The new transport hub responds to the growing needs of the University of the Basque Country (Northern Spain). The construction combines architectural rationality with sound engineering design.
A primary structure of prefabricated concrete rises within a rectangular urban plot. Within it, a secondary structure of galvanized steel helps to form the more practical elements of the structure; a wrap around facade, canopy, staircases and the lighting columns. The building is constructed in two levels. The first is hidden from view below ground level and is used as a parking and collection point for coaches. The upper level formed from a galvanized facade houses the main car park.
In order to minimise the impact of the overall structure the various elements that form the building have been cleverly colour coordinated. The facade steel blends with the earthy colours of its surroundings and the upper deck and ramps are painted blue, to integrate with the deep blue of the Basque sky.
To reduce construction time and minimise waste generation, prefabricated concrete was used for the main structure. The secondary structure, of galvanized steel, was designed with great care: not only to help with the structural objective of keeping support elements to a minimum but also providing a lighter touch to the overall design.
Corrosion protection was of primary concern for the project, given its proximity to the coast. Hot dip galvanizing was the obvious choice for protecting all the steelwork used within the project. A single 80 μm paint coating was used to provide the final aesthetic for the steelwork. As a result it has been calculated that the structure will have a life of more than 50 years.
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