moreno 2681's transparent glass facade reflects buenos aires' cityscape

palca estudio’s moreno 2681 integrates Work and Residence units

Moreno 2681, designed by palca estudio, stands as a mixed-use building in Balvanera, a central Buenos Aires neighborhood marked by a diverse architectural landscape and cultural blend. Commissioned to establish a distinctive institutional identity, Moreno 2681 seamlessly integrates administrative offices with temporary residences. The transparent glass facade, a fundamental aspect of the initial brief, embodies a symbolic connection to the cityscape.

Initially considering a unified block for work and living spaces, practical considerations led to a thoughtful division into two independent blocks. The front hosts offices, engaging with the bustling street, while the residential block enjoys a quieter, more secluded atmosphere at the rear.

Respecting the non-buildable area mandated by city regulations, the structure gracefully conforms to its designated silhouette. The resulting dual-block structure optimizes available space while complying with urban guidelines. A central void, adorned with organic landscaping, white stones, and growing vegetation, serves as a communal hub linking the two blocks. Designed with gathering spaces in mind, the garden fosters interaction among building occupants.

all images by Javier Agustin Rojas

Moreno 2681’s Adaptive Spaces Achieve Efficiency and Timelessness

The office block, spanning four levels, embraces open layouts adaptable to evolving work dynamics. Balconies and terraces on each floor blur indoor-outdoor boundaries. The residential segment, comprises stacked duplex apartments, each operating as an individual unit designed with the minimum elements necessary to be temporarily inhabited.

Navigating Argentina’s intricate economic landscape, Moreno 2681 prioritizes efficiency and durability in construction. Utilizing reinforced concrete, lightweight masonry, textured white anodized aluminum frames in the windows, and airtight double glazing, the design ensures longevity, thermal efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

Against the backdrop of Balvanera’s eclectic urban fabric, Moreno 2681 by palca estudio stands out with its synthesis as contrast. Pure lines, geometric composition, and a predominance of white elements communicate order and timelessness in response to the surrounding complexity.

Moreno 2681 by palca estudio seamlessly integrates administrative offices and temporary residences

the transparent glass facade symbolically connects Moreno 2681 to the vibrant cityscape

the building splits into two blocks—a front-facing office space and a quieter residential block at the rear

the dual-block structure optimizes space while complying with urban guidelines

a central void, adorned with organic landscaping, serves as a communal hub, fostering interactions

balconies and terraces on each floor blur indoor-outdoor boundaries, creating versatile and engaging spaces

Moreno 2681 stands out with pure lines, geometric composition, and a predominance of white elements

1/3

 

 

 

project info:

name: Moreno 2681
architect: palca estudio | @palcaestudio

design team: Germán Lentini, Manuel Heck, Franco Caruso, Tomás Ochandorena & Violeta Sangrá

location: Buenos Aires, Argentina

photography: Javier Agustin Rojas | @javieragustinrojas

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom