The project targets two groups: young adults from Córdoba, aged 25 to 40, who have not experienced this lifestyle, and those older adults who participated in it and wish to reminisce.
The primary goal is to create products that promote the recovery of traditional values from Córdoba's casas-patio while celebrating local festivities. It offers an alternative for users to disconnect from the fast-paced modern lifestyle and encourages stronger human relationships. The project is committed to environmentally responsible production.
Few Córdoba families live in houses with patios that restore traditional casas-patio values. Therefore, the project aims to inspire users to enjoy these products during special occasions. That is why this collection focuses on mealtime, a vital moment for socializing in Spanish society. By offering handcrafted tablecloths, table runners, and plates, the collection invites users to reflect on the importance of community and connection with the past, enriching the present experience. The beauty of craftsmanship merges art and design, emphasizing that looking to the past is essential for building the future.
The casa-patio is a home organized around a central patio (a garden) that serves as a communal space for families. In the 19th and 20th centuries, this layout fostered strong relationships among residents, making the patio a gathering place for support and celebration. Today, this lifestyle has largely vanished; while some patios are maintained, it is often for tourism.
The project targets two groups: young adults from Córdoba, aged 25 to 40, who have not experienced this lifestyle, and those older adults who participated in it and wish to reminisce.
The primary goal is to create products that promote the recovery of traditional values from Córdoba's casas-patio while celebrating local festivities. It offers an alternative for users to disconnect from the fast-paced modern lifestyle and encourages stronger human relationships. The project is committed to environmentally responsible production.
Few Córdoba families live in houses with patios that restore traditional casas-patio values. Therefore, the project aims to inspire users to enjoy these products during special occasions. That is why this collection focuses on mealtime, a vital moment for socializing in Spanish society. By offering handcrafted tablecloths, table runners, and plates, the collection invites users to reflect on the importance of community and connection with the past, enriching the present experience. The beauty of craftsmanship merges art and design, emphasizing that looking to the past is essential for building the future.
Product design
Tradition
Córdoba's casas-patio
Craftsmanship
Lifestyle
The primary objective in terms of sustainability of the project was to design a product that would be long-lasting and, therefore, reusable. This led to the idea of creating objects that not only allow repeated use but, due to their exclusive and artisanal production process, acquire significant value, becoming heirlooms passed down through generations. By emphasizing craftsmanship and uniqueness, the project seeks to foster a deeper emotional connection between the user and the product, encouraging a sense of appreciation and longevity. Additionally, given the nature of table linens and tableware, the designed pieces offer versatility beyond mealtime, seamlessly integrating into various aspects of daily life.
At the same time, great effort was made to minimize the project’s environmental impact. To achieve this, traditional craftsmanship techniques were prioritized, ensuring the use of natural materials while avoiding the reliance on industrial machinery. This approach not only aligned with sustainability principles but also played a crucial role in preserving local traditions at risk of disappearing. By supporting artisans and maintaining heritage techniques, the project contributes to both environmental responsibility and cultural continuity, reinforcing the importance of valuing and safeguarding historical craftsmanship for future generations.
As a result, Agua de Mayo stands as an exemplary model of sustainability by demonstrating that innovation does not always require technological advancement but can instead be found in the revival of traditional methods. Through a commitment to durability, ethical production, and cultural preservation, the project offers a holistic approach to sustainability—one that respects both the environment and the rich artisanal heritage that defines Córdoba’s identity.
At the same time, great effort was made to minimize the project’s environmental impact. To achieve this, traditional craftsmanship techniques were prioritized, ensuring the use of natural materials while avoiding the reliance on industrial machinery. This approach not only aligned with sustainability principles but also played a crucial role in preserving local traditions at risk of disappearing. By supporting artisans and maintaining heritage techniques, the project contributes to both environmental responsibility and cultural continuity, reinforcing the importance of valuing and safeguarding historical craftsmanship for future generations.
