23 SUL Arquitetura designed the new Administrative Headquarters of the Mosaic of Juréia-Itatins Conservation Units (MUCJI), for the Forest Foundation of the State of São Paulo. The building accommodates administrative, operational, legal functions, as well as educational and scientific research activities. The project is part of the socio-environmental recovery program of Serra do Mar and the Atlantic Forest Mosaic System (MUCJI), which is financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
All construction and operational aspects of the building were designed to generate the least possible environmental impact. The use of light, durable and low waste industrial materials allowed for a dry and fast construction.
The choice for glued laminated timber structure - lightweight prefabrication of renewable source - reduces the weight on foundations and minimize the generation of difficult to recycle waste, besides guaranteeing control and agility to the constructive process. Following the same concept, we opted for modular partitions in self-supporting system with laminated panels, standard wooden frames, internal and external facades with laminated panels, alveolar polycarbonate, thermoacoustic rooftiles and wood cement boards. Large eaves of the roof, natural crossventilation and open circulations significantly improve the environmental comfort of the building.
The program of activities was organized in three floors so that the building could be built on an existing clearing in the site, avoiding deforestation. The top floor, at treetop height, houses a technical area which also works as an open, flexible use space.
Summing up, the building itself symbolizes the values of sustainability and social responsibility which characterize the MUCJI and the foundation’s program.
