The Architecture of Virtual Water is the latest exhibition inaugurated at Roca Barcelona Gallery on February 26. Following its presentation at the Biennale di Venezia, the installation has travelled directly to Barcelona, where it can be visited until October.
What is The Architecture of Virtual Water?
Inspired by scientific research and artistic experimentation, the installation proposes a sensory journey that invites visitors to reflect on the essential, yet often invisible, role water plays in sustaining life and shaping contemporary societies. It explores the presence of water not only as a physical resource, but as a system embedded within our built environment, economy and everyday life.
The project was created by an interdisciplinary team bringing together architecture (Benedetta Tagliabue), science (Jampel Dell’Angelo), music (Yeshi Silvano Namkhai) and digital visual art (Ati Sphere). Inside, the experience becomes immersive through the interaction between digital projections and an acousmatic composition: visuals and spatial soundscapes respond to visitors’ movements, transforming scientific data and ecological awareness into an emotional and collective experience.
Why is it a sustainable installation?
The work takes the form of a sinuous pavilion composed of wooden structures that spell the word AQUA (Latin for “water”). Its walls are made from upcycled industrial filter paper, assembled using a honeycomb technique. These handcrafted surfaces, produced in Catalonia using solar-powered methods, reflect a strong commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship and material experimentation.
Moreover, its portable nature allows for reuse, storage and transportation, extending the life cycle of the installation and reducing its environmental impact.
The project is fully aligned with Roca’s commitment to sustainability and responsible water use, reinforcing its dedication to promoting environmental awareness and innovation through culture and design.
The Architect
Benedetta Tagliabue founded EMBT Architects in 1994 together with Enric Miralles (1955–2000). Based in Barcelona with offices in Shanghai and Paris, the studio has developed landmark projects such as the Scottish Parliament Building, the Spain Pavilion Expo 2010, the Mercat de Santa Caterina and the Kálida Sant Pau, among many others.
Her work has received numerous national and international awards, and she has served as a jury member of prestigious prizes such as the Pritzker Architecture Prize since 2014.
This project reflects an ongoing exploration of architecture’s role in addressing contemporary ecological challenges through innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration and poetic expression.
Come and discover it
We invite you to explore the installation from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, at C/ Joan Güell 211–213, Barcelona.