CIAAM ('Centro Integral de Ayuda y Apoyo a la Mujer') is an Integrated Help and Support Center for Women, located in the urban center of Río Piedras, Puerto Rico.  The concept of the design is focused on creating a supportive, private and nurturing environment through nature for women that attend the center.  This led to a design that closes itself from the street with a vertical brise soleil that provides privacy while allowing sun light to filter through.  As part of the facade, green walls were incorporated as a prominent design element that brings nature to the urban center, as well as its healing properties.  In the interior space, the concept of nature is maintained using an interior garden that is present through out all levels of the center.

 

 

Design: Marissa Peral, Diana Esquivel, Beatriz Hernández.
Year: 2014