Vivir en Usana.
Client
Self-initiated project
Country
Spain
Work
Design research (ongoing)
Community development
Brand Identity
Web Design (UX & UI)
Vivir en Usana is a beautiful self-initiated collaboration with our dear journalist neighbor Cristina Aibar. Everything started in the middle of the Spanish lockdown after spending more than two months inside our houses and village. We got curious about the history and stories of Usana. Which secrets did our town hides in the medieval rocks, tunnels, and homes? Instinctively we went online to research, but to our surprise, we found nothing… Questions started to appear (the perfect drive to start the project). How could we bring all of this information to the light? Where can we access this information? How can we share it with the world?
The Design
We wanted to share our experiences: to serve as an example to those who seek a change in their lives (promoting rural living), tell stories about the past, value the heritage, the resources, and promote slow tourism.
We presented a plan to the local Municipality. They liked the idea, and we got a small grant to develop a brand and website. At the same time, we created two social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) where we share our latest discoveries, campaigns, or activities we made.
The project has created a strong community feeling between all the neighbors. We look after each other, share and coexist in this little oasis of the Pyrenees. With the activities, we organised (not as much as we wanted due to Covid), the feeling of belonging to a big family appeared.
Connecting with women from other villages, everyone has amazing ideas!
Today
July marks the anniversary of our project. We researched a lot about the history of the area and our village; we keep writing blogs and documenting our findings. We enjoy the most when our neighbors share anecdotes about the past, traditions, and how much their life has changed. Currently, we are working on creating routes for mountain bike, hiking, and running, all starting from our homes.
We have connected with other like-minded people from different parts of Spain who purposely choose a remote life. Also, we are getting to know more villages of our surroundings and their inhabitants. For instance, Arcusa. A town about 40 minutes away with great entrepreneurial women.
Press
Vivir en Usana has gotten the attention of the press more than once. The combination of professionals living in remote areas, promoting rural living has triggered journalists around Spain. Below you can click on several articles or radio programs.