Arapiraca, Sao Paulo
In May 2017, Triptyque Architecture completed a new residential building in Vila Madalena district in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
The main objective of the architects was the integration of the residential complex with its context - a neighborhood of old houses, close to bars and restaurants - to create a ‘natural dialogue’.
To achieve this, they split the complex into eight randomly-distributed blocks, each with an independent access, and positioned to give the best views and optimised ventilation and daylighting. A ninth block contains lifts and stairs, and access to metallic footbridges.
The result is a configuration of apartments allowing for privacy equivalent to independent houses. With generous terraces and a wide ceiling-height, the units vary from studio to triplex and can have a number of different layouts.
The memory of Vila Madalena appears in the choice of coatings. The predominance of projected concrete - a rough and rustic material, almost primitive, in a graphite colour - is a reference to the finish of the old buildings of the district.
History also appears in the use of ceramics, a reference to the Portuguese, the first immigrants who occupied the region. The blue and white azulejos, a tribute to the artist Athos Bulcão, cover all internal facades. Smooth and reflective, they give life to the facades while illuminating the centre of the ground.
Vegetation plays a central role in the project, whether in the plants attached to the walkways, or the ground floor, where the green density creates an ‘urban forest’ under the building.
Content and images courtesy of Triptyque Architecture.
Images © Fernando Guerra.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
New Great British Energy partnership launched
Crown estate help to turbocharge energy independence.
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.