December 2023
Professor Gregory Melitonov
Collaborator Darius Polillio
Guatemala is a country with an intense political climate, often compelling its citizens to protest against a corrupt government in favor of electing a democratic leader. Historically, the United States has intervened in Guatemalan political affairs to maintain its sphere of influence and colonialism in Central America. A retrofit for the institute of Guatemalan and American relations (IGA) and the cultural arm of the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala, this project explores how democracy can be architecturalized by promoting access to education and engaging with political activism.
This proposal introduces a mural-lined, elevated pedestrian walkway intersecting with the existing building as well as an expanded metal mesh system that interacts to facilitate circulation within an urban network.
Site Context
Facade studies explore the relationship between the undulating surface of the expanded metal mesh and the correlating interior program.
Transparency Studies
Facade Panel Studies
Site Diagrams
The threshold between the existing facade and the perforated mesh envelope allows for new program exterior to the existing building, which is faced with political imagery. The mesh system interacts with the ground to specify points of entry and peels up to frame a courtyard occupying the space between the IGA building and the adjacent theater.
The mural-lined pathway connects with existing pedestrian overpasses to direct foot traffic to the building. The walkway punctures the building’s atrium and intersects with two galleries showcasing artifacts and curated exhibits of Guatemalan political history and artifacts.
Ground Floor Plan
Second Floor Plan
Building Axon
Street Entrance
Large Gallery
Courtyard Entrance
Mural-Lined Corridor
Renderings using Enscape