Environmental Design Consultancy
Bank of Chile Main Headquarters - Retrofit Project (2014-2015)
Total area: 7,500 m² (to date)
Architects: S3
Studies developed as part of Estudio Diav.
The rehabilitation of historical Bank of Chile's main headquarters in Santiago, has been planned by stages. The complex was originally one high density block in city centre filled with a number of buildings, created as the times required. Some of these constructions have protected heritage status. The project attempts to unify all buildings, making use of interstitial areas, and renovating all buildings. It considers new HVAC, lighting, and other services, as well as new layouts and furniture.
The main feature is the use of all external residual spaces to be integrated into circulations, and to be used to provide better spaces and ventilation within the buildings. To date on early 2015, we have simulated different office layouts and indoor materials for the offices, in order to ensure better natural light. We have also developed energy models to assist the design of HVAC systems.
The most relevant feature consists of the new cafeterias on the top level, which was originally planned as an atrium. Together with the hallways, these areas presented great opportunity to develop natural ventilation strategies. At the same time, there were great concerns for overheating, and for very warm air moving downwards towards the offices. We proposed shading devices able to operate in summer and winter. We also tested the possibility of using stack ventilation to improve air circulation, and aid the mechanical ventilation systems.
Original elevation of protected buildings
Whole block to be restored. To be carried out by stages.
Reference section shows residual area between buildings
Current situation on the left, and architects proposal on the right
Current state of residual spaces
Residual spaces projected as circulations and ventilation strategies thermal engines.
Residual spaces projected as circulations and ventilation strategies thermal engines.
Projects general section, with cafeterias on top level
Cafeterias on top level. Daylighting models
Cafeterias on top level. Daylighting models
Cafeterias on top level. Daylighting models. Testing of different shading devices
Free running temperatures analysis in cafeteria, considering different types of shading devices
HVAC loads for cafeteria considering different shading devices and ventilations trategies
Testing of stack effect on hallways
Testing of stack effect on hallways
Daylighting studies for office buildings, considering different layouts and materials.