URBAN HYGIENE UNIT IN BELÉM
The topography of the existing terrain proved to be the most important constraint for defining the location of the new building. It was decided to concentrate all the construction on the south side of the plot, allowing the north side to become an empty platform, on a higher level, dedicated to loading and unloading of heavy vehicles, with access from the east.
The cross section of the building was designed so that, despite the fact that the building is half buried, all areas have natural light and ventilation. The first floor is recessed in relation to the longitudinal façades creating lightwells that illuminate the lower level; and freeing the main façade from the need to formalise the pragmatism of service areas and locker room windows. The main façade is thus assumed as an abstract plane materialised in brick, perforated, and detached from the ground and roof allowing lighting and access to the ground floor level, and unobstructed views over the river on the top floor.
