tilted ring formation completes nearly zero energy building campus by barru arkitektura

Orona Ideo stands for Sustainable and Collaborative design

Orona Ideo by BARRU ARKITEKTURA is an innovative project in San Sebastian, Spain, that integrates sustainability and collaboration within a unified campus. This project exemplifies the principles of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB), achieving high energy efficiency through the integrated design of its buildings and infrastructure. The campus, which houses companies, technology centers, and universities, is a model of sustainable design, earning both LEED Gold and BREEAM Excellent certifications, as well as Spain’s first Innovation point for its advanced energy management systems.

The design employs bioclimatic strategies to maximize passive energy use, including green roofs and renewable energy systems, setting a new standard for sustainable and self-sufficient architecture. The project is structured around the concept of the Urban Cell, which integrates multiple functions within four key buildings, each contributing to the overall energy efficiency and environmental sensitivity of the campus.

aerial image of the Orona Ideo building ensemble | all images courtesy of BARRU ARKITEKTURA

key buildings contribute to the energy efficiency of the campus

The corporate headquarters, the Zero Building, is defined by its distinctive circular design, featuring a 90-meter diameter and a 16-meter high inclined hollow cylinder. This structure embodies the company’s brand identity and includes offices, a rooftop solar energy system, and various working environments that foster a strong brand culture. The Foundation Building is a multifunctional 10,500 sqm structure that accommodates shared facilities on the lower floors, such as a canteen, auditorium, and library, while the upper floors are dedicated to energy-related education, including new eco-engineering degrees.

The A3 Research Building houses office spaces and laboratories focused on advanced research in electrical storage systems. The laboratories stand out with a U-glass facade, and the offices are distinguished by a vibrant exterior. The Gallery Pavilion serves as a space for visitors to engage with the Orona Ideo philosophy and to explore renewable energy technologies. The Plaza is an interconnected urban space designed to foster interaction among researchers, workers, and students. The architectural team opts for the design of the striped pavement and landscaping to reflect the geological strata and the rich local landscape.

Zero Building’s cantilever and mirror underceiling

BARRU ARKITEKTURA promotes Zero Energy construction

The entire project has achieved LEED Gold and BREEAM Excellent certifications and is recognized by the World Green Building Council as a benchmark for Health, Wellbeing, and Productivity in Offices. It is also highlighted as a leading example of Nearly Zero Energy Buildings, particularly for its vision of a Zero Energy District with no fossil fuel consumption and Zero Carbon Footprint.

Zero Building’s facade parametric design

Zero Building’s facade

Zero Building’s inclined roof with integrated photovoltaics

Zero Building’s inner courtyard

view from Zero Building’s rooftop

Foundation Building interior foyer

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Zero Building showroom

hybrid spaces at Zero

Zero Building interior

Zero Building hall

Zero Building section

Foundation Building floorplan

project info:

name: Orona Ideo
architect: BARRU ARKITEKTURA | @barruarkitektura

architectural team: Xabier Barrutieta, Eneko Goikoetxea, Javier de la Fuente, Santi Perez

location: San Sebastian, Hernani, Basque Country, Spain

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom