2017 / Design For Society
/ Design for Sustainability
/ Professional
Botijo
It’s important to look at the past as much as the
future, when looking for sustainable alternatives
to reduce the waste of energy which
characterizes our electricity-dependent society.
As modern appliances replace traditional
systems, we’ve come to rely more and more on
products that on one side make our lives easier,
but take a dramatic toll on our precious
environment.
As a predecessor to the fridge, the Botijo was
used for centuries as a domestic tool to store and
cool water in the arid Mediterranean. As water
evaporates through the porous clay, a layer of
condensing water sets on the exterior surface,
gradually cooling the inside. This process known
as evaporative cooling can cool water up to 13ºC
in less than 2 hours. The traditional Botijo has a 5
lt capacity, which was useful for people in rural
areas as they worked for hours under the sun.
The Botijo holds 1 lt. of water, and like the
traditional version, features two sprouts; a large
one for filling called boca, and a smaller one for
drinking called piton. This modern take on the
traditional Botijo reveals an ergonomic design,
and it’s favorable size pushes its presence
beyond the domestic realm. The Botijo is crafted
in earthenware, and features two closures
fabricated in wood and cork.
The beauty of this product not only relies on the
use of a centuries-old sustainable technology,
and it’s remarkable functionality, but in the
conscious reminder to the user of the importance
to preserve our environment through sustainable
ways.
Other prizes Tag Heuer: The Art of Watch Making: 2nd Place
Pentawards: Gold - Luxury Sprits - Ciroc X
Photo Credit: Enrique Diaz-rato
