Constructed on a square that covers an existing parking lot at the northern end of the University Campus of Almeria, the new Departmental Building of Economic Sciences by Garcia Bueno Arquitectos realizes two key objectives of utilizing bioclimatic elements such as visors and lattices to achieve an efficient thermal envelope while regularizing the architectural prism and producing a clear and clean volumetric reading.
Oriented along its north-south longitudinal axis, the main facades have an east-west orientation. To protect the exterior surfaces, facades are recessed back from the roof plan, allowing for a protective visor. Measures against overheating are further reinforced on the western façade with a large feature lattice structure oriented according to the highest solar incidence.
The building's rotund volume is pierced by openings that give it sculptural character while allowing the entry of natural light and views to common areas and the different rooms.
The main entrance is situated on a west façade where visitors enter into a triple-height glazed hall that showcases the building's functional structure and overall layout. Key architectural elements are enhanced with the use of white and grey, the two corporate colours of the University.
The exterior of the building is clad with a mechanically fastened semi-ventilated façade with a high thermal absorption capacity.
Materials selected for finishes were chosen on the basis of durability and ease of maintenance. Examples include slatted false ceilings, large-format grey porcelain stoneware floors with minimal joints, and high-pressure laminate flooring.
