Jardines Residential Building: A Sustainable and Multifunctional Housing Project in Medellín’s Sevilla Neighborhood | Bachelors Design Project

Site Context

The project is situated in the Sevilla neighborhood of Aranjuez, Medellín, along Juan del Corral Street—an essential link between the university area and the hospital zone. This strategic setting generates both urban tension and potential, as it sits at the intersection of high foot traffic, public services, and underused land.

The surrounding environment faces challenges such as declining biodiversity and a lack of cohesion between infrastructure and the local community. In response, the proposal introduces a multifunctional housing development that combines residential spaces with street-level commercial areas and an educational botanical walkway. This design aims to enrich everyday life in the neighborhood, foster community connections, and celebrate the area’s botanical traditions—particularly during events like the Feria de las Flores.

Design Process

The design process began with a thorough analysis of the neighborhood, using urban mapping, flow studies, and reference projects. Conversations with local residents uncovered community needs and aspirations, guiding the identification of key urban nodes and connections that informed the site selection and overall architectural program.

The building was envisioned as a composition of interlocking volumes, connected by open courtyards and voids to promote both physical and visual permeability. Its design evolved through digital modeling, bioclimatic performance simulations, and physical prototypes. Community involvement was vital in validating design decisions and ensuring the project’s social relevance. The entire process embraced a systemic methodology, combining empirical data from the Aburrá Valley with a nuanced understanding of the local context.

Final Outcome

The final outcome is a permeable structure that connects two major streets, centered around a courtyard block that serves as both an environmental and educational hub. On the ground floor, local shops and communal spaces bring life to Juan del Corral Street, while the upper residential units are designed to harness natural light, promote cross ventilation, and maintain thermal comfort through bioclimatic principles.

Beyond being a mixed-use building, the project encourages both social and ecological connections. It caters to neighborhood residents, pedestrians, and visitors—especially during cultural events like the Feria de las Flores. By honoring the area’s identity, aligning with natural rhythms, and engaging the community, “Jardines” stands out as a forward-thinking and scalable example of architecture with meaningful social and environmental impact.

Conclusion: The project showcases how community-driven design can transform underutilized urban spaces into vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable environments. It integrates housing, commerce, education, and nature, strengthening neighborhood identity and highlighting architecture’s potential for positive urban change.

[This Academic Project has been published with text and images submitted by the student]