CURITIBA, BRAZIL - A groundbreaking residential high-rise, dubbed 'AGE360', has recently been completed in the burgeoning Mossunguê district of Curitiba, Brazil, heralding a new era of architectural ingenuity. The 124-meter, 36-story edifice is the result of a collaborative vision between the esteemed Franco-Brazilian atelier Triptyque and the São Paulo-based Architects Office, commissioned by the prominent real estate developer AG7 Realty. The structure is distinguished by its pioneering load-bearing concrete exoskeleton, a design element that has garnered significant attention within the architectural community.
The genesis of AGE360's design lies in the fundamental concept of an exposed concrete lattice, the exoskeleton, which was conceived as an integral structural component from the project's inception. This initial grid underwent a meticulous process of refinement, with its angles and form adapting in response to the specific constraints and opportunities presented by the site's planning regulations, the prevailing climatic conditions, and the intended functional program of the building.
Olivier Raffaëlli, a co-founder of Triptyque, elucidated the project's central tenet in an interview with Dezeen, stating, "The fundamental idea of the project emerged from the very first design sketches, contemplating a load-bearing raw concrete exoskeleton juxtaposed with expansive fenestration." He further elaborated on the adaptive nature of the design, noting, "This flexibly articulated grid is subject to deformations influenced by internal programmatic requirements and external forces, including the interplay of light and wind, as well as the statutory and urbanistic limitations of the surrounding environment. This dynamic interplay of deformations culminates in an architecture that exhibits both responsiveness and adaptability, while steadfastly adhering to the core principles of elemental simplicity and functional efficacy."
The structural integrity of the edifice is primarily achieved through the external concrete exoskeleton, which encases the entirety of the building in conjunction with a central load-bearing core that houses the vertical circulation elements, namely the stairwells and elevators. This innovative structural approach obviates the necessity for internal columns within the individual apartment units, thereby affording occupants unobstructed 360-degree panoramic vistas of the cityscape.
Integral to the design philosophy of AGE360 is a commitment to the holistic well-being of its residents. To this end, the building incorporates a diverse array of communal spaces dedicated to "physical and mental health," including a fully equipped gymnasium, a dedicated care center, a luxurious spa, and tranquil meditation areas. A particularly noteworthy feature is the expansive mid-level terrace, which offers a unique sanctuary with tiered, verdant seating areas and a swimming pool, providing residents with an exceptional space for repose and recreation.
Raffaëlli underscored the design's efficiency, stating, "The selection of the exoskeleton, the internal load-bearing core devoid of intermediate columns, the fenestration grid, and the integrated water drainage shaft system collectively enables a completely unencumbered spatial configuration on each floor." He further acknowledged that "only the deliberate discontinuities introduced into the grid to accommodate communal spaces present constraints that interrupt the otherwise pervasive uniformity of the design principle."
The building's facade is punctuated by substantial void spaces, strategically positioned to offer residents private, open-air external areas, which simultaneously contribute to the structure's distinctive sculptural aesthetic. The interior design palette is characterized by the use of refined materials, including stone flooring and elegant wood paneling, fostering an atmosphere of understated minimalism that serves as a complementary backdrop to the sweeping urban panoramas visible through the expansive windows.
At the ground level, the building seamlessly integrates with its surroundings through a thoughtfully designed, tree-lined plaza, intended to establish a harmonious connection with the adjacent streets and the nearby verdant expanse.
It is noteworthy that Triptyque has recently concluded another significant residential project in São Paulo, characterized by thin concrete slabs extending outward to create generous balconies, further solidifying their reputation for innovative design. The completion of AGE360 stands as a testament to the progressive spirit of Brazilian architecture, offering a compelling synthesis of structural innovation and sophisticated design that is poised to invigorate the nation's architectural landscape.
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