As a result, Agua de Mayo stands as an exemplary model of sustainability by demonstrating that innovation does not always require technological advancement but can instead be found in the revival of traditional methods. Through a commitment to durability, ethical production, and cultural preservation, the project offers a holistic approach to sustainability—one that respects both the environment and the rich artisanal heritage that defines Córdoba’s identity.
The primary objective of the project, in terms of aesthetics and quality, was to create a product that embodies the distinctive essence of Córdoba’s casas-patio. After conducting extensive theoretical and practical research, a team of local artists and artisans was assembled to showcase Córdoba’s rich talent and craftsmanship. This collaboration preserves local traditions while offering users a sensory and emotional aesthetic experience as they acquire unique, high-value pieces. Developing the products required careful synthesis of all gathered information, leading to deliberate decisions on composition, color, and materials.
Furthermore, it was essential for this project to encourage shared moments of gathering, just as people once did in the casas-patio. To this end, the collection was designed around mealtime, a key moment for social connection in Spanish culture. Though rooted in Córdoba’s heritage, it welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, fostering a sense of community. In this way, it serves as a bridge for people worldwide to discover and appreciate the unique lifestyle of Córdoba’s traditional patios.
Beyond its aesthetic and social dimensions, the project invites users to reflect on contemporary living habits and consider adopting new practices that enhance their quality of life. Agua de Mayo creates an atmosphere of serenity, mindfulness, and well-being, prompting individuals to question the pace of modern life and reconnect with what truly matters. It encourages a reevaluation of daily routines, inspiring a slower, more intentional way of living.
Ultimately, the project is an exemplary model in aesthetics and quality. Its meticulous attention to detail, commitment to traditional craftsmanship, and ability to merge beauty with purpose result in a collection that transcends mere functionality. Each piece is visually striking and meaningful, fostering an appreciation for artistry, heritage and the power of human connection.
Furthermore, it was essential for this project to encourage shared moments of gathering, just as people once did in the casas-patio. To this end, the collection was designed around mealtime, a key moment for social connection in Spanish culture. Though rooted in Córdoba’s heritage, it welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, fostering a sense of community. In this way, it serves as a bridge for people worldwide to discover and appreciate the unique lifestyle of Córdoba’s traditional patios.
Beyond its aesthetic and social dimensions, the project invites users to reflect on contemporary living habits and consider adopting new practices that enhance their quality of life. Agua de Mayo creates an atmosphere of serenity, mindfulness, and well-being, prompting individuals to question the pace of modern life and reconnect with what truly matters. It encourages a reevaluation of daily routines, inspiring a slower, more intentional way of living.
Ultimately, the project is an exemplary model in aesthetics and quality. Its meticulous attention to detail, commitment to traditional craftsmanship, and ability to merge beauty with purpose result in a collection that transcends mere functionality. Each piece is visually striking and meaningful, fostering an appreciation for artistry, heritage and the power of human connection.
The main objective in terms of inclusion was to ensure it is inclusive and affordable for everyone. To achieve this, a series of products were designed that, by their nature, are accessible to people with and without disabilities. Attention was given to the ease of handling the final products; for the tableware, lightweight ceramic was chosen to facilitate use. Consideration was also given to individuals with visual impairments, ensuring that using these products provides a sensory experience through various materials and pleasing textures. In terms of affordability, while the products carry a higher price point due to their unique production methods, their durability means that only an initial investment is necessary.
Moreover, the project seeks to empower the artisan community, which is currently in decline. Craftsmanship reflects the identity of the people, making its preservation essential for cultural heritage and community values. By involving local artisans, the project supports their livelihoods and reinforces the importance of traditional skills.
Finally, this initiative aims to promote a new way of living together, contrasting the prevalent individualistic lifestyle. It highlights the communal spirit of traditional casas-patio, encouraging users to reflect on their social interactions. By showcasing this tradition, the project invites individuals from various backgrounds to embrace the values of community, inclusivity, and support.
