Salas Regionales del Golfo / VOX STUDIO

Save this picture!

+ 21

Save this picture!

Text description provided by the architects. Located at the top of a hill overviewing the city of Xalapa, Veracruz, the project undertakes the downward geography of the site by introducing a solid and half buried volume over which the building is raised. The design of the building itself is in the shape of a balance, which evokes justice.

Save this picture!

The ground floor, which constitutes the architectural plinth, holds the public and social functions of the building. Two extended patios provide natural light and ventilation.  

Save this picture!

A third volume, a rectangular prism, lies in a perpendicular position over the plinth. The solid extremes of the prism are suspended in cantilever, acting as the scales of the balance. Inside, the judges dictate the sentences for the trials that are lead.

Save this picture!

At the same time, the scales of the balance are functionally related with the access platform, creating exterior covered hallways, allowing the entrance to the building and providing meeting points.

Save this picture!

The interior service core obstructs the west sunlight, creating a natural isolation between the solar radiation and the working areas. They also allow for proper ventilation, distributing fresh air through the building. Together with other energy saving measures, this natural system allows the building to use only half the energy consumed by a conventional office building, ensuring its sustainability.

Save this picture!