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2023
October 2023
Engineering Laboratories PUJ wins "Best Tall Building Americas" at CTBUH Awards 2023
Engineering Laboratories at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana Campus, Bogotá wins the "Best Tall Building - Americas" category at the CTBUH Awards 2023.
Located at 2,600 meters above sea level in the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana campus, the new Engineering Laboratories building blends tradition with innovation, by joining an existing brick building with a contemporary tower to offer the engineering community an immersive learning experience.
The project was developed by the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana - Dirección de Recursos Físicos. Architectural design by Juan Pablo Ortiz + TALLER Architects and structural design by CNI Ingenieros Consultores. The tower stands 15 stories tall, with a height of 74 meters and a total area of 13,674 square meters.
Architectural and structural designs were executed in symbiosis achieving functionality and aesthetics simultaneously: façade and structure are one and the same. The design consists of a steel tube frame system consisting of 81 hollow-section columns, joined with continuous weld seams. The structure is painted in brass color to highlight the metallic character of its material and blend in with the existing brick building.
It has been an honor to have competed in the “Best Tall Building - Americas” category alongside remarkable buildings from Foster + Partners, BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group, REX, FXCollaboratives, ZGF Architects LLP, and Pelli Clarke & Partners.
Click the link for more info about this project.
September 2023
Water As Leverage Cartagena - Third Local Design Workshop
On September 25th and 26th, the conceptual designs of the ConAgua and Raíces de Cartagena consortia were presented to the public at the Cartagena Congress Center and the Heredia - Alfonso Mejía Theater respectively.
TALLER, as architecture lead for the ConAgua consortium, had the opportunity to share five project ideas for the improvement of the areas around La Ciénaga de La Virgen, El Canal Matute, and Caño Juan Angola. These urban interventions strive to solve the needs of the community as well as balancing and improving the natural water ecosystem. Local workshops and roundtables were held with the active participation of representatives of the citizenry committed to a resilient vision for Cartagena and its aquifer environment.
Finally, on September 28th, the Financial Workshop was held in Bogotá. The conceptual designs were presented to public and private entities interested in materializing the proposed infrastructure for Cartagena. This event was an approach to private and public stakeholders interested in participating in the construction of a joint vision for the city.
For more information please check a video by WAL Cartagena in which our partner Julián Restrepo deepens into TALLER's role in this social program.
July 2023
New Associate - Alejandra Núñez
TALLER Architects is proud to announce the well-deserved appointment of architect Alejandra Núñez as an Associate of the practice. As an integral part of our creative journey, Alejandra has consistently displayed exceptional talent, great organizational and management skills, and an unwavering commitment to design excellence.
She will join current Associates Manuela Mosquera, Yeimy Martínez, and Juan Camilo Salazar in the company leadership alongside TALLER NL director Sven Hoogerheide, and founding partners Julian Restrepo and Pablo Forero.
With a diverse portfolio of projects developed in TALLER, Alejandra has not only contributed to some of the office's most important recent projects but has shown interest in the growth of the company within other spaces. Some of them include TALLER's participation in the ANDINA collective or the development of the model-making department.
Part of her relevant experience within TALLER includes Bogota’s Eastern Mountain Trails, the Pre-feasibility studies for three strategic projects in the Bogotá Metropolitan Region, Qianhai Public Space in China, and recently in Colombia the Riohacha Pier and the Proyecto CO+.
The TALLER team is excited to witness Alejandra's continued growth and leadership within the team, as she embarks on this new chapter as an Associate.
June 2023
PUJ Engineering Laboratories Tower recognized for its innovative steel structure
A new award has been given to the Engineering Laboratories Tower from the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. This time, the building was recognized with the ICCA - ACESCO 2023 Award for excellence in steel construction, in the Buildings category.
Standing tall at 74 meters, the tower's 1,880-ton steel structure showcases innovative design, featuring prefabricated main columns and two concrete walls with X-bracing systems. Meticulous attention to detail was part of the manufacturing process, using a combination of BIM modeling and advanced welding techniques, which resulted in 2,640 shop drawings and over 1,170 steel components that seamlessly form the building. This recognition is a testament to the commitment to architectural excellence articulated with engineering innovation.
