ROCHAVERA PLAZA

This project is a development with Tishman Speyer Properties and Aflalo Gasperini Architects located adjacent to the Pinheiros River in Sao Paulo. The first phase of this project was completed in 2011 and the second phase is nearly complete. Four speculative office towers are built over a subterranean parking structure which covers the entire site. Automobiles enter the heart of the project with drop-offs that face the interior courtyard. Our task was to elegantly separate the pedestrians from the cars and create outdoor spaces that feel safe and inviting.

We made two big landscape moves: one is a freeform sweep of tall river trees that celebrate the proximity of the adjacent river and ‘flow’ through the entire site. These trees are juxtaposed pedestrian-scaled trees that are arranged in an orderly fashion related to the structural grids of the towers. Within the central space of the plaza we created a lowered garden that is surrounded by lush native planting and sensuous topography that effectively removes cars from view. Pedestrians reach this garden through ramps that meander around the space. We worked with local growers to find the plant materials, all of which are planted over structure. It was created while at Pamela Burton and Company as Director of Design.

Recognition
Honor Award
American Society of Landscape Architects, Southern California Chapter 2010

Location
São Paulo, Brazil

Owner
Tishman Speyer Properties