The Barcelona-based studios handling of topography and material detailing defines the architectural landscape ofthe Alfacs campsiteBajet Giram was shortlisted in the AR Emerging awards 2024. Read about the full shortlist herePau Bajet and Maria Giram believe architecture should perform as a catalyst for joyful and unexpected possibilities. Their work at Alfacs exemplifies this approach and their centring of wellbeing in methods and projects. Situated near the Spanish city of Alcanar, Tarragona, theholiday destination seeks tocharm visitors; communal facilities spill outdoors and overlook the sea, while a staggered plan allows views to the shores from throughout the site. First opened in the 1950s, the campsite grounds were gradually transformed to include 24 timber cabins, each with their own porch; shared showers and toilets; a building used as both reception and grocery shop; a restaurant; communal gardens; and a pool. Bajet Giram has collaborated with Manuel Juli of JAAS since 2016 on the sites openended process of renovation, working within tight spans of six months to allow the business to remain operational between construction phases.On their first visit, the team was struck by the cluttering of caravans along the shore; those not directly on the waterside had limited access to the beachfront. The design strategy was to push all bungalows towards the back and free up the seafront. Thinking about the layout and pacing across the site, the architects devised sinuous routes, incorporating stepped terraces that run parallel to the beach and creating pockets ofspace interspersed with planted areas.This artificial topography embraces the Mediterranean environment, and existing pine trees are preserved. Their shadows temper the hot air, while additional shade is provided by lighter architectural elements: steel rods form pergolas over which wicker mats can be unrolled, for example, creating acovered terrace for the restaurant. While Bajet and Giram understand joy as being beyond functionality, their work also finds joy in meeting the needs of a client.The architects use a lot of timber and earth at Alfacs, but revert to a more mineral palette when necessary. Concrete is used for elements in touch with the ground, such as the steps, square columns and cylindrical bases for porches. Compressed earth blocks are combined with structural concrete elements for the larger buildings; their more imposing presence, with tiled pitched roofs andsprouting towers, offers a permanence that contrasts with the temporality of the camping experience. The earth blocks high thermal mass also helps keep interiors cool.The architects describe the gradual process ofgrowing the Alfacs campsite as a stratification of components; the goal is to make it feel as rich as a city. In their opting for gradual ecologies of spaces rather than blanket design strategies, they have done just that, reintroducing vibrancy and warmth to the quotidian junctures of camping life.