This is a recognition from the Instituto Colombiano de la Construcción con Acero - ICCA to the technical team behind the project and the University. The Engineering Laboratories Tower stands as a symbol of our dedication to pushing the boundaries of construction and creating spaces that inspire and serve our community.
Congratulations to the entire team behind this remarkable achievement: Juan Pablo Ortiz Arquitectos, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, and Estahl Ingenieria
June 2023
Revitalizing San Felipe: Pre-Feasibility report
In collaboration with The World Bank, TALLER has presented a pre-feasibility report highlighting the importance of implementing "Low-Carbon Vital Neighborhoods" in Bogotá. These neighborhoods prioritize proximity and care, aim for balance on a local level, and function as a strategic framework.
The project stems from recognizing pedestrians and green areas as crucial for water management, biodiversity, fighting urban heat, enhancing visuals, and cleaner air. This approach focuses on consolidating and reinforcing the public space identity of Barrio Vital San Felipe. The proposal states more than 10% of the project's total area to nature, emphasizing pedestrian safety, crafting high-quality sidewalks and urban furniture, and encouraging long-term civic involvement in programming and maintenance. Universal accessibility remains integral to our commitment to democratic, inclusive, and open public spaces.
The proposal aims to increase pedestrian circulation by 24%, resulting in an additional 3,361 square meters of space. It also includes a 12% surge in green spaces, exceeding the 10% project goal. Meanwhile, vehicular circulation shrinks by 36% (5,327 sqm reduction). This transformative project reflects our commitment to a sustainable, connected urban future.
Check the final report for a full perspective on the results and methodology worked hand-by-hand with The World Bank, private consultancy companies and the Alcaldía de Bogotá secretaries.
June 2023
Cultural Expressions and Water Resilience unite in Cartagena Workshop
On June 7th, as part of the Water as Leverage Cartagena activities, TALLER took part in the "Patrimonio cultural de murallas hacia afuera" workshop, at the Sociedad de Ingenieros y Arquitectos de Bolívar in Cartagena. Organized by the Fundación Herencia Ambiental Caribe and Consorcio Cartagena ConAgua, of which TALLER is part, this event focused on the critical role of cultural expressions in managing urban water and fostering alternative ways of life in the face of climate change.
The workshop brought together a select group of cultural leaders and activists as well as researchers and NGOs who shared their experiences in utilizing art and culture to build a more sustainable and equitable Cartagena. The discussions centered around the city's historical and current interventions, diving into the identity and cultural significance of its aquatic landscape. The aim was to explore challenges and opportunities that lead to specific solutions for the appreciation and use of water systems, as well as urban interactions, integrating historical and cultural elements to strengthen local resilience and sustainability.
Our consortium seeks to encourage the convergence of culture and water in shaping Cartagena's future. The insights gathered during the workshop will contribute to the development of projects that promote the city's holistic growth, inspired by its rich cultural heritage. The cultural community's active engagement in this initiative marks a promising step towards building a more vibrant, resilient, and prosperous Cartagena. Stay tuned for more updates and exciting developments as we continue to explore the dynamic relationship between culture and water in our ongoing efforts to create a better future for the city, within the Water as Leverage Cartagena program.
June 2023
REDD+ Project Presentation took place at Indigenous Reserves in Caquetá, Colombia
TALLER and ALBOR interdisciplinary team reunited with the Puerto Sábalo - Los Monos and Monochoa Reserves community representatives to hold the design progress presentation. They carried out these meetings as the culmination of Phase II of the architectural design project. CO+ project aims for the improvement of the housing conditions alongside the Caqueta River.
These community assemblies addressed topics such as the potential challenges for future steps, budget analysis, refinement of the architecture proposal, and the prioritization of the building houses plan. The design team presented hand-crafted models of the house prototypes for each community as a tool for a better understanding of the project and its objectives. This sole gesture produced an effusive interest among the local participants that the team expects to become an active commitment to the continuation of this social process.