This project exemplifies inclusivity by ensuring that its products are designed for a diverse range of users, considering various abilities and needs. By focusing on accessibility in both functionality and affordability, it empowers individuals to participate in communal experiences. The thoughtful integration of sensory elements further enhances the usability of the products, making them inviting and enjoyable for everyone. Ultimately, this project fosters a sense of belonging and encourages a more inclusive society.
Moreover, the project seeks to empower the artisan community, which is currently in decline. Craftsmanship reflects the identity of the people, making its preservation essential for cultural heritage and community values. By involving local artisans, the project supports their livelihoods and reinforces the importance of traditional skills.
Finally, this initiative aims to promote a new way of living together, contrasting the prevalent individualistic lifestyle. It highlights the communal spirit of traditional casas-patio, encouraging users to reflect on their social interactions. By showcasing this tradition, the project invites individuals from various backgrounds to embrace the values of community, inclusivity, and support.
This project exemplifies inclusivity by ensuring that its products are designed for a diverse range of users, considering various abilities and needs. By focusing on accessibility in both functionality and affordability, it empowers individuals to participate in communal experiences. The thoughtful integration of sensory elements further enhances the usability of the products, making them inviting and enjoyable for everyone. Ultimately, this project fosters a sense of belonging and encourages a more inclusive society.
The individuals benefiting from or affected by the project have been involved in its creation process from start to finish, albeit in different ways.
First, the lifestyle of the target audience has been thoroughly studied. This analysis encompassed both contemporary societal habits and those specific to traditional casas-patio. As a result, the needs of the project's target audience and the best practices from casas-patio to replicate have been clearly identified. In addition, on-site visits to the patios of Córdoba have been conducted to assess their current condition.
Furthermore, the project collaborates with local artisans and artists, whose contributions significantly enhance the final outcome. The creation of the products has been a co-design process, where each team member has shared their unique expertise and perspective. The artist was given the freedom to determine the style of the illustrations, while the artisans decided on the most suitable methods for producing each item. In this way, the participation of these artists and artisans is officially acknowledged and compensated.
First, the lifestyle of the target audience has been thoroughly studied. This analysis encompassed both contemporary societal habits and those specific to traditional casas-patio. As a result, the needs of the project's target audience and the best practices from casas-patio to replicate have been clearly identified. In addition, on-site visits to the patios of Córdoba have been conducted to assess their current condition.
Furthermore, the project collaborates with local artisans and artists, whose contributions significantly enhance the final outcome. The creation of the products has been a co-design process, where each team member has shared their unique expertise and perspective. The artist was given the freedom to determine the style of the illustrations, while the artisans decided on the most suitable methods for producing each item. In this way, the participation of these artists and artisans is officially acknowledged and compensated.
The project has an approach that is entirely based on the tradition from Córdoba and its casas-patio. To achieve this, the project engages with local networks in various ways. First, it analyzes both current and traditional lifestyles through bibliographic studies and analyses conducted from on-site visits to the city. Furthermore, the project aims to influence the local environment by encouraging a return to its origins.
While the project is designed for an initial distribution in Córdoba, its expansion beyond the city would be both possible and beneficial. This would allow the exemplary lifestyle of Córdoba's casas-patio to be known beyond local boundaries. To facilitate this, a robust network of commercial contacts and design collaborations would be essential for effective dissemination. This would have a very positive local impact, benefiting both the tourism and industrial sectors of Córdoba.
The project’s commitment not only fosters the preservation of local culture but also strengthens the community by involving its members in the process. This approach adds value by promoting a sense of belonging and pride among residents while generating economic opportunities. By connecting tradition with innovation, the project enriches cultural heritage and creates a sustainable model that can be replicated in other regions, promoting inclusive and environmentally respectful development.
While the project is designed for an initial distribution in Córdoba, its expansion beyond the city would be both possible and beneficial. This would allow the exemplary lifestyle of Córdoba's casas-patio to be known beyond local boundaries. To facilitate this, a robust network of commercial contacts and design collaborations would be essential for effective dissemination. This would have a very positive local impact, benefiting both the tourism and industrial sectors of Córdoba.
