The University of Málaga's Faculty of Tourism showcases a remarkable architectural design by Vaillo + Irigaray Architects, featuring a unique blend of exposed concrete and courtyard spaces. This innovative structure, located in the expanding Teatinos campus, offers a total area of 22,904 square meters for educational and student facilities.
The architects drew inspiration from the rich history of cloisters and courtyards in both university architecture and Mediterranean design. Yago Vaillo Usón, a partner at the studio, explained, 'The project proposal aims to follow the tradition, deeply rooted in our architecture, based on a system of aggregating volumes around courtyards.'
The Faculty of Tourism is divided into three main volumes, strategically positioned according to the site's topography, allowing for a parking level below ground. Each volume is tailored to a specific function, with classrooms, departmental offices, and an auditorium, library, and cafeteria occupying distinct spaces.
The design incorporates gravel-lined gardens with concrete planters and a paved courtyard with palm trees, creating a welcoming and green environment. The external concrete grid serves as a colonnade, shading the cloister-like corridors lined with full-height glazing. This grid not only provides shade but also adds a unique architectural element to the building.
At the heart of the faculty lies a central hall, envisioned as an internal courtyard, featuring a sawtooth, skylit roof that filters daylight through a concrete beam ceiling. This central space connects the three volumes, forming a flexible, open area suitable for events and exhibitions.
Surrounding the building, a series of landscaped and paved slopes, including a botanical garden, offers a picturesque view from the perimeter windows. This design extends the architectural theme, creating a harmonious and functional university campus.
Vaillo + Irigaray Architects' work on the Faculty of Tourism showcases their ability to blend traditional architectural elements with modern design, resulting in a visually appealing and functional educational facility.