The most valuable result of these roundtables is the informed decision-making in which each reserve actively participated. TALLER and ALBOR’s team is fully committed to the project's ongoing development based on collaborative efforts and community engagement. Expect news for the upcoming stages of this social project.
Photos by Nicolas Jacob.
June 2023
PUJ Engineering Laboratories Tower receives a CTBUH Award of Excellence
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana's Engineering Laboratories Tower designed with Juan Pablo Ortíz Arquitectos, has been honored with an Award of Excellence in the CTBUH Awards 2023 within the Best Tall Building Americas category.
The CTBUH Awards Program, held as part of the CTBUH International Conference, showcases projects that address critical challenges and exemplify excellence in tall building design. The program celebrates those who adopt innovative approaches and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable outcomes.
As we move forward, we are thrilled to compete for the Category Award at the upcoming CTBUH 2023 International Conference, taking place from October 16th to the 21st in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Check the full list of winners on the Conference's official site.
May 2023
Andina collective, presentation and conversation in Bogotá
On May 15th, Andina will be hosting a book presentation and conversation event around the collective and its self-titled book. The presentation will take place at the Leopoldo Rother Architecture Museum, from the Universidad Nacional in Bogotá.
The book is a first step for the collective in acknowledging each other's diverse work practice to comprehend the dimensions of the shared territory where we operate. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing the conversation about collaborative and diverse architecture in Colombia!
May 2023
Javeriana's Engineering Laboratories Tower named finalist in the Architizer A+Awards 2023
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana's Engineering Laboratories Tower, designed in collaboration with Juan Pablo Ortiz Arquitectos, has been named a finalist in two categories of the 11th Architizer A+Awards 2023: "Higher Education & Research Facilities" and "Architecture +Metal".
This recognition comes after the tower's recent awards at the 2022 Panamerican Quito and Colombian Architecture Biennales, cementing the success of our commitment to creating innovative and sustainable solutions for our clients, while also pushing the boundaries of design in the local context.
The Architizer A+Awards is one of the largest awards in the architecture industry, with over 500 categories and a global reach. The winners will be selected by a jury of renowned architects, designers, and industry professionals.
March 2023
Project proposal for Resilient Communities Along the Nile in Egypt selected by the Stimuleringsfonds
TALLER is thrilled to announce its selection as one of the recipients of the Open Call Resilient Communities / Inclusive Cities / Just Societies by the Stimuleringsfonds. The grant will support TALLER, in collaboration with Olivier de Gruijter and Marwan Rasmy from the Creative Climate Collective (CCC), alongside Hatem S. Hamdy, in the project titled "Qursaya Island - Healthy Communities along the Nile."
The collaboration between TALLER and the CCC members started during COP27, when TALLER's Partner, Julián Restrepo, met Olivier de Gruijter and Marwan Rasmy. Recognizing the shared commitment to addressing climate challenges and promoting resilient communities, they joined forces to explore the unique case of Qursaya Island in Egypt.
Qursaya Island is a living laboratory, showcasing how its residents have adapted to changing ecological conditions through sustainable living practices and strong social structures. The team will dive into the island's off-grid settlements and examine the community's resilience when facing external pressures, including new development plans and environmental concerns.
The project aims to document the island's story of resilience and cultural heritage through a publication that will be presented in both Cairo and Amsterdam. It will serve as an advocacy tool, calling for the protection of the island's unique ecosystem and its communities' way of life.
The team will be traveling to Cairo in June 2023 for the first series of activities and immersions with local actors.
TALLER is honored to receive this grant and looks forward to contributing to the construction of resilient, inclusive, and just societies. The collaboration with the other team members highlights the power of interdisciplinary partnerships in addressing global challenges.
For more information, check the Stimuleringsfonds note.
