CONVENTION CENTER CAFAYATE

Conceptual Idea:
The environmental color is depicted as "impressionism" in the proposed architecture. The color of the earth, geological strata, textures, and the very materiality of the Calchaquí Valleys possess such strength and personality that they manifest in human spatiality. Architecture becomes environment, and environment becomes architecture.
Utilizing the soil itself to create spaces, employing existing materials without seeking elsewhere, allows for harmonizing, mimicking the architectural proposal, expressing a timeless essence amidst one of the planet's most beautiful landscapes. History, prehistory, and all geological eras are exuberantly displayed to form modern, contemporary architectural spaces, speaking in an almost heritage, almost eternal language.

Master Plan, Implementation, and Landscaping:
A vehicular flow system has been developed on the north side of the site, with two separate accesses: one for Convention Center users and another for trucks heading to the cobblestone factory. This new northern access, in addition to the existing one, prevents the crossing of flows between CC users and cargo transport during peak Convention Center activities, avoiding possible accidents or mutual inconveniences. The southern access to the factory will be shared with movement towards the waterfront, which is planned for various uses and promenades to take advantage of the riverside.

Materials of the Building:
Rammed earth, Quincha, or earthquake-resistant compacted earth, combined with exposed concrete and glass walls, form the envelope. The lightweight metal sheet roof is supported by freestanding cylindrical metal columns, creating a large umbrella for both the building and the closest perimeter. This generates transition spaces, spills, and galleries for protected use, shielding from wind, possible rain, and especially sun. Compacted earth has a massive thermal mass, providing highly efficient insulation and minimal energy consumption for space conditioning.

Bioclimatic and Sustainable Architecture:
1-meter thick compacted earth walls act as significant thermal insulation. Solar light utilization is maximized through orientation studies and glass facades protected by large eaves. A green area with trees creates a cool zone, while at the other end, pavement generates an upward air current to mimic the "Arab" chimney effect. The roof will feature photovoltaic cells for electricity generation for lighting and irrigation.

Functional Distribution:
The building features two circulation axes: a main North-South axis providing public and main accesses to the Foyer from a large semi-covered gallery, and a secondary longitudinal axis (East-West) connecting various activities. The western part houses administrative and support services, such as kitchen, bar, and storage, while the eastern part accommodates the Auditorium and Multipurpose Room (SUM). Earth Compacted Walls are configured in "U" to enhance stability, allowing space for COVID sanitization services, access controls, and catering services to support the main space, foyer, and halls.

Main Hall and Multipurpose Room:
The main hall is configured in a "T" shape with the SUM and can be divided into three smaller rooms for 200 seated persons each, or used directly for 600 persons. It is separated from the Multipurpose Room by sliding doors of considerable height, facilitating opening and connection to generate a much larger spatiality. This configuration enables adaptability, configurability, and diverse uses for the auditorium