Earthquake damaged tower is given robust rebuild

“Very creative project bringing an unsafe, abandoned building back to life,” Andrew Best, Judge.

06 October 2023 2022 Tall Buildings

Project: Glorieta Cibeles Tower

Award: Tall Buildings, Silver, 2022

Location: Mexico City, Mexico

Architect: CIMET Arquitectos

Client: Corporativo 001 Villa Madrid

This 1970s tower had been abandoned and deemed unsafe after it was badly damaged in a series of earthquakes. Its extensive renovation has seen the 18-story structure completely remodelled to make it much more resilient to future quakes.
Fixing the tower’s 60 cm tilt towards the east required careful handling. By excavating tunnels underneath, it was possible to tamper the piles and ballast the tower. Once the tower was vertical again, it was reattached to the existing foundation by the addition of 33 new pilings. Above ground, the shape was regularized to avoid frame distortions during earthquakes and the existing structure was reinforced with steel bracing and concrete rejuvenating epoxy injections. Finally, four structural dampers were incorporated at each floor, with the potential to reduce earthquake strength by up to 60%.
The core was also redesigned and relocated, cantilevered to its eastern side in order to create open plan interiors with panoramic views and plenty of natural light. Larger spacious elevators and a sculptural staircase create a more comfortable and accessible interior.

Design highlights

The tower’s glass façade incorporates highly efficient double glazing and allows it to blend in with its surroundings, while the new rooftop outdoor space features a garden with a glass pavilion in the middle. The double-height lobby has reflective ceilings and marble walls and a winding staircase painted gold.