New European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC) Headquarters in Seville (ES)

The architecture of the New Joint Research Centre in Seville is based on creating a delightful and efficient 21st century workplace in a sustainable and optimistic way. The result is a recognizable building which acts as an example of humane, European approach to sustainability and the future of work. The building is located on the western edge of the site and built up to the maximum height limit of 25 meters above ground. The rest of the site is built as a high‐quality pocket park, which will act as a semi‐public outdoor space and an oasis of natural cooling and shade during the hot summer months. The New JRC employees will be able to enjoy the functional park during their lunch and coffee breaks, as well as taking calls and video conferences while wandering outside or sitting on specially designed outdoor furniture. Casual meetings and interactions can often be arranged in the park, utilizing the beautiful location, river views, and Seville’s beautiful climate. The competition entry focuses on presenting the current construction phase of New Joint Research Centre. Further phases and other buildings can be placed in the park in multiple different ways, depending on the precise programming and functional requirements of the future projects.

The building is a striking simple mass of heavy timber structures and thick timber wall elements, with carefully sized windows set deep into the walls. The overall shape is a simple rectangle which is twisted to combine the two main grid directions defined by the Guadalquivir River. The resulting dramatic form is optimized to provide shade to the facades most exposed to sunlight, and to provide comfortable shaded outdoor spaces next to the building. The ground floor contains the entrance and security functions, the main restaurant and cafeteria spaces, and an indoor garden growing vertically to the atrium space above. The ground floor is taller than the office floors above, providing taller spaces and flexibility for ventilation installations for the rooms with large occupation numbers. The main entrance is to the west, reached by bridges which cover the bowl‐like pocket park. There is also a staff / security clearance personnel entrance to the east, facing the public transport links on that side of the building.