architectural restauration
virgilio barco
library
Colombia’s cultural heritage
For this project, we were commissioned by “Bibliored” and the city of Bogota to direct and supervise critical restorations for the VIRGILIO BARCO LIBRARY designed by “Alvar Alto medal” winning recipient, Colombian architect Rogelio Salmona.
Exterior view of the library
The Virgilio Barco library is a UNESCO world heritage building designed by the most renowned Colombian architect of the 20th century Rogelio Salmona. We were tasked with the crucial restoration of the iconic “lucarnas,” a top of the terraces.
The intricate brickwork is characterized by Paths delimited by sloping volumes and geometric patterns directed to the sky, symbolizing the pre-Columbian Quimbaya culture.
The terraced organic forms remind us of pre-Columbian architecture, from the Mayan ruins to La Ciudad Perdida in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Large windows at the back of these volumes provide overhead light to the rooms on the next level.
Photo: Mike Butler Photography ©
Before and after comparison
Detail of the brick alignment
“lucarnas” section and geometric plan
Axonometric Projection
Final view of the terrace and the brick “lucarnas”
Terrace Floorplan
Construction process, brick setting
Brick laying technique used specifically to preserve the curvature at precise angles
behind the design
We intended to restore these iconic “lucarnas” with the same architectural rigor that characterized Salmona’s buildings. Using the latest 3D scanning technology (FARO focus laser) and skilled brick artisans who worked with the architect during the original construction, we completely restored the building to the architect’s original vision.
The Virgilio Barco Library has become one of the most significant urban projects in the city of Bogotá. The contribution to the Metropolitan Park sector, recognized for its recreational development, opened an essential link in developing educational activities for the public.
Rogelio Salmona always neatly resolved granular details to provide the city with a serene and welcoming environment based on the right to the city and thus promote cultural inclusion through his projects.