The renovation and expansion of the Erechim City Council building stems from an understanding and appreciation of the historical and architectural significance of the structure designed by José Carlos Maffessoni. The project respects modernist ideals and the established urban landscape by restoring the building’s original volumetry, preserving the design of the northern and eastern facades, and removing superfluous additions.
The new construction offers a natural continuation of the lines established by the existing building’s facade. It extends the horizontal band of the parapet, seamlessly integrating it into the architectural ensemble. The preserved void between the two structures enhances the individuality of each building, creating a subtle tension of proximity without physical contact on their external planes. Similarly, the repetition of columns in the new structure reinforces shared architectural values.
The facade facing Uruguai Avenue is shaded by a textile solar protection element, widely available in Brazil. This feature softens the perception of the new volume while emphasizing Maffessoni’s modernist construction. Additionally, it contributes to user comfort by filtering solar radiation and reducing thermal load through constant ventilation between the screen and the external facade.
The new facade is divided into three sections: The upper section aligns with the preexisting structure; The middle section slopes westward, facilitating garage access and harmonizing with the neighboring residential Building; The lower section is recessed, forming a glazed base that is both protected and integrated with the human scale of the pedestrian area.
To distribute the program across the two buildings, two guiding principles were adopted:
1. Maximizing vertical integration: The new building adds more floors, alternating with the original levels to maintain the vertical limit and minimize deep excavation. This approach reduces earthmoving, integrates the volume more smoothly with the terrain, and ensures economic feasibility. At the junction of the two structures, an atrium is introduced as a democratic space offering visual transparency—both literal and symbolic—within the municipal legislative house. This space houses the vertical circulation core, serving as a pivotal transition between the buildings. Additionally, the atrium enhances natural ventilation, prioritizing comfort through the chimney effect, complemented by localized artificial climate control.
2.Program allocation based on function:
Deliberative spaces, such as the main chamber, secondary meeting rooms, and public interaction areas like the reception, lobby, café, and memorial, remain in the original building. This ensures the historical space retains its prominence as the centerpiece of civic and public activities. Administrative functions, including offices and technical areas, are housed in the new building to optimize workflows and address current and future demands.
The expansion also incorporates circulation areas as communal spaces fostering interaction, permanence, and democratic dialogue, thus invigorating political exchanges and civic engagement. Skylights at corridor ends, paired with voids and vegetated areas, humanize daily experiences and transform circulation paths into shared spaces.
