Benoy’s 56,400ha masterplan is an ambitious approach to reinvent the historic city of Cali and stimulate different areas of the economy, while leaving space for future urban evolution. Representing the next generation of urban design, the transit-oriented masterplan is made up of six main districts. These zones will be able to stand on their own yet be cohesively connected in terms of transport, design and personality. Ultimately, the city will offer a new comprehensive mix, ranging from education to entertainment, leisure to luxury.
Celebrating Cali heritage
The brief demanded the strengthening of the established ‘Power Regions’; these six regions have been identified as key zones for development. At the heart of the city will sit the Global Centre. Home to fine examples of Colonial, Neocolonial, Republican, Art Deco, Modernist Architecture and landscaped public realm, the area will be recognised as a ‘Celebration of Cali Heritage’.
A large, green park akin to Central Park in New York City or Green Park in London will be the focal point; resonating with the buzz of the local museums and galleries, shops and restaurants, it will be the perfect venue for concerts and exhibitions. Abandoned, former factories will be reimagined as contemporary residences and flexible, modern workspaces. Coherent strategies for the Business and Education Zones will combine to provide future generations of Cali as well as all of Colombia with a new legacy of wealth, opportunity and knowledge.
The Fashion District was once the highlight of the city but its glamour has somewhat faded in recent years. The intention is to rejuvenate this area with a lively mix of high street and high-end retail. Three existing programmes of activity – Health, Hospitality and Transportation – will be incorporated into the plans, providing a firm foundation for the evolution of this exciting city.
Natural assets
Grounded in contemporary urban design principles, the masterplan draws on the most treasured aspects of Cali’s culture and natural beauty and strives to preserve the old whilst promoting the new. Inspired by the famous, late afternoon breeze that blows down from the mountains, bringing with it fresh air and a sense of vitality, Benoy’s designs celebrate this natural phenomenon that has become part of daily city life. This sense of energy has been incorporated within the masterplan and the theme of ‘Refresh, renew, restore’ is evident throughout Benoy’s ideas. Source by Benoy.
Location: Cali City, Colombia
Architect: Benoy
Developer: Alcaldía de Santiago de Cali, Alianza para la Renovación Urbana de Cali, Clúster de la Construcción Pacífico, EMRU
Masterplanner: Benoy
Size: 56,400ha
Year: 2016
Images: Courtesy of Benoy