June 2, 2009
Architect: Javier Saenz de Oiza
Date: 1979-1981
Location: Madrid, Spain
Torre BBVA is part of the group of buildings built in the 1970s. The entire building is supported on a central core with the floors cantilevering out. Although the building was built before the green movement this building employs the use of sun shades to help keep it cool which give the building its unique look.
The tower has one of the most interesting interactions with the ground. Rather than just hitting the ground like most skyscrapers it opens up at ground level.
We were allowed to take pictures while in one of the meeting rooms where the structure is visible. The large concrete outriggers that bring the exterior weight to the core can be seen.
Tags: Javier Saenz de Oiza, Madrid, Skyscraper