The project’s commitment not only fosters the preservation of local culture but also strengthens the community by involving its members in the process. This approach adds value by promoting a sense of belonging and pride among residents while generating economic opportunities. By connecting tradition with innovation, the project enriches cultural heritage and creates a sustainable model that can be replicated in other regions, promoting inclusive and environmentally respectful development.
The project takes a completely multidisciplinary approach. As such, individuals with diverse educational backgrounds have been required throughout the entire creation process.
Firstly, a designer was needed to conduct all the research and ideation for the proposal. The designer has acted as a link between the other professionals involved in the project. Additionally, a local artist was engaged to create the illustrations that form the patterns on the table linens. While following the designer's guidance, she was given the freedom to apply her own style, thus leaving her essence in the project. Finally, local artisans worked under the designer's instructions to produce the final objects.
Looking to the future, the project would adopt an interdisciplinary approach, as collaborating with the Córdoba city council, various associations, and even tourism offices would be necessary and highly beneficial for implementing the proposal more effectively and practically.
The commitment to a multidisciplinary framework not only enhances the project's creativity but also fosters collaboration between different sectors, enriching the final outcome. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, the project can better address the needs of the community while promoting cultural heritage. This inclusive approach strengthens local ties and ensures the sustainability of the initiative, allowing it to thrive in a broader context.
Firstly, a designer was needed to conduct all the research and ideation for the proposal. The designer has acted as a link between the other professionals involved in the project. Additionally, a local artist was engaged to create the illustrations that form the patterns on the table linens. While following the designer's guidance, she was given the freedom to apply her own style, thus leaving her essence in the project. Finally, local artisans worked under the designer's instructions to produce the final objects.
Looking to the future, the project would adopt an interdisciplinary approach, as collaborating with the Córdoba city council, various associations, and even tourism offices would be necessary and highly beneficial for implementing the proposal more effectively and practically.
The commitment to a multidisciplinary framework not only enhances the project's creativity but also fosters collaboration between different sectors, enriching the final outcome. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, the project can better address the needs of the community while promoting cultural heritage. This inclusive approach strengthens local ties and ensures the sustainability of the initiative, allowing it to thrive in a broader context.
The project is innovative precisely because of its traditional character, which stands out against the advanced technologies available today. Often, these technologies lead to rapid reproduction, causing most of the objects surrounding us to lack personality and meaning. The project offers a poetic and nostalgic vision of design, guided by the beauty inherent in imperfection and the human touch. In this way, it returns to the primitive origins of design: the blend of architecture, art, and craftsmanship.
Agua de Mayo is a project where the human hand is directly present and easily noticeable throughout all phases of development. Thus, the values of the casas-patio are recovered not only in the final product but also during the entire creative process.
The project begins with a thorough, on-site analysis of the architecture of casas-patio. This process determines which visual elements best represent the aesthetics of these unique structures, which are then incorporated into the final designs. A local artist is commissioned to create original watercolor illustrations of floral motifs, drawing direct inspiration from the traditional aesthetics of the casas-patio studied earlier. These illustrations are included in the table linens, which are also crafted by a local seamstress. The ceramic plates are produced by two local artisans, whose workshop is located in a patio.
In conclusion, the project humanizes society, as the imperfections inherent in the human touch, which are clearly present in the final products, ultimately reflect the imperfections of mankind.
Agua de Mayo is a project where the human hand is directly present and easily noticeable throughout all phases of development. Thus, the values of the casas-patio are recovered not only in the final product but also during the entire creative process.
The project begins with a thorough, on-site analysis of the architecture of casas-patio. This process determines which visual elements best represent the aesthetics of these unique structures, which are then incorporated into the final designs. A local artist is commissioned to create original watercolor illustrations of floral motifs, drawing direct inspiration from the traditional aesthetics of the casas-patio studied earlier. These illustrations are included in the table linens, which are also crafted by a local seamstress. The ceramic plates are produced by two local artisans, whose workshop is located in a patio.
In conclusion, the project humanizes society, as the imperfections inherent in the human touch, which are clearly present in the final products, ultimately reflect the imperfections of mankind.