March 2023
Inauguration of the Renovated Bicentenario de la Independencia Sports Unit in México
On March 18th, Tultitlán's Mayor, Elena García, led the delivery of the renewed sports complex located in Valle de Tules neighborhood. Designed for SEDATU's Urban Improvement Plan, the complex now offers an array of recreation and sports programs for the community, including football and 7-a-side football fields, a basketball court, a semi-Olympic swimming pool, skatepark, a calisthenics area, a children's playroom, and a fronton court, ensuring ample opportunities for everyone in the community. Existing facilities, like the pool and outdoor courts, have undergone improvements, while new additions, such as a library, outdoor amphitheater, and calisthenics spaces, have been introduced.
The project creates a seamless connection between the sports complex and the surrounding urban spaces, revitalizing the neighborhood's accessibility and pedestrian pathways. The concept of a park-like sports complex reinforces the community's need for sports, recreation, and green areas, making the project a comprehensive space for the city.
The sports unit is part of the collaboration with local colleagues ORU, Departamento del Distrito, and Ricardo García Santander, in the city of Tultitlán, México.
March 2023
ANDINA's self-titled book presentation in Colombia
The collective's book is making its way to Colombia, where the collective is based. The book, which was previously launched at the Mextropoli Festival in Mexico last year, showcases the works of nine of the collective's members, including TALLER Architects. It highlights the diverse practices of the offices and their shared goal of promoting contemporary Colombian architecture. With projects ranging in diverse sectors, scales, and locations, the book is a testament to Andina's commitment to building encounters and discussion spaces around architecture.
Andina has organized two events in Medellín to celebrate the book's launch. The first event, "Construcciones colectivas," is taking place on March 25th at the Museo de Antioquia. Lina Escobar, Jorge Perez, and Andina Practices will present the Collective and discuss the logic of collaboration and the common search for public space.
The second event, "Procesos de divulgación en Arquitectura," which will take place on March 28th at the auditorium of the Museo de Arte Moderno de Medellín, will focus on processes of architectural outreach. The event will feature architects Ana Elvira Velez and Camilo Restrepo, as well as architects from Andina.
We are excited to see Andina continue to create opportunities for dialogue and exchange among Colombian architects.
March 2023
Real del Bosque Cultural Center and Library Inaugurated in Tultitlán, Mexico
On March 17th, Tultitlán's Mayor Elena García inaugurated the new public facility in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadalupe. The Mayor highlighted the role of the new cultural spaces in "fostering culture, learning, and recreation."
The Cultural Center and the Library are articulated in two separate volumes connected through a plaza. The cultural plaza takes advantage of the containments to generate an amphitheater with views over the city.
In Tultitlán, TALLER successfully contributed to five transformative projects under the SEDATU's Urban Improvement Plan. The Cultural Center and the other projects in the city were designed in collaboration with local colleagues ORU, Departamento del Distrito, and Ricardo García Santander.
We are proud to witness this significant step towards a vibrant cultural hub, and we look forward to its positive impact on the community!
For more information check the press release of the municipality.
Photos: Tultitlán Municipality
March 2023
New City Theater in Cancún, Mexico reaches 70% completion
The construction of the new Teatro de la Ciudad in Cancún has reached 70% completion, according to Governor Lezama, after a site visit on March 18th. With over 100 million Mexican pesos invested, the new theater will provide residents and visitors with a space to enjoy local and international theater productions.
The new theater, which required the demolition of an incomplete and poorly constructed building, will offer two spaces for performances. An auditorium with seating for over 650 spectators, as well as a versatile alternative stage. The main lobby will extend out to the access plaza and the street, providing a seamless connection to the existing cultural center and independent access.
The Teatro de la Ciudad is set to open later this year, bringing more culture to the city and enhancing its reputation as a destination for tourism and the arts. The theater was designed in collaboration with local architects DC-MX, ORU, Departamento del Distrito, and Ricardo García Santander in 2021.
March 2023
TALLER joins global conversation on social water management at the UN 2023 Water Conference and New York Water Week
Founding partners Julián Restrepo and Pablo Forero, NL studio director Sven Hoogerheide, and Associate Manuela Mosquera, participated in the UN Water Conference and the New York Water Week, which took place simultaneously in New York City from 18 to 24 March 2023.
