Beneath these concrete and glass panels lies a world of botanical wonder. This is the Estufa Fría of Parque Juan Carlos I. It is no ordinary greenhouse. Imagine a structure that creates its own climate without consuming energy. That’s the magic of the Estufa Fría.
Built in 1996, the Estufa Fría spans 4,000 square meters. Its height reaches 12 meters. Architects José L. Esteban Penelas and Emilio Esteras Martín designed this modern marvel. They used concrete and glass to construct this unique space.
But what exactly is an Estufa Fría? It is a semi-closed structure. It uses passive heating systems to create a microclimate inside. Thanks to bioconstruction and sustainable architecture, the Estufa Fría regulates its temperature naturally. The building’s orientation and glass panels play a crucial role. A slight underground design also helps. This clever design eliminates the need for energy consumption. It’s essentially a modern and sustainable greenhouse.
To combat Madrid’s scorching summer sun, the Estufa Fría has enormous sunshades. These shades conserve heat and humidity. They feature concrete slats angled to block the vertical summer sun. However, they allow the oblique winter sun to penetrate.
Inside the Estufa Fría, you will discover twelve distinct spaces. A Japanese garden offers a serene escape. It incorporates Zen-Buddhist elements. You’ll find ponds, stones, gravel, and bamboo. Maples and flowering shrubs add to the tranquil scene.
The Estufa Fría’s pond teems with aquatic plants including papyrus. Bamboo varieties thrive in isolated planters. You can see giant, yellow, black, and hanging bamboo.
Ascend to the upper part of the greenhouse via a walkway. Here lies the succulent zone. In the central area, you will see cycads and palms. Acid-loving plants also share this central space. Camelias, rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, and heathers flourish in the acidic soil.
Citrus trees grow on a bed of sand. A representation of a riverside forest showcases this biotype typical of river courses. The shadiest area houses ferns. Outside, a garden displays native Mediterranean plants. Climbing plants adorn the walls and columns.
In 2008, a botanical collection of exotic plants was established. It features 220 species and varieties. This created a new educational botanical path within the park.
The Estufa Fría remains a hidden gem. Many Madrid residents are unaware of its existence. This fascinating space offers a unique blend of architecture and nature. It provides a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. So next time you are in Parque Juan Carlos I, explore the Estufa Fría.