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Dome

Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Type: Office
Client: Private
Size: 1500 m2
Status: Private Competition

The building emerges as a natural extension of the terrain’s topography, subtly rising and blending seamlessly with the Andean landscape, much like a volcano. Its integration with the surroundings and strategic location make it a structure that harmonizes effortlessly with its environment.

Its volumetric composition is subtle, delicately resting on the terrain while elevating itself on a podium. Its oval form reflects a circular design concept that goes beyond mere shape—it aligns with the principles of circular architecture, emphasizing resource reutilization, flexible design, and the incorporation of energy-efficient strategies.

At its core, an open central nucleus brings nature into the building, seamlessly integrating greenery with the workspace. This central space fosters a connection between users and the surrounding vegetation on both sides of their work environments.

The building’s form also plays a key role in programmatic functionality, a fundamental aspect of contemporary office design. The architectural floor plan showcases a thoughtful spatial approach, not only optimizing circulation and logistics but also introducing efficient variations and innovations that enhance adaptable workspaces tailored to user needs. This configuration fosters fluid relationships between different functional areas, encouraging seamless interaction among teams.

The Visandes Office Project is built on a strong sustainability framework, with the ultimate goal of providing spaces with optimal lighting and ventilation levels, aligned with both international and local standards. The design also aims for significant reductions in energy and water consumption.

Comfortable indoor temperatures will be maintained year-round through passive thermal comfort strategies, eliminating the need for mechanical climate control systems. The building's orientation minimizes excessive solar heat gain by positioning its longest façades along the North-South axis, allowing for controlled radiation intake—ideal for the region’s temperate climate.

Its elongated, narrow floor plans maximize natural light penetration into all interior spaces, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. This slender configuration also enhances cross-ventilation, ensuring high indoor air quality while dissipating excess heat on warmer days.

The façade’s louvers serve multiple purposes: filtering direct natural light to prevent glare-related discomfort while also reducing solar heat gain.

Additionally, the project incorporates a rainwater collection system, where water will be filtered and treated for reuse in restrooms and irrigation. This combination of sustainable strategies is expected to achieve up to a 50% reduction in water consumption.

© CORREA + FATEHI | ODD 2025

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