Pepe Gascón is a Barcelona-based architect and founder of Pepe Gascón Arquitectura, an award-winning studio known for its contextual, timeless, and sustainable designs. Since establishing his practice in 2003, Gascón has led a multidisciplinary team developing projects across architecture, interior design, and urban planning. With international recognition, including the Europe 40 Under 40 and International Architecture Award, his work blends innovation with respect for tradition, consistently featured in renowned publications and exhibitions worldwide. Pepe Gascón, has won a Future House award for 2025 for his work on the “Can Freixes Farmhouse (Masia) in the Baix Empordà Region” project.
GDN: Can you please describe the inspiration that guided your award-winning project?
Pepe Gascón: The inspiration for our award-winning project stems from a deep respect for regional heritage and a commitment to creating a dialogue between the past and present. Rooted in the traditional farming architecture of our region, the design seeks to honor local traditions, vernacular construction techniques, and historical agricultural elements. Our aim was to thoughtfully integrate these cultural and material references within a contemporary architectural framework, thus respecting historical context while advancing modern design principles. This balanced approach ensures that the project remains authentic to its origins while providing functional and aesthetic innovation for current and future use.
GDN: Can you tell us what innovative architectural features or technologies did you incorporate?
Pepe Gascón: While this project does not rely heavily on advanced or high-tech systems, it introduces innovation through a different lens—by valuing craftsmanship as a form of cultural and architectural technology. During the construction phase, I presented this project in a talk focused on technology, emphasizing that one of the greatest challenges today, particularly in regions like Spain, is finding skilled local artisans who possess the sensitivity, care, and deep understanding of traditional building methods and heritage. In this sense, the true innovation lies in preserving and working with this artisanal knowledge, which is increasingly rare. The project prioritizes human skill and cultural continuity over mechanical or digital innovation, offering a more meaningful and sustainable approach to architectural practice.
GDN: How do you integrate social and affordable housing concepts into your work, if applicable?
Pepe Gascón: Our approach to integrating social and affordable housing concepts is deeply connected to the preservation of heritage. We view heritage as inherently social, rooted in the traditions and identity of the region. By preserving and restoring existing homes rather than demolishing them, we maintain the social fabric and continuity of the local community. This project exemplifies this philosophy, as it prioritizes refurbishing vernacular architecture, which not only respects but enhances the cultural landscape. Through this method, we contribute to sustainable community development while honoring the historical and social significance of these structures.
GDN: Can you share with us your aspirations for future residential projects and your architectural practice in general?
Pepe Gascón: Looking ahead, my aspiration is to further develop residential projects that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. I am particularly interested in working with natural and environmentally responsible materials, aiming to create architecture that is both respectful to its surroundings and mindful of future generations. My goal is to contribute to a more sustainable built environment through thoughtful design and the integration of ecological principles into every stage of the process.
