projects . architecture
BNDES Headquarters
at a glance
Location
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Status
Project
Client
National Bank of Social and Economic Development (BNDES)
Type
Institutional
Size
23.430 sqm
The proposed design for the new BNDES annex celebrates the institution's identity by creating efficient, welcoming, and socially engaged spaces that reflect its public mission.
The architectural approach emphasizes integration with the urban fabric through a publicly accessible ground-level walkway. This open space, paved in traditional carioca wave patterns using Portuguese stone, extends from the surrounding public areas into the building itself—blurring the boundary between private and public realms. This design gesture fosters permeability and civic interaction, offering a dignified contribution to the city.
The project's occupation strategy is guided by three key principles:
a) Seamless integration into the urban landscape, with architectural treatment given to all four façades and the roof—conceived as a fifth façade;
b) Activation of the building's access points as zones of dialogue with the city, encouraging interaction and architectural appreciation;
c) A clear topographical break that both elevates the surrounding landscape and preserves the human scale.
Sustainability and energy efficiency are core to the design. Bioclimatic strategies reduce dependence on mechanical systems. Natural light and ventilation are optimized through a central atrium, operable openings on the first two floors, and brise-soleil elements on the southwest and northwest façades, all contributing to environmental performance and occupant comfort.
