Recognising Women Architects in Costa Rica – 2024 Awards & Achievements
The Colegio de Arquitectos de Costa Rica proudly celebrates the outstanding contributions of women architects in design, research, and innovation. Several Costa Rican women architects have been recognized in national and international awards, showcasing their commitment to sustainability, urban planning, and architectural excellence.
Evangelina Quesada Corrales
Premio Bienal Nacional – Architectural Design (Unbuilt)
Project “RISE, ESCUELA WALDORF”
Developed in southern Costa Rica, it follows Rudolf Steiner’s educational principles, adapting to a tropical environment and growing with its community. The school’s design integrates with nature, featuring earth-based buildings for preschool and treehouse-style classrooms for older students, connected by hanging bridges. Using sustainable, locally sourced materials, the architecture fosters a healthy, eco-friendly learning environment that evolves organically with the community’s development.
Ana Sofia Hoch Sanabria
Premio Bienal – Urban and Regional Planning (Unbuilt)
Project “Índice Compuesto para abordar las Variables de Configuración Espacial de
Tierras de Cultivo a lo largo del Río Grande de Nicoya, Costa Rica”
The project analyses the spatial distribution of agricultural lands along the Río Grande de Nicoya, focusing on sustainability and accessibility to local centers. Using spatial syntax and statistical analysis, it highlights how road networks impact rural productivity. The research underscores the need for balanced proximity to markets, especially for small farmers, and reveals a historical neglect of rural spatial planning in Costa Rica. By mapping land connectivity and evaluating key variables, the study aims to enhance local agricultural productivity and economic development while promoting environmental and social sustainability.
Marianela Arce Fernández
Premio Bienal – New Generations (Unbuilt)
Project: “Paneles reciclados multifuncionales”
Multifunctional recycled panels offer a sustainable solution by repurposing plastic waste through 3D printing. Inspired by nature, these panels serve various functions, from decorative partitions to thermal insulation and vertical gardens. Designed to compete with traditional materials, they aim to reduce plastic waste and carbon footprints while providing aesthetic and functional architectural solutions.
Ana Sofía Hoch Sanabria / Arq. Natalia Bonilla Porras
Best exponents in “Encuentro Iberoamericano de Mujeres Ingenieras, Arquitectas y Agrimensoras 2024”
“Data analysis” (presentation)
Investigation about spatial configuration and natural human behavior, with a sustainable approach to solving spatial problems. That anticipate spatial challenges through simulations focused on human behavior, aiming to create sustainable cities.
María del Mar Soto Cedeño
Best exponents in “Encuentro Iberoamericano de Mujeres Ingenieras, Arquitectas y Agrimensoras 2024”
“Domestic Space and Gender Roles: A Contrast between Social Housing in Denmark and Costa Rica in the Second Half of the Twentieth Century” (presentation)
Investigation about domestic space and gender roles, a contrast between social housing in Denmark and Costa Rica in the second half of the twentieth century.
Marianela Mora Valenciano
Best exponents in “Encuentro Iberoamericano de Mujeres Ingenieras, Arquitectas y Agrimensoras 2024”
“Arquitectas de Costa Rica” (book)
Investigation about the first women in architecture in Costa Rica. The book highlights the importance of recognizing the work of women in architecture and other professional fields. It denounces the historical exclusion of women and advocates for real equality in society and the profession, emphasising that ability is not determined by gender.
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