Buenos Aires is a lively city with a vibrant social life, but to our surprise it only has m of public green space per person compared to the nine square meters recommended by WHO. This was something BIGs design could address. As a result, the two blocks are transformed into five towers. Each tower is given a different height to eliminate the sensation of a wall. The podium is reduced into semi-sunken pavilions, turning their roofs into green slopes. The bases of each tower are eroded diminishing the footprint and allowing a public park to expand.
The House creates two intimate interior courtyards, separated by the bowtie knot which houses m of communal facilities, available for all residents. At the very same spot, the building is pierced by a m wide passageway that allows people to easily move from the park area on its western edge to the water filled canals to the east. Instead of dividing the different functions of the building for both habitation and trade into separate blocks, the various functions have been spread out horizontally.
The History Collection at the lower level is where visitors can experience an archival immersion into the LEGO company and brand’s story. The Vault located underneath LEGO Square is where children and AFoLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) can witness the first edition of almost every LEGO set ever manufactured, including the new -piece, -step kit replicating the stacked-block formation of the LEGO House.
Nearly all of the units have unique layouts, appealing to the diverse group of residents across different age groups. The interior spaces are inspired by Scandinavian design and touches from South American modernism that feature tactile natural materials, including white oak floors and unique wooden details. Ceramic granite is used in the bathrooms while the kitchens boast natural stone. Large windows invite greenery from the terraces and views from the national park into the residences, creating a smooth transition between inside and outside.
A technical study has been undertaken to determine and address the nature of any conflicts with existing infrastructure and landowners. In February of , owing to this pro-bono BQP effort, the NYC Department of Transportation officially shelved previous plans, and an official New York City Council study endorsed the BQP approach, with City Council Speaker Corey Johnson stating “This is something we’re going to live with for the next years. Let’s make sure we do it right”. Work is now set to begin on establishing a governance structure to take the project forward.