The project employs a two-part methodology: one theoretical and one practical.
The theoretical phase commenced with a comprehensive literature review on key topics essential to the project's understanding and development. Initially, research was conducted on the influence of technology on contemporary lifestyles and its impact on the preservation of local traditions. Additionally, a brief analysis of the socio-historical characteristics defining Andalusian society was undertaken. Finally, an in-depth examination of the origins and lifestyle of Córdoba’s casas-patio was carried out to clearly identify their fundamental values, best practices, and preservation needs.
The practical phase involved on-site visits to Córdoba’s patios to gather visual inspiration and document the cultivated plant species. Based on these visits and prior theoretical research, POEMS analyses were conducted to systematically and visually capture the defining characteristics of the casas-patio over time. Lastly, the initial product designs were developed, and prototype production commenced in collaboration with local artists and artisans.
The theoretical phase commenced with a comprehensive literature review on key topics essential to the project's understanding and development. Initially, research was conducted on the influence of technology on contemporary lifestyles and its impact on the preservation of local traditions. Additionally, a brief analysis of the socio-historical characteristics defining Andalusian society was undertaken. Finally, an in-depth examination of the origins and lifestyle of Córdoba’s casas-patio was carried out to clearly identify their fundamental values, best practices, and preservation needs.
The practical phase involved on-site visits to Córdoba’s patios to gather visual inspiration and document the cultivated plant species. Based on these visits and prior theoretical research, POEMS analyses were conducted to systematically and visually capture the defining characteristics of the casas-patio over time. Lastly, the initial product designs were developed, and prototype production commenced in collaboration with local artists and artisans.
Following the same methodology used for my project, Agua de mayo could be adapted and replicated in other places and among different groups of beneficiaries.
Through prior theoretical study, it would be possible to identify other local traditions at risk of extinction in Córdoba or any other city, allowing us to recognize their best practices and current needs. Once this information is identified, a creative project should be conceived to help recover these traditions while adapting to contemporary lifestyles. Once the idea is established, it would be crucial to create a team of local professionals to develop the project.
Additionally, Agua de Mayo could be distributed in cities outside of Córdoba, allowing the traditional lifestyle of its casas-patio to serve as an example in as many places as possible.
This adaptability underscores the project's value, as it encourages the preservation of local cultures and promotes shared knowledge across communities. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the initiative can inspire diverse regions to embrace their unique heritage while integrating modern practices, ultimately enhancing the cultural tapestry of each locality.
Through prior theoretical study, it would be possible to identify other local traditions at risk of extinction in Córdoba or any other city, allowing us to recognize their best practices and current needs. Once this information is identified, a creative project should be conceived to help recover these traditions while adapting to contemporary lifestyles. Once the idea is established, it would be crucial to create a team of local professionals to develop the project.
Additionally, Agua de Mayo could be distributed in cities outside of Córdoba, allowing the traditional lifestyle of its casas-patio to serve as an example in as many places as possible.
This adaptability underscores the project's value, as it encourages the preservation of local cultures and promotes shared knowledge across communities. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the initiative can inspire diverse regions to embrace their unique heritage while integrating modern practices, ultimately enhancing the cultural tapestry of each locality.
The project addresses several global challenges by implementing local solutions, including the following:
In a rapidly globalizing world, many local traditions and crafts are at risk of extinction. This project emphasizes the importance of preserving Córdoba’s unique casas-patio culture, encouraging the revival and maintenance of local heritage and craftsmanship. By focusing on local artisans and traditional practices, it combats cultural homogenization. Also the project promotes sustainable production methods by utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional craftsmanship, reducing reliance on industrial processes that contribute to environmental degradation. By designing durable, reusable products, it encourages a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns. Moreover, by creating accessible products for individuals with varying abilities, the project tackles issues of inclusivity and social equity. It promotes the idea that everyone, regardless of disability, should have access to quality products and shared experiences, fostering a sense of community. Furthermore, the initiative supports local artists and artisans, contributing to economic sustainability within the community. By providing fair compensation and creating job opportunities, the project enhances the livelihoods of those involved, promoting local economies over mass-produced alternatives. Finally, what is most important challenge, the project encourages communal gatherings and relationships, countering the isolating effects of modern, individualistic lifestyles. By inspiring people to share experiences, it strengthens social bonds and reinforces the value of community support.
