Heatherwick Studio Weaves Colombian Craft into Bogotá Campus Design

In a celebration of Colombia’s rich cultural heritage, Heatherwick Studio has unveiled plans for a striking new design school and makers’ space for Universidad Ean in the heart of Bogotá. The seven-story structure, set to grace the university’s central Calle 72 campus, will be an architectural ode to the country’s indigenous craftsmanship.

The building’s facade, a true showstopper, will feature a vibrant tapestry of colorful, crafted columns and open terraces, drawing inspiration from the Werregue basketry tradition of the Wounaan community. This playful, biophilic design is a testament to Heatherwick Studio’s commitment to honoring local artistry while pushing the boundaries of sustainable architecture.

“Creativity is essential to Bogotá,” said Eliot Postma, group leader and partner at Heatherwick Studio. “It’s everywhere you look. We want students to feel a sense of pride in their campus even before they enter the building. The public square in front serves as a welcoming communal oasis amidst the busy urban environment.”

Nestled in a city renowned for its sustainable development initiatives and surrounded by the lush cloud forests that contribute to Colombia’s reputation as the world’s second-highest biodiversity hotspot, the new building will be a living, breathing embodiment of Universidad EAN’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Heatherwick Studio’s innovative design strategies will incorporate local plant species on the open terraces, blurring the lines between the built environment and nature. The architects are also developing cutting-edge facade materials to withstand Bogotá’s high altitude and intense sunlight, ensuring the building’s longevity and resilience in the face of the region’s unique climatic challenges.

Slated for construction in 2025, this project will mark Heatherwick Studio’s first foray into South America, a testament to the firm’s global reach and its dedication to celebrating the cultural richness of the communities it serves.

As Bogotá continues to cement its position as a hub of creativity and sustainability, this new campus will stand as a beacon of innovation, a harmonious fusion of time-honored traditions and forward-thinking design principles, inspiring generations of students to come.