Designing for Mérida: Mérida Banking and Commercial School

The Mérida Banking and Commercial School, situated north of Mérida, serves as the second campus of its kind in the city. Nestled in a burgeoning area, this new building aims to accommodate a larger student body while reflecting the region’s unique characteristics. IUA Ignacio Urquiza Arquitectos, the architectural firm behind the project, carefully considered the program, terrain, and bioclimatic features of the region in developing the school’s design.

Responding to Bioclimatic Challenges

Mérida presents extreme bioclimatic conditions, characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and intense sunlight. To address these challenges, the campus features a solid, heavy appearance with minimal openings on its south, east, and west facades. In contrast, the north-facing side is fully open to capitalize on uniform lighting and ventilation. The use of chukum, a local material known for its durability and low maintenance, ensures the campus withstands the region’s climatic conditions.

Tailored Program and Layout

The campus accommodates a diverse range of facilities, including classrooms, auditoriums, a cafeteria, library, gym, administrative offices, and service areas. Despite the narrow rectangular plot, the design comprises six interconnected buildings arranged in a linear scheme. Each building serves a specific function, fostering interaction and modulating the campus space. The strategic layout optimizes solar orientation, shading, and cross-ventilation while creating cohesive public spaces.

Harmonizing Built and Void Spaces

In addition to focusing on classrooms, particular attention was given to circulation spaces and voids that connect various program elements. A central axis links entrances and parking on the ground level, while linear corridors on upper levels facilitate movement between buildings. These corridors, varying in width and configuration, double as communal gathering spaces, enriching the overall educational experience.

The Mérida Banking and Commercial School exemplifies a harmonious blend of architectural innovation and environmental responsiveness, offering a conducive learning environment for students while embodying the essence of its locale.