Buenos Aires Ciudad Casa de Gobierno

Project Details

Project Description

From the architects:

Entry is through a soaring four-storey-high atrium. Full-height glass walls fill the space with natural light and create
a visual connection with the adjacent park. The four tiers of workspaces step back to create a sequence of internal
terraces. All floors are connected by top-lit circulation routes and punctuated by two large landscaped patios. The
activity spaces are open, naturally lit and visible, ensuring good communication between departments and
promoting a sense of community. The generous floor plates are based on an eight-meter grid, which allows for a wide variety of layouts – the building was originally commissioned as the headquarters for Banco Ciudad, and the inherent flexibility of its design has enabled a seamless transition into government offices. Further facilities include a café and a 300-seat wood-panelled auditorium, which can be used for events by the local neighbourhood.
Externally, the building is characterised by its flowing roof canopy, which is supported by pillars and extends in a
deep overhang to shade the entrance plaza and facades. Inside, the concrete barrel vaulted roof is textured and
exposed. The use of industrial materials reinforces the formerly artisan character of Parque Patricios, while the
thermal mass of the concrete soffits, combined with chilled beams, help to naturally regulate the temperature and
keep the offices cool. It will be the first public building in Argentina to achieve the environmental award for
sustainability of LEED Silver standard. Every aspect of the scheme was designed in response to the local climate,
including the composition of each facade – the eastern and western elevations are shaded by a screen of louvres,
which rise the full height of the building.