By addressing these global challenges with local solutions, the project not only contributes to the well-being of Córdoba’s community but also serves as a model for other regions facing similar issues.
In a rapidly globalizing world, many local traditions and crafts are at risk of extinction. This project emphasizes the importance of preserving Córdoba’s unique casas-patio culture, encouraging the revival and maintenance of local heritage and craftsmanship. By focusing on local artisans and traditional practices, it combats cultural homogenization. Also the project promotes sustainable production methods by utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional craftsmanship, reducing reliance on industrial processes that contribute to environmental degradation. By designing durable, reusable products, it encourages a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns. Moreover, by creating accessible products for individuals with varying abilities, the project tackles issues of inclusivity and social equity. It promotes the idea that everyone, regardless of disability, should have access to quality products and shared experiences, fostering a sense of community. Furthermore, the initiative supports local artists and artisans, contributing to economic sustainability within the community. By providing fair compensation and creating job opportunities, the project enhances the livelihoods of those involved, promoting local economies over mass-produced alternatives. Finally, what is most important challenge, the project encourages communal gatherings and relationships, countering the isolating effects of modern, individualistic lifestyles. By inspiring people to share experiences, it strengthens social bonds and reinforces the value of community support.
By addressing these global challenges with local solutions, the project not only contributes to the well-being of Córdoba’s community but also serves as a model for other regions facing similar issues.
In the coming year, the first step would be to complete the production of all project prototypes. This phase would help identify potential improvements and further refine the concept.
Once the project is well-defined, the next step would be to develop and implement a business plan to ensure its successful execution, promotion and implementation. This plan should clearly outline the project’s target audience, value proposition, distribution channels, production timelines, and key activities throughout the process. It should also establish strategic partnerships essential for implementation and calculate the overall costs to determine appropriate pricing for the final products. After assessing the most effective market entry strategy—whether through pre-orders, limited collections, or another approach—the project would officially launch. Following this initial release, a reassessment would be conducted to identify areas for improvement and optimize future iterations.
Looking further ahead, there is potential to expand the project’s scope by incorporating other traditions from Córdoba at risk of disappearing. By researching and adapting these traditions into new designs, and always maintaining the poetry present in Agua de mayo, the project could continue preserving cultural values while making them relevant to contemporary lifestyles.
In conclusion, this future plan ensures that the project evolves sustainably while staying true to its original vision. By refining the prototypes, developing a solid business strategy, and exploring potential expansions, the project is set to grow organically. Its long-term success will depend on continuous evaluation, adaptation, and the ability to integrate new traditions while maintaining its core values.
Once the project is well-defined, the next step would be to develop and implement a business plan to ensure its successful execution, promotion and implementation. This plan should clearly outline the project’s target audience, value proposition, distribution channels, production timelines, and key activities throughout the process. It should also establish strategic partnerships essential for implementation and calculate the overall costs to determine appropriate pricing for the final products. After assessing the most effective market entry strategy—whether through pre-orders, limited collections, or another approach—the project would officially launch. Following this initial release, a reassessment would be conducted to identify areas for improvement and optimize future iterations.
Looking further ahead, there is potential to expand the project’s scope by incorporating other traditions from Córdoba at risk of disappearing. By researching and adapting these traditions into new designs, and always maintaining the poetry present in Agua de mayo, the project could continue preserving cultural values while making them relevant to contemporary lifestyles.
In conclusion, this future plan ensures that the project evolves sustainably while staying true to its original vision. By refining the prototypes, developing a solid business strategy, and exploring potential expansions, the project is set to grow organically. Its long-term success will depend on continuous evaluation, adaptation, and the ability to integrate new traditions while maintaining its core values.
