Design
Almudena is a traditional Spanish water pitcher (botijo) inspired by the Virgin of Almudena, patron saint of Madrid. The crimson color is taken from the city’s flag. Its compact size holds 750 ml of water. The jute band acts as an absorbent barrier, preventing condensation from forming on the pitcher. It is packaged in a standard cardboard cylinder already available on the market. For product protection, the usual plastic wrapping is replaced with honeycomb-structured paper.

Innovation
A botijo cools water through evaporative cooling, making it an eco-friendly alternative to electric systems. Almudena represents a formal reinterpretation of a classic object deeply rooted in Spanish culture. Its form is based on the figure of the Virgin of Almudena. The handle, made of strawberry tree wood (the tree featured on the city’s coat of arms), becomes her halo, and the jute band becomes her belt. The white clay is associated with a pure soul and lends distinction to the pottery of water, which is otherwise infused with the typical brown.

Sustainability
Production by local artisans stimulates local commerce and reduces environmental impact. Slip casting, immersion glazing, and single firing allow for efficient use of materials and energy. Almudena is made of ceramic and wood, both of which are separable. At the end of its useful life, the wood is reused as fuel and the ceramic as chamotte for future clay pieces. The packaging is printed with one color.

Designer : Sergio Cuartones

Location : Madrid, Spain

Project : Almudena

Client : Escuela Superior de Diseño de Madrid