The “Alma” building, located in the Noroeste neighborhood, was the only project from Brazil’s capital to receive the LOOP Design Awards 2023. The winning project revives the architectural style that made Brasília a global reference in modern architecture.
The award recognizes outstanding projects that showcase diversity in architecture and design around the world. There were 690 project submissions from over 50 countries.
Four Brazilian buildings won in different categories, three of them located in São Paulo and only one in Brasília. The residential building in Noroeste won first place in the category “Architecture / Multi-Unit Housing.”
Winning Project
The LOOP Design Awards highlighted Alma’s exposed concrete façade and vertical rectangular elements. The project consists of 24 apartments and brings back the iconic style that has made Brasília a landmark in global architecture.
The building also features movable brise-soleils, offering solar protection and a striking contrast to the concrete structure. The apartment balconies are adorned with planters, and the landscaping project, signed by Ana Paula Roseo, includes native Cerrado vegetation.
The jury emphasized that “the combination of concrete, wood, and vegetation creates a harmonious composition that blends seamlessly with the natural environment.”
Developed by the real estate developer and construction company Lotus, the project was designed by the renowned architecture firms Valeria Gontijo + Arquitetos, Estrela Arquitetura, and Ana Paula Roseo Paisagismo.
“It’s an honor to receive this award, which recognizes the very best in architecture, design, and landscaping from around the world. Representing Brasília makes this moment even more special,” says Luiz Felipe Hernandez, one of Lotus’s CEOs.
“We work with a team that draws inspiration from around the globe to create modern developments that also revive Brasília’s unique architecture, as is the case with Alma. Receiving this recognition reinforces the value of our teamwork,” adds Ruy Hernandez, also a CEO of the company.
About Lotus
Founded in 2018, Lotus has quickly carved out its place in the market, setting trends and establishing a solid presence. In 2021, the company completed the sale of the Lotus Corporate development to the World Bank — a commercial building with more than 9,805 square meters of built area, fully customized to meet the institution’s layout and security needs.
Later that same year, founders Luiz Felipe Hernandez and Ruy Hernandez were featured on Forbes Brazil’s prestigious “Under 30” list — the Brazilian edition of the world’s leading financial magazine. They stood out among young Brazilians under 30 who achieved extraordinary results in industry and entrepreneurship.
