Bogotá, Colombia
Heatherwick Studio has been appointed to create a new home for the Universidad Ean’s school for sustainable design, in Bogotá, Colombia.
The school and maker’s space is located on the existing campus, in a seven-story building with a façade made up of colorful, crafted columns and open terraces.
Heatherwick Studio’s design pays homage to the local craft traditions including Werregue basketry, a form of weaving unique to Colombia’s Wounaan indigenous community.
“Creativity is intrinsic to the city of Bogotá. You see it everywhere. We want students to feel proud of their campus before they even enter the building, arriving through a public square that offers passers-by a welcoming communal oasis amidst the hard urban surroundings,” said Eliot Postma, group leader and partner at Heatherwick Studio.
The new building will complement the existing heritage structures on the site and provide a rare public space in the city.
The design team is working on developing innovative façade materials to address the high levels of sunlight at this altitude and ensure the longevity of the building.
As part of the pledges made by the city as a signatory to the C40 Urban Nature Declaration, the studio’s biophilic design will incorporate local plant species on the open terraces, bringing nature to the metropolis.
Project: Universidad Ean Design School and Makers’ Space
Architects: Heatherwick Studio Limited
Lead Architect: Thomas Heatherwick
Client: Universidad Ean
Photographs: Courtesy of Estudio Nod
