To value hard work: that is the union’s main concern. This is something to be expressed often, be it in actions or in the words or gestures. The building that houses the union is one big gesture that symbolizes this idea-force. It wants to be present in the city’s scenery because it is proud of its mission. It wants to be open to all gazes, transparent and welcoming, because it has nothing to hide. Its inner square fits all its fights and claims.
From that comes our idea to create the room for collective work, all interconnected, solidary, committed, simultaneous. The structure is clean, simple and airy.
On the West façade, the longer one, the curves in motion resemble aligned flags.
The auditorium integrates itself to the foyer and the gallery, and creates a continued space for large meetings and assemblies.
The paths are clear and direct. There are no hiding corners, no labyrinths, which inspires trust. The Metalworkers’ Union Building, with its Strong and serene figure, wants to represent the power in the workers’ cohesion and the importance of fighting for their rights.
Architecture
Gustavo Penna, Ricardo Gomes Lopes, Norberto Bambozzi, Laura Penna, Priscila Dias de Araújo, Letícia de Paula Carneiro, Vivian Hunnicutt, Alyne Ferreira, Natália Ponciano, Catarina Hermanny
Project management and planning
Risia Botrel and Isabela Tolentino
Location
Betim – Minas Gerais – Brasil
Technical data
Project year: 2010
Built area: 6,855 m²
Pictures by
Jomar Bragança
