Ulf Mejergren Architects (UMA) have revealed their latest project, an art school in Tulum, Mexico, that has a facade system made by recycled plastic bottles found in the nearby ocean. Take a look at the complete story after the jump.
Background
Mexico generates half a million tons of plastic waste that ends up in the ocean each year. Staggering numbers that urgently needs to be addressed. With this building we want to set a precedent on what can be done with recycled plastic bottles, an action that hopefully could inspire other people and communities.
A simple and economic wall system will make this possible; painted bottles in a color gradient pierced through bent rebar.
The expressive waves are meant to rise curiosity and offer an inspiring environment for the kids to thrive in, but it is also a reminder of where these bottles where taken from.
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The System
The system is made out of plastic bottles that are pierced through rebar that are erected in a concrete trench, looking almost like a tall fence at its first stage.
Plastic bottles with drilled holes in the bottom are pierced on each rebar, and then the rebar are bent into a desired position, forming waves.
Each reinforced unit can accommodate an extra layer of bottles on each side, closing the wave.
The bottles close to the ground are filled with cement or sand to ensure a stability and each rebar is also attached to a wall or a slab in mid-air
The bottles are painted in a gradient of blue-cyan-white.
The waves are also more than a great backdrop, they are also giving shelter from rain and the sun, and at some places they can also be used for seating and tables.
Images are courtesy of Ulf Mejergren Architects (UMA)
Find more projects by Ulf Mejergren Architects (UMA): www.u-m-a.se
