We are in the Natural Park of the Albufera of Valencia, a coastal lagoon surrounded by rice fields and irrigation channels. Since the 15th century, the Arabs have cultivated rice here, taking advantage of the abundant water from the Albufera. This cultivation is vital to the culture of Valencia Rice.

The rice cycle begins in January with soil preparation. In May, the rice is sown and grows until September, when it is harvested. In October, the late varieties are collected and the straw is burned. During the last two months of the year, the Albufera gates are closed to allow the land to rest. This cycle, which lasts between five and six months, is being altered by climate change. Storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves affect the stability of the fields, making crops more vulnerable to diseases, such as a current fungal disease that is reducing harvests. Additionally, straw burning contributes to the increase of CO2 in the atmosphere.

In El Palmar, a small fishing village next to the Albufera with 800 inhabitants, we found the Rice Research Center. This center investigates and develops new rice varieties and fights pests, as well as promotes agricultural education and environmental awareness.

The building has three floors. It features three courtyards that improve ventilation and lighting. On the ground floor, there are installation rooms, an office, a cafeteria, laboratories, workshops, a warehouse, and an exhibition hall about the Albufera ecosystem. The first floor houses classrooms, a library surrounded by a walkway, and a greenhouse. The top floor has the similar organization.

The building’s structure is metal, with 6 by 9 grid frameworks and composite slab floors. For the greenhouse area, a gable roof with prefabricated pieces was chosen.

Due to the hot climate, all sides of the building are protected from the sun. For the teaching area, motorized wooden slats adjust their angles according to the sun's position. The greenhouse facade uses inflated ETFE cushions and low-emissivity glass, maintaining constant temperatures and improving ventilation.

The Albufera of Valencia, between tradition and innovation, seeks to protect the land and ensure a future in harmony between nature and humanity.