Between the layers of Landscape

Date 2020
Status Project
Team Región AustralEl taller de ArquitectosMetha Arquitectos
Client Municipal Government of Villavicencio
Location Villavicencio, Colombia

Alma Viva understands the context and history of the territory it inhabits and establishes itself as a new structuring element of the city and a regional park. It highlights the natural and cultural heritage of Villavicencio as the capital of the Llanos piedmont. The Park serves as a key piece in the urban fabric, a public, ecological, and recreational space, and an identity symbol for the city.
The proposal is built upon three strategies:

1.MENDING: The site is understood as a confluence of environmental, social, and aesthetic values, as well as a natural remnant of a landscape altered over time, with fragmented forests. Therefore, the project proposes:
- Environmental actions aimed at connecting and integrating the biotic network of the ecological corridor in which the park is located, consolidating its ecological assets and their associated benefits.
- Connectivity and mobility measures that integrate the proposal into the urban system through a network of paths and routes, ensuring accessibility and fostering community engagement.

2.DIVERSIFYING: The Park seeks to restore and enhance biodiversity through biological strategies, incorporating native species and preserving the richness of existing flora and fauna. Additionally, the proposal expands urban offerings with facilities, activities, and educational and cultural programs. It also creates recreational and public spaces, encouraging a plurality of uses and users, both within the park and its immediate surroundings.

3.ENHANCING: The Park amplifies the environmental, economic, and cultural values of its context through nature-based design strategies and architecture aimed at minimal impact on the territory. It strengthens the park's role as a water source within the regional ecological structure through passive measures aligned with the hydrological system. Furthermore, it enhances the park’s symbolic and social value as a hub for activities, ecotourism, productive areas, and environmental education, promoting the social development of Villavicencio's residents.