de la-hoz builds volumes of glass and concrete for cordoba university

de la-hoz builds volumes of glass and concrete for cordoba university
all images courtesy of rafael de la-hoz

the ‘vial-norte building’ at the university of cordoba in spain by rafael de la-hoz is the result of combining massive volumes with light spaces. located in a trapezoidal plot, the design is conceived as dramatically weightless, highlighted by the emphasis placed on the contrasting materials of the façades: glass and concrete. in relation to the suns path throughout the day, the north side features a double-skin system with large voids that allow natural daylight to shine in. between its layers, air is able to flow through the intermediate cavity as recessed windows reach out in a diagonal fashion towards the outermost surface to fill several of the openings, acting in relation to programs of the interior. as a result, the system acts as a solar shading device that provides protection from the heat of the climate and reduces the overall energy consumption of the building. meanwhile, the south façade shows a collection of translucent aluminum panels with driven cutouts of light that embody the building’s aspirations within the city’s fabric. the five-storey complex houses educational programs while two underground floors are designated for parking and optimal storage.

detail of the façade

(left) the north façade with its large voids
(right) the double skin system from across the street

the building is located in a trapezoidal plot

the entrance on the ground floor is drawn back from the corner to create an overhang

the south face with aluminum panels

the education center blends in with its surrounding urban backdrop

as opposed to creating a flush surface, several windows meet the outermost surface at a diagonal

view through a window towards the exterior surface of the skin system

the design has a total area of approximately 5,448 m²

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