In the heart of Córdoba, Argentina, local architects Santiago Viale and Juan Manuel Juarez have orchestrated an architectural masterpiece in the form of the Biofarma office building. This 18,040 square foot administrative hub, nestled within a larger 199,000 square foot industrial complex, represents a harmonious marriage of function and design. Wrapped in a striking perforated metal screen, the building not only houses the operations of an animal feed plant but also becomes a visual ode to innovation and sustainability.
(Photo: Gonzalo Viramonte)
Spatial Organization and Interior Dynamics
Viale and Juarez have meticulously organized the office spaces, meeting rooms, printing areas, and lounges across two rectangular floors, creating a dynamic interplay of spaces. Two internal courtyards, flanked by wood-clad staircases at either end of the building, inject collaborative and interactive elements into the workspace. This thoughtful design fosters a sense of connectivity and engagement among employees across different levels.
The architects ingeniously positioned glass partitions along the internal perimeter, maximizing natural light and providing unobstructed views. The design seamlessly integrates nature into the workspace, with internal courtyards acting as breathing spaces that break the monotony of enclosed office environments. Wood-clad staircases add a touch of warmth, blending the industrial with the organic.
Innovative Exteriors
A perforated metal screen envelops the building's exterior, serving as a functional and aesthetic feature. This complex, cage-like structure reduces direct sunlight radiation and the amount of energy the building uses by acting as a sun shield. The pre-painted grey galvanized expanded metal sheet skin creates a visually striking facade, giving the building an institutional character synonymous with the Biofarma company.
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Interactive Design Elements
Two large metal-framed openings on either side of the building enhance visual aesthetics and open onto an outdoor dining area, seamlessly connecting the interior with the surrounding environment. The architects have thoughtfully incorporated moveable panels and integrated vertical blinds into the metal screen, allowing inhabitants to regulate sunlight exposure according to their preferences.
(Photo: Gonzalo Viramonte)
Multifunctional Interior Spaces
The internal layout emphasizes functionality while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. Company managers' offices surround a double-height space, creating a sense of hierarchy and institutional identity. Open areas and glass-enclosed offices offer a versatile workspace accommodating various requirements. The lobby of the building, which is covered in concrete and has a metal barrier around it, welcomes guests and directs them into an area that strikes a balance between practicality and creative design.
Sustainable Design
Because reinforced concrete makes up the building's structural core, stability and longevity are ensured. The metal screen, which shows how the architects deftly integrated sustainability into the design, doubles as an attractive feature and an environmentally friendly sun shield. The gap between the metallic screen and the building's exterior further contributes to sun protection, showcasing an approach that aligns with contemporary architectural trends.
Santiago Viale and Juan Manuel Juarez's design for the Biofarma office building transcends the conventional expectations of an industrial complex. It is evidence of the architects' inventiveness in combining cutting-edge design elements with practicality. In addition to improving the aesthetic appeal, using perforated metal screens, internal courtyards, and strategic openings results in a dynamic and sustainable workspace. This Córdoba landmark is not only a hub for Biofarma's administrative activities but also a symbol of progressive architectural design that prioritizes aesthetics and efficiency.
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