At the New York Water Week, TALLER participated in the Innovation Lab, a space organized by Water as Leverage, RVO, Columbia University, and Deltares. During the lab, experts in various water-related topics presented their ideas and engaged in co-creation workshops. The outcome of the lab was a consensus on the importance of social and governance issues surrounding water management, rather than solely focusing on engineering aspects.
In addition to the Innovation Lab, the team attended the UN Water Conference where governments presented their positions on water-related issues. They participated in several panels, including those discussing Water as Leverage, Rebuild by Design, indigenous governance of rivers and basins, and Latin American, Asian, and North American initiatives.
Overall, TALLER's participation reinforced its relationship with international water-related initiatives and brought valuable insights into the social and governance aspects of water management.
March 2023
Over 200 Community Organizations will benefit from San Francisco Community Center
Last March, the Agencia Nacional Inmobiliaria (ANIM) delivered the newest community center in Ciudad Bolivar's Transmicable pylons in Bogotá, Colombia. In its three floors and open terrace, the building will be the new headquarter of "Asojuntas", a community organization that groups more than 200 Juntas de Acción Comunal (JACs) with over a thousand community members.
With nearly 400 m2, the public facility offers a new infrastructure for the development and welfare of the community. The municipality's goal is to develop urban renovation with public facilities in the plots where the pylons of the cable car system are located, seeking to improve the quality of life of the citizens. The project follows TALLER's commitment to bringing back the social to the cities with sensible design.
Photo: Jorge Eliecer Contreras Bohórquez
February 2023
Lake of Champions in Shenzhen's Forest and Sports Park construction continues
Last February, the Shenzhen team visited the site of phase 2 of the Hongqiao Forest and Sports Park, the Lake of Champions. Progress is being made in the Sports Fields, the surrounding loop, the trails in the forest, the South Entrance plaza, and the Research Center.
The construction of the second phase started in 2021, and it's expected to finish in the coming months.
Project developed in collaboration with LOLA Landscape and L+CC.
February 2023
TALLER Architects will be part of Water as Leverage Cartagena to address water-related challenges in the city
We are delighted to announce that we are part of the 'Cartagena ConAgua' consortium, which has been selected to join the Water as Leverage program in Cartagena, Colombia. Through collaborative and innovative solutions, the Water as Leverage program aims to address water-related challenges in urban areas, which is why we are thrilled to be part of this project.
The multidisciplinary team of experts includes Arcadis (Netherlands), Deltares (Netherlands), TALLER Architects (Colombia), ONE Architecture (USA), JESyCA (Colombia), Fundación Herencia Ambiental Caribe (Colombia) and Selfinver (Colombia), with water management, urban planning, architecture, and social engagement professionals that will work towards developing sustainable and resilient solutions that cater to Cartagena's unique needs and challenges. The consortium members have extensive experience addressing water issues worldwide and locally in Cartagena from technical, cultural, natural, financial, social, governance, and economic perspectives.
As part of our commitment to inclusive design, we will engage with the community to develop solutions that are socially and economically inclusive. We believe that our approach, which considers both the physical and social aspects of the neighborhoods, will lead to a more sustainable and livable city for all. We are excited about this program and are eager to contribute our expertise to design solutions that respond to the unique needs of Cartagena's communities.
More information on the Partners for Water website.
January 2023
Children's Museum of Bologna proposal recognized with Third Place
We are thrilled to announce that our proposal for the Children's Museum of Bologna, done in collaboration with Mynd Ingegneria and aRE - Arquitectura en Estudio, came in Third Place. The jury highlighted the "fascinating suggestion expressed in a dualism between articulated volumes and their distribution system," which we believe demonstrates the power of the diverse ideas each partner brought to the project. While we are disappointed that our proposal was not chosen as the winning design, we are proud of the hard work and dedication that went into creating this proposal.
This recognition reinforces our passion for pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional designs that would come only from collaboration with colleagues. We are honored to have been invited by our Italian friends of Mynd Ingegneria to be part of this competition and are eager to see what future collaborations could bring.
Check the project on our website.
TALLER Architects
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