Republica Building
Description
República Building is a residential project of balanced densification, conceived from adaptive reuse as a niche for real estate development focused on short-term rental. Located in Providencia, Santiago, in the central Huelén neighborhood, the building features 20 residential units and 2 commercial spaces, offering a variety of typologies ranging from studios to simple units, with areas between 30 and 73 square meters.
The design of Huelén Building is based on a careful morphological study that adapts to the pre-existing spaces and structural axes, allowing for maximum densification of the building without losing its historical essence. This approach presents an additional challenge for adaptive reuse projects and change of use.
Constructed in reinforced concrete and strengthened with metallic elements, the project successfully overcame the challenges of short-term profitability, achieving an average occupancy rate of over 80% even during low seasons. The facade work focused on maintaining existing openings and historical details while incorporating contemporary elements such as metallic frames, integrated lighting, and pivoting awnings. This adds dynamism to the facade and allows for solar and privacy control, while maintaining homogeneity through a unique color that highlights the diverse textures and architectural styles.
As an urban contribution, Huelén Building stands out for its conservation and revaluation, enriching the urban heritage by adding this factor as added value toward economic profitability. This project serves as a benchmark for adaptive reuse in Providencia, establishing new standards within a complex and traditional real estate context, designed for those who value innovation, history, heritage, architecture, and the well-being of urban metabolism.
location: Calle Huelén 164, Providencia, RM, Chile
year: 2021
use: Residential (densification + adaptive reuse)
area: 1,040 sqm
net budget: USD 641,000
construction system: reinforced concrete + steel reinforcements
client: BR Capital
team: ANONIMA & partners + MJAA