WTA Victorious in Festival des Architectures Vives 2025

A Celebration of “La Gourmandise”

The 2025 edition of FAV revolves around the theme "La Gourmandise" (Gourmandise), inviting designers to reflect on indulgence, sensory experiences, and consumption. WTA’s winning installation offers a unique perspective on this theme by exploring the historical and economic relationship between France and the Philippines through cacao and chocolate.

Cacao, a key ingredient in fine chocolate, is grown and farmed in the Philippines before being exported to France, where it is transformed into a luxury product. WTA’s installation mirrors this journey—designed in the Philippines and built in France, it symbolically brings the story full circle.

The Installation: A Journey of Cacao and Commerce

The installation consists of six suspended forms, inspired by major cocoa-exporting and importing countries. When aligned, these forms reveal a striking golden coin, a reference to both the historical opulence of chocolate and the economic realities of its production today.

Reflective materials are integrated into the design, subtly encouraging visitors to see themselves within the system of global trade and consumption. This element transforms the installation into an interactive experience, prompting viewers to consider their role in shaping the industry—as consumers, advocates, or participants in fair trade.

Beyond its conceptual depth, the installation remains rooted in sustainability. It features locally made chocolate from the Philippines, highlighting fair trade practices and ethical sourcing, reinforcing the importance of responsible consumer choices.

Festival des Architectures Vives: A Platform for Innovation

The Festival des Architectures Vives is globally recognized for fostering fresh ideas and pushing the boundaries of architecture in urban spaces. Each year, a select group of designers is chosen to bring their ideas to life within Montpellier’s historic courtyards, creating a striking contrast between old and new.

WTA’s participation and victory in FAV 2025 affirm its dedication to designing spaces that are not only visually compelling but also deeply meaningful. This installation serves as a bridge between architecture, commerce, and culture, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to socially responsive design.

WTA’s Continued Impact on Contemporary Architecture

This latest recognition further solidifies WTA’s position as a leader in architectural storytelling and innovation. The firm consistently explores the intersection of history, economy, and design, crafting experiences that resonate both conceptually and emotionally.

As the Festival des Architectures Vives 2025 unfolds, WTA’s installation is set to provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and create meaningful interactions within the historic heart of Montpellier.