Carolina University – Phase I
In the city of Saltillo, in the north of Mexico, close to the urban center, on a hill with irregular topography is located Carolina University. Surrounded by walnut trees, pines, oaks, evergreen oaks, huisaches, pirules and nopaleras, which in some cases are up to 80 years old. The project arises from the methodical and orderly reading of the environment, starting from the heart that is the forest.
The concept of the project is based on a system of modules that move and offset, depending on the characteristics of the location, in the manner of Master Jørn Utzon's group of Kingo houses. The design dialogues with the environment, saving the existing vegetation and adapting to the topography of the land.
The complex contains seven modules divided into two bodies that are articulated by a module for services and stairs. Each module, with a rectangular plan measuring 11.50m x 6.50m, consists of a classroom on the ground floor and another on the upper floor. In front, the south façade, has a walkway that functions as a meeting and transition space between the forest and the interior of the building. This space is framed by a permeable arcade on the façade, filtering the light in a particular way in each module.
The structure of the complex is in gray concrete with an apparent finish, structural brick and steel. These components are exposed showing their operation and making them part of the experience of the journey through the gaps and breaks that occur in the whole.
