Torres del Parque, designed by Rogelio Salmona and completed between 1964 and 1970, is one of the most iconic examples of 20th-century Latin American architecture. Situated in the heart of Bogotá, Colombia, these three brick towers redefine high-rise living and exemplify Salmona’s commitment to designing in harmony with the urban and natural environments. The project’s architectural significance lies in its ability to integrate modernist principles with regional and cultural sensitivity, making it a landmark that inspires architects worldwide.
Torres del Parque Technical Information
- Architects: Rogelio Salmona
- Location: Bogotá, Colombia
- Area: 32,000 m2 | 344,400 Sq. Ft.
- Project Year: 1964-1970
- Photographs: Flickr Users, See Caption Details
The Residential Complex of the Park sought to demonstrate that it was possible… to propose architectural and spatial concepts for Bogotá that contradicted the trend towards enclosure, the neglect of the landscape, luminosity, or the attributes of materials.
– Rogelio Salmona
Torres del Parque Photographs
Torres del Parque Architectural Analysis
Rogelio Salmona’s philosophy was deeply rooted in the idea of contextual modernism—an approach that emphasizes the importance of architecture responding to its specific site and cultural context. With Torres del Parque, he achieved a harmonious balance between form, function, and place, cementing his legacy as one of Latin America’s most innovative architects.
The design of Torres del Parque is a masterclass in formal and spatial innovation. Salmona’s architectural language is characterized by its use of locally sourced brick. This material grounds the towers in Colombian tradition and allows for intricate patterns and textures that play with light and shadow. The towers’ cylindrical forms break from conventional high-rise geometry, creating a dynamic visual interplay with the surrounding landscape.
The project’s spatial dynamics are equally compelling. Salmona prioritized creating communal spaces that foster social interaction, such as the terraces and internal courtyards that connect residents and the outdoors. Each unit is designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, seamlessly blending interior and exterior environments.
Vertical urbanism, a concept explored in Torres del Parque, challenges the typical anonymity of high-rise living. Salmona’s design fosters a sense of community by integrating shared spaces and emphasizing human-scale interactions, even within a towering structure.
Good architecture will become ruins. Bad architecture disappears. But for you to know it is a ruin, you have to wait a lot of time. I hope the [Del Parque] Towers not to be ruins today but one thousand years from now.
– Rogelio Salmona
Integration with Context
One of Torres del Parque’s most remarkable achievements is its seamless integration with its urban and natural surroundings. The project is adjacent to Bogotá’s Independence Park, and Salmona’s design intentionally blurs the boundaries between the built environment and the park’s greenery. The terraces and courtyards act as transitional spaces that invite nature into residents’ daily lives.
Cultural sensitivity is at the core of the project. By employing local materials and drawing inspiration from traditional Colombian architecture, Salmona creates a design that resonates with the city’s identity. The brick towers, with their earthy hues and tactile surfaces, feel intrinsically tied to Bogotá’s landscape and heritage.
Environmental considerations further underscore Salmona’s forward-thinking approach. Passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation and the strategic orientation of the towers, address Bogotá’s temperate climate while minimizing the need for mechanical systems. These choices exemplify how thoughtful design can achieve sustainability without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.
Legacy
Torres del Parque has left an indelible mark on Colombian and global architecture. The project is celebrated for its innovative use of materials, human-centric design, and ability to create a meaningful dialogue between architecture and its context. It has become a symbol of Bogotá, embodying the city’s resilience and cultural richness.
However, no architectural work is without its challenges. The density of the towers and the complexity of maintaining their intricate brickwork have posed ongoing issues. Additionally, the project’s reliance on public and communal spaces requires continuous stewardship to preserve its original vision.
Torres del Parque Plans
Torres del Parque Image Gallery
About Rogelio Salmona
Rogelio Salmona (1929–2007) was a Colombian architect renowned for his innovative use of materials, especially brick, and his commitment to integrating architecture with its cultural and natural contexts. Born in Paris and educated in Bogotá, Salmona’s architectural philosophy was shaped by his time working with Le Corbusier in Paris. Upon returning to Colombia, he developed a distinct style characterized by harmonizing modernist principles with regional traditions. His work, including landmarks like Torres del Parque and the Virgilio Barco Library, emphasizes communal spaces, environmental sensitivity, and a deep connection to the local context.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Design Team: Rogelio Salmona and collaborators
- Materials: Locally sourced brick
- Total Area: Approximately 32,000 square meters
- Structural Engineer: Guillermo Gonzalez Zuleta
- Client: Caja de la Vivienda Popular
