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Congreso del Estado de Puebla

Serrano+ Serrano Arquitectos y Asociados

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Jorge Guadarrama
Jorge Guadarrama
Jorge Guadarrama
Jorge Guadarrama

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Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
Governmental Interior
6.88
7.19
7.00
7.38
7.11
Client
Government of the State of Puebla
Floor area
2569653 ㎡
Completion
2024
Budget
USD$41,957,534.97
Accessories

The State Congress of Puebla redefines public architecture, integrating design, functionality, sustainability, and social impact into a landmark project. Conceived as an iconic structure, it harmonizes with its historical and urban surroundings, maximizing the potential of its privileged
location atop Cerro Acueyametepec. Embedded within the natural volcanic bedrock, the project leverages its topographical context to reduce its volumetric impact while enhancing thermal performance. The green roofs, covering 59.92% of the structure, act as an insulating layer, mitigating heat island effects and reinforcing landscape continuity.

With sustainability at its core, the building meets environmental mandates, ensuring 40% permeable area and 60% free space. Its adaptive façade, composed of mullions, regulates solar incidence, optimizing energy efficiency. A high-performance thermal envelope further enhances
insulation, integrating sunshades and terraces to reduce heat absorption while restoring green spaces.

The project’s L-shaped typology, adapting to the terrain, houses legislative and administrative functions in two interconnected volumes. Natural lighting and ventilation permeate the structure, improving comfort while minimizing energy dependency.

Creativity as a Driver of Interaction Far from conventional government facilities, the complex introduces dynamic spaces fostering engagement. The internal street, illuminated by natural light, serves as an interactive corridor, designed for meetings, exhibitions, and informal encounters. The central atrium, shaped by the interplay of the two main volumes, reinforces connectivity and user interaction through thoughtful scale and proportion.
Public areas, including terraces, landscaped patios, and a library, encourage citizen participation, strengthening the link between government and community. A signature talavera mural by José Lazcarro, depicting The Battle of Puebla, adds a historical narrative to the project, weaving the
past into a contemporary architectural dialogue.

Beyond architecture, the project catalyzes urban revitalization, particularly in Xanenetla, a historically marginalized neighborhood. Once afflicted by sanitary hazards, the area has been reintegrated into the urban fabric, fostering a safer and more interactive environment. A wastewater treatment plant guarantees 100% reuse of gray and black water, while rainwater
harvesting supports landscape irrigation. The use of endemic vegetation eliminates reliance on potable water, reinforcing eco-conscious strategies.
Through multidisciplinary collaboration, the State Congress of Puebla emerges as a visionary model for future public architecture, merging environmental responsibility, social engagement, and cutting-edge design in a forward-thinking and functional civic space.