A massive addition to the series of slender towers in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Philippines, The Urban Block stands as a visual anchor in contrast to its neighbors. With a gross floor area of 34,000 square meters over an 8,300 square meter prime property, it envelopes a mixed-use program comprised mainly of offices and retail with events center and sports facilities.
The cubic form stands in stark contrast to the existing and future point towers of BGC - adding an iconic element to the structure. This form also maximizes the allowable floor-area ratio to a much lower height and entails huge floor plates that allow flexibility in office and retail planning as well as multiple connectivity that creates a stronger core centrality. This centrality increases activity and maximizes foot traffic by allowing seamless and convenient travel throughout the complex.
To make the massive block permeable, an urban valley is created in the base levels. This attracts activities and foot traffic while functioning as the main public space of the building. On all sides of the upper floors, campus decks that serve as interactive flexible spaces with various activities create punctures to the facade. A solar well is also integrated to allow filtered and indirect natural light into the structure’s core. On top of it is a cooling pond that acts as a wading and reflecting pool for the urban park. Clothing the entire structure is an ETFE skin that makes The Urban Block appear softer while aiding in minimizing solar heat gain.
