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The concept for integrating the existing brick building with a new steel tower at the Engineering Faculty of Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia was successfully developed through a private competition. The competition placed significant emphasis on the preexisting building and its fundamental role in the project. The goal was to showcase the engineering qualities and construction aspects, which led to the adoption of a structural steel frame facade. The integration of the old and new structures resulted in the creation of the atrium as a cohesive element between them. This approach effectively achieved a harmonious blend of the existing and new elements, reinforcing the overall concept of the project.
The Engineering Laboratories of Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia establishes a dynamic relationship with both the surrounding landscape and urban area. Situated in the foothills of the Andes at an altitude of 2,600 meters, the building takes advantage of its natural setting, offering panoramic views of the geography and cityscape. Additionally, the building's integration with the urban fabric is achieved through its connection to the campus' pedestrian network on different levels. The atrium, acting as a communal space, bridges the old and new structures and interacts with the surrounding landscape, creating a unique space for the community.
For the university it was essential to retrofit the 7,295 m2 existing brick building in order to decrease the embodied carbon, conserve resources and energy, and prolong the lifespan of the original structure. The retrofitting of the late 80’s building was prioritized for its logistical and ecological benefits over its cultural or heritage features. This integration also helped bring the building up to modern standards and enhance its energy efficiency, while creating the faculty office spaces that encourage collaboration and community building. The project has received the highest recognition in the 2nd Sustainable Architecture Awards in the Building category and the Overall National Winner category. It is currently close to receiving LEED Gold certification in Operation and Maintenance.
The Engineering Faculty at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia is a building complex that seamlessly integrates an existing brick structure with a new steel tower, showcasing exceptional sustainability and technical feats. The retrofitting of the existing brick building, prioritized for its logistical and ecological benefits, decreased embodied carbon, conserved resources and energy, and enhanced the building's energy efficiency. The complex features The Atrium, a communal space that connects the old and new structures and transforms the inner brick façade into vertical gardens for acoustic absorption, thermal regulation, and visual appeal. With 94 laboratories, teaching spaces, and informal learning areas, the building serves the four departments of the faculty and fosters engagement and collaboration across disciplines. Inspired by steel construction types, the design integrates an open-plan nave in The Atrium and a tower with a structural steel frame. The building envelope optimizes energy efficiency and provides panoramic views, while the prefabricated steel frame and continuous weld seams ensure durability. This innovative design not only meets technical challenges but also drives research and collaborations in engineering, locally and regionally.
The Engineering Laboratories push the boundaries of architectural exploration, creating an innovative structure that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. By harnessing local craftsmanship and leveraging the unique geographic and climatic conditions, this project breaks new ground in design and construction. This pioneering approach not only showcases the university's commitment to excellence but also serves as a hub for research, collaboration and regional impact.
TALLER Architects is based in Bogotá and Amsterdam operating in the fields of research, architecture, and territory (urban and landscape design). The company was established in 2009 in Bogotá, Colombia and currently employs 21 full time staff under the creative direction of founders Julian Restrepo and Pablo Forero. TALLER Architects specializes in architecture and territory. Our practice has a highly academic approach to design challenges. Investigation is a crucial component in the process that leads to integral solutions for our clients.
JUAN PABLO ORTIZ ARQUITECTOS are a team of professionals with 15 years of specific experience in the design of high-quality institutional buildings and spaces, personally directed by Juan Pablo Ortiz, professor and researcher at the Universidad de los Andes in Bogota. Juan Pablo Ortiz arquitectos is a study specialized in the integral development of singular buildings with a great communicative projection.
