Rua Coberta

Santa Casa de Misericórdia de Porto Alegre stands as a pivotal institution overseeing a complex of diverse hospital buildings, intricately laid out to form an internal thoroughfare named 'Rua Coberta.' In light of the existing structural configuration, a contiguous linkage between these buildings was notably absent. Responding to the client's vision, the aspiration was to introduce a unifying roof, gracefully spanning across the edifices and defining an innovative outdoor space of iconic stature.

This architectural feat, aptly named 'Rua Coberta,' extends expansively over the hospital complex's courtyard and comprises an impressive assembly of 1647 glass panels. The structure, characterized by its sleek and unrestrained design, features a triangular steel grid enveloped by a glass cover. This artistic framework seamlessly connects three distinct interior zones, culminating at the main entrance of the hospital complex. Beyond its utilitarian function of providing shelter, the roof transforms the area into a dynamic, verdant outdoor haven, fostering a welcoming environment for relaxation and social activities among the hospital's users. The design's free-flowing contours elegantly assimilate with the natural surroundings.

At the core of the structural plan are 14 strategically positioned support points, carefully calibrated through an iterative process that considered the existing buildings and subterranean facilities. Horizontal loads find primary support from the designated points of the impluvium and an ingeniously designed M-shaped bracing.

Furthermore, a set of V-shaped columns undertakes the responsibility of handling minor horizontal loads, whereas the vertical columns dutifully transmit vertical loads to their base points. The grid shell itself is a marvel, constructed from a triangular steel grid with tubular profiles. These profiles are seamlessly connected to a welded node through six steel plates and a robust conical tube. The slender supports also boast tubular profiles, contributing to the overall structural finesse.