Richard Rogers Atrio Towers: A New Landmark in Bogotá

Images have been revealed of the first of a pair of high-tech skyscrapers in Bogotá, designed by the late Richard Rogers, which were described as “very close to his heart.” Began in 2012, the skyscraper forms part of the wider Atrio development, which will consist of two rhombus-shaped towers as well as a cultural centre and 10,000 square metres of public space.

The North Tower

Reaching 201 metres, the North Tower, which was completed in 2019, is now the second tallest building in the city. It contains 57,000 square metres of office space along with 1,800 square metres of retail. The fully-glazed skyscraper features chiselled volumes lined with exposed orange structural steels, following the high-tech style of Rogers.

South Tower and Cultural Centre

Construction has begun on the 62-storey South Tower and the cultural centre. When completed, the second skyscraper will be 268 metres high, making it the country’s tallest building. The cultural centre, set to be built at the base of the skyscrapers, was designed to maximize public accessibility, featuring a subterranean space topped with a low-lying roof garden and connected by a large exterior stair.

Public Space and Civic Renewal

Largely led by developer Nayib Neme Arango of Groupo A, with local architecture studio El Equipo Mazzanti, the skyscraper’s lower levels were elevated to increase public space. Double-height pavilions surrounding the skyscraper were outfitted with spaces such as an art gallery and market, and dotted with sculptures curated by local art studio NC Arte. The project was designed to respond to Bogotá’s initiative to increase public areas in the city, following the country’s civil wars.

Environmental Responsibility

RSHP sought to minimize new construction and “protect” as much of the existing structure as possible, aiming to be environmentally responsible. The overall design was informed by the structure of a 1960s convention centre that sat on the same site and had a large, sunken hall with “the feeling of being underground.”

Legacy of Richard Rogers

British-Italian architect Rogers passed away in 2021 at the age of 88. He was known for projects around the world such as the Centre Pompidou, designed with Renzo Piano, and the Lloyd’s building in London. The Atrio development, expected to be completed in late 2025, continues his legacy of innovative and high-tech architectural design.