American studio SOM, in collaboration with Mexico City-based Héctor Esrawe and Estudio AMA, has revealed designs for a striking skyscraper in Guadalajara, Mexico. This impressive project, named Legend, will feature a red-toned concrete facade and a blend of offices, retail spaces, a hotel, and apartments, marking a significant addition to the Andares Zapopan district.
Innovative Design and Local Collaboration
The Legend development comprises two distinct structures: a low-lying building with an expansive entry canopy marking the entrance to the Canopy hotel and a towering 52-storey skyscraper. Once completed, the skyscraper will rise 190 meters, becoming the tallest building in the district. The project’s design emphasizes both international sophistication and local cultural elements, leveraging materials and craftsmanship unique to the region.
Unique Red-Toned Concrete Facade
The facade of both buildings will be clad in concrete panels, tinted with local minerals to achieve a distinctive reddish hue. This special concrete blend will create a vibrant and dynamic exterior, enriched with hand-chiselled details to add texture and a human touch to the design. “Legend is a project that is of its time and place, bringing international stature rooted in local culture, materials, and craft,” said SOM design principal José Luis Palacios.
Architectural Features and Passive Cooling
The skyscraper will feature a symmetrical design with floor plates marked by louvred concrete panels and floor-to-ceiling glass. The concrete panels will extend down each floor, providing shading and promoting passive cooling, an essential feature for the building’s environmental efficiency. The base of the skyscraper will include these louvres, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the design.
Luxurious Interiors by Héctor Esrawe
Héctor Esrawe leads the interior design, creating spaces that are both elegant and reflective of Guadalajara’s vibrant culture. The interior will feature minimalist design elements with a focus on natural materials and textures, seamlessly blending with the exterior’s handmade surfaces. Large patios and terraces will be integrated throughout the skyscraper, providing ample outdoor space and stunning views of the city.
A Mixed-Use Development with Cultural Significance
Legend will not only offer luxurious living and working spaces but also serve as a cultural hub. The development includes a mix of amenities such as mid-point terraces, rooftop areas, and various recreational facilities. These features are designed to reflect the cultural diversity of Guadalajara, one of Mexico’s largest cities, and to promote a sense of community among residents and visitors.
A Collaborative Effort for a Historic Change
According to Estudio AMA founder Andrés Muñoz Alarcón, Legend represents a significant collaborative effort among some of the best minds in architecture and design. “Inspired by local traditions and seeking evolution to become the project that will represent a historic change in its context,” Alarcón stated. This project embodies the spirit of innovation and respect for local culture, aiming to set a new standard in architectural excellence.
Completion and Future Impact
Developed by Trust Capital, the Legend skyscraper is slated for completion in 2029. This project will undoubtedly become a landmark in Guadalajara, contributing to the city’s booming design and architecture scene. With its blend of international design and local craftsmanship, Legend is poised to become an iconic structure, representing the fusion of modern innovation and traditional Mexican artistry.
Conclusion
The Legend skyscraper in Guadalajara, designed by SOM in collaboration with Estudio AMA and Héctor Esrawe, stands as a testament to the power of architectural collaboration and cultural integration. This red-toned concrete marvel will not only redefine the skyline of Guadalajara but also set a new benchmark for sustainable, culturally-rooted design in the region. As construction progresses, the world eagerly anticipates the completion of this extraordinary project, which promises to be a beacon of architectural brilliance and a celebration of local heritage.
Images: SOM, Estudio AMA and RAUM
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