Key Development in Mexico, Central America

6 Nov 2009 Teleton Tampico wins World's Best Health Building at World Architecture Festival Awards 2009 Socially responsible centre for disabled children combines colour, nature and therapeutic spaces Teleton Tampico, designed by Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos of Mexico, has won the World's Best Health Building award at the prestigious World Architecture Festival Awards (WAF Awards) 2009. Teleton Tampico, in Tampico, Mexico, is a centre for disabled children, designed to allow them to interact, experience freedom and develop new skills that will enable them to better integrate with society. The project, comprising six interconnecting elements, is characterised by spacious rooms, diversity of colours and outdoor green space which complement, or are an integral part of physical therapy. The presentation of the WAF Awards took place during global architecture summit the World Architecture Festival, which is being held at the Centre Convencions International Barcelona (CCIB) between 4th and 6th November. The WAF Awards form the biggest architectural awards programme in the world and are designed to celebrate and showcase the work of the international architectural community. The WAF Awards are unique as they involve shortlisted architects presenting their projects live to the public and a star studded international judging panel. Teleton Tampico was chosen by some of the world's most distinguished architects and renowned industry experts, beating off competition from a shortlist of 6 entries. Speaking at the WAF Awards Paul Finch, WAF Programme Director, said: "Yet again we received a huge response to these fiercely contested Awards, with 272 projects shortlisted from 67 different countries. The geographical range and quality of this year's designs were exceptionally high and offers a real insight into the current condition and diversity of global architecture. Our congratulations go to Sordo Madaleno Arquitectos who thoroughly deserve to receive this accolade." This is the 2nd year the World Architecture Festival Awards have been presented. Last year's overall winner of World Building of the Year 2008 was Luigi Bocconi University, Milan, designed by Irish practice Grafton Architects.