Gaia Building, Ecuador
Completed at the end of 2016, the Gaia Building has been heralded as a new landmark for the Ecuadorian capital of Quito. Designed by Leppanen + Anker Arquitectos, the building uses an innovative moulded façade system.
Creating 15,000 sq. m of mixed-use space, and topped with a large roof garden, the 15-storey tower provides a combination of commercial, office and residential units.
The building uses a repeating pattern to reduce the number of moulds used in forming the distinctive glass fibre reinforced concrete (GFRC) façade.
The benefits of this sinuous façade material include the efficiency and ease of its installation. A system of adjustable metallic connections allows easy alignment of the complex forms, and the 4m panels can be reused.
As the first new construction in the neighbourhood, the intention behind the design was to combine diverse elements to produce a ‘play of light and shadow of the surroundings’. Carved around the perimeter are deep balconies, intended to help reduce solar gain allow large glazing sections to be used without reducing the efficiency of the passively-controlled internal spaces.
[All images © Sebastián Crespo]
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The rich archaeology of the Isle of Man is an important part of its cultural heritage.
BSRIA call on the industry to attract more women.
The construction methods have changed a lot since the first roads were built around 4,000 BC.
How to deliver a five-fold multiplier effect from investment in water infrastructure.
RSHP's Leadenhall building is named a 2018 RIBA National Award winner.
Gary Neville's controversial Manchester tower gets the green light to go ahead.
Health and safety is everyone’s responsibility.
BSRIA guide to energy storage in buildings - a technology overview.
The UK’s largest Passivhaus accredited affordable housing scheme.
A more productive and sustainable industry
ICE set out 5 recommendations for the Government Construction Strategy 2018 update.
Balfour Beatty fined £500,000 for exposing workers to hand-arm vibration.