Brief
Discover MAD Architects’ innovative Qondesa skyscraper in Quito, boasting a curved design to preserve natural light, a volcanic stone facade, and green spaces to redefine urban living in Ecuador’s capital.
Insight
MAD Architects’ upcoming Qondesa skyscraper in Quito, Ecuador, features a radical curved design aimed at preserving natural light and views for neighbouring buildings. This project marks MAD’s first foray into South America and contributes to Quito’s ongoing development, which includes high-profile towers like BIG’s Iqon and Carlos Zapata Studio’s Unique. Uribe Schwarzkopf is the developer behind all three projects.
While the exact height of Qondesa has not been disclosed, MAD has confirmed that it will be the tallest skyscraper in Quito, surpassing the current record-holder, Iqon, which stands at 130m (425 ft). The stone-coloured facade of Qondesa pays homage to Quito’s Old Town, where many historical buildings feature locally sourced volcanic stone. The facade is designed to resemble vines weaving around the building and tapering at the top.
The building’s curving form is expected to block some light, but it is a significant improvement over traditional rectangular skyscrapers. The structure will also incorporate planters on balconies and a rooftop garden. MAD explained that the exterior facade emulates twisting vines weaving around the building and sprouting greenery, forming planters on the balconies.
Furthermore, the exterior shape of Qondesa is designed to avoid blocking natural light and views for surrounding buildings.Qondesa is a green design comprising intimately scaled urban apartments and is conveniently connected to Quito’s main destinations via the nearby Iñaquito Metro station.
The building offers an ideal residential destination for city dwellers, being situated across from La Carolina Park, a 67-hectare (167-acre) active green space at the city’s heart, which connects residential, business, and leisure elements. The skyscraper features multiple amenities and communal areas, promoting a new possibility for a vertical community where residents play a vital role in animating the building.
Highlight
- This project marks MAD’s first foray into South America and contributes to Quito’s ongoing development, which includes high-profile towers like BIG’s Iqon and Carlos Zapata Studio’s Unique.
- The stone-coloured facade of Qondesa pays homage to Quito’s Old Town, where many historical buildings feature locally sourced volcanic stone.
- The building’s curving form is expected to block some light, but it is a significant improvement over traditional rectangular skyscrapers.
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