Yaku: Sustainable Design in Rainwater Management
Modular urban furniture in Quito that returns rainwater to natural cycle
1Project Purpose
The Yaku project is a modular urban furniture installed in Isla Tortuga Park, Quito, Ecuador. Meaning 'water' in Kichwa language, Yaku mimics the natural water cycle by capturing rainwater. Covering 27 square meters, the structure offers an aesthetic and functional solution to urban water management issues. Built using Plastigama's products, the project was supported by the Inter-American Development Bank's Cities LAB initiative.
2Design Team and Process
Developed by El Sindicato Arquitectura team led by Xavier Duque, María Reinoso and Nicolás Viteri. Design team included Emilio Araujo, Diana Padilla, Eduardo Espinosa and Pablo Hidalgo. With technical contributions from Pedro Ospina, the project collaborated with Quito's Secretariat of Habitat and Territorial Planning (SHOT). It showcases a pioneering approach combining urban infrastructure with sustainable design.
3Technical Specifications
Yaku module was constructed using steel and stone materials. Its adaptable design allows installation on any surface, performing rainwater capture, storage and ground infiltration functions. The system returns urban rainwater lost through impervious surfaces back to natural cycle. Documented by Andrés Villota's photographs, the project was completed in 2024.
4Environmental Impacts
Traditional urbanization loses rainwater to sewer systems. Yaku module addresses this issue by contributing to groundwater recharge. The system also supports urban biodiversity and helps mitigate climate change effects. An important step for water conservation in Quito's high-altitude geography. The design integrates local identity with modern technology.
5Community Benefits
The project isn't just a technical solution but also encourages social interaction in public spaces. Yaku aims to raise awareness about water's relationship with cities. While creating a meeting point for park visitors, it also serves as a platform for sustainability education. The design draws inspiration from Kichwa culture.
6Scalability Potential
Yaku's modular design offers flexibility for adaptation to various urban environments. Its small-scale implementation could inspire similar projects in other Latin American cities. Provides a cost-effective solution especially for developing cities facing rainwater management challenges.
7Architectural Approach
El Sindicato Arquitectura adopted a minimal and functional design language for the project. The approach balances structural integrity with aesthetic considerations. Such sustainability-focused designs in public spaces are gaining importance in modern urban architecture. The project lies at the intersection of architecture and environmental engineering.
8Future Implications
The Yaku project has potential to set new standards in urban water management design. If successful, similar systems could expand to other areas of Quito and different cities. Such innovative solutions at urban scale will become increasingly important in climate crisis mitigation. The project establishes a model for sustainable urbanization.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Yaku: Yağmur Suyu Yönetiminde Sürdürülebilir Tasarım