Narnii Zam 976

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, 2019

Contextually-Inspired Urban Façade Design
In the striking redesign of an existing building, where a vibrant collage of red, gray, and black panels has turned an everyday urban structure into a dynamic canvas of modern art, we designed this façade to reflect the dynamic urban context in which it is situated. The building occupies a narrow strip of land, nestled between a railway and a bustling avenue that is often congested during rush hours. Drawing inspiration from the energy of its surroundings, we captured a late-evening image of the traffic jam and employed a process of sampling and pixelation. This approach allowed us to extract a distinctive pattern and a vibrant palette directly influenced by the urban scene.
Our design features two main intersecting sections that work in harmony. On one side, we have a static element rendered in deep black, with squared windows and fixed linear details that convey a sense of solidity and order. In contrast, the other section is dynamic and colourful, characterised by linear windows that introduce a feeling of movement and liveliness. The interplay between these two components creates a compelling linear architecture that serves as a striking response to the busy backdrop.
Despite the ambitious visual impact, we were mindful of budget constraints. By utilising simple corrugated metal panels - the type typically found in industrial settings - we were able to achieve a high-design outcome without compromising on cost efficiency.
This strategic material choice has transformed the building into a landmark, a vibrant accent that adds a burst of colour on an otherwise grey and traffic-laden avenue.
We take pride in the fact that our design not only reinterprets standard industrial materials but also offers an innovative solution that elevates the urban fabric in a practical, cost-effective manner.