The approach involves enhancing the value of the existing structure by altering its immediate environs (within the plot), thereby sidestepping any alterations or harm to its potential and safeguarded elements.

 

PROPOSAL 

We designed a "plaque" building along the party wall that serves as the backdrop to the former power station building and creates a pedestrian street, providing access to the different programs. 

The pedestrian street allows access to the three programmatic units (S.U.M., library, and offices), serving as the project's focal point and offering a holistic solution for the complex. We relocated and revalued the entrance to the former power station by opening a covered access arcade. 

 

CIRCULATION FLOWS 

Building upon the aforementioned strategy, we delineate two access categories:

Visitor Access: Pedestrian, from San Juan Street, providing entry to the library, public office areas, and the S.U.M. While the access street integrates access for these three program types, it allows for flexible and differentiated hours. 

Service and Parking Access: Pedestrian and vehicular, from Rivadavia Street, providing access for staff, parking access, S.U.M. supplies, and book storage. 

 

USES 

The former power station building serves as the S.U.M., while the new building accommodates the remaining programmatic activities outlined by the competition guidelines.

The "plaque" building consists of a basement for book storage, plus three levels organized according to the specific needs of each use: on the ground floor are the offices requiring public access, the first floor houses classrooms, computer and video rooms, and restricted access offices related to the existing offices, and on the second floor are the reading rooms, benefiting from ample natural light due to their elevation. 

 

Project details:

Authors: Arch. Ezequiel Muñoz - Arch. Adrián Olivero. 

Collaborator: Mariel Cámara. 

Date: 2009 

Location: Concordia, Argentina.

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