Torremadariaga Basque Biodiversity Centre
TORREMADARIAGA BASQUE BIODIVERSITY CENTRE
IA+B Arkitektura Taldea
ARCHITECTURES
IA+B Arkitektura Taldea
AREA
3142.0 m²
YEAR
2003
LOCATION
Busturia, Spain
CATEGORY
Public Space
Text description provided by architect.
The proposal is based on absolute respect for the existing building, which consists of a 15th century tower house with a later to which a mansion was attached in the 18th century, both examples of the Basque vernacular architecture.
Based on this premise, a proposal that emphasized the historic and architectural values of these buildings was designed, housing the new public programme below ground with the only new construction visible from the exterior being punctual elements to solve access and lighting requirements.
Whilst the 18th century mansion slab structure was rebuilt, the interior of the tower was left empty to highlight the historical memories of the bare architecture of the construction.
The old and new buildings are connected on the ground floor, so the mansion-tower maintains its dominant position over the landscape.
This connection is considered to be a natural extension of the building itself, creating perfect harmony between the two parts and their surroundings.
The selection of materials also follows a respectful attitude towards the existing architecture.
Using wood stone and glass as the only main materials.
