Kengo Kuma’s Qapital Tower Brings Nature to Quito’s Skyline

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Summary

  • Qapital Tower marks Kengo Kuma’s first Ecuador project, a 32‑story mixed‑use landmark set to be completed in 2029
  • Inspired by Andes geology, its façade features carved balconies with greenery and floor‑to‑ceiling windows

Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and developed with Uribe Schwarzkopf, the Qapital Tower is Kuma’s debut project in Ecuador. The 32-story building, which will stand 125.8 meters tall, is a mixed-use space and is expected to be finished in 2029.

The tower’s beautiful design comes from architect Kengo Kuma’s belief in blending buildings with the natural world, and is directly inspired by the landscape of the Andes Mountains. Its exterior is strikingly textured, with large windows and balconies that look carved and are filled with plants – designed to resemble the rocky, plant-filled openings found in volcanic stone. Kuma explains that the design shares an appreciation for natural materials seen in both traditional Japanese and Ecuadorian pottery, bringing a sense of nature and texture to the city center.

Qapital features 509 small studio apartments, ranging in size from 21 to 36.15 square meters, as well as three shops on the ground floor. Designed to meet the increasing demand for short-term rentals in Quito, it offers a versatile living option for both people looking to live there and those wanting to invest. Residents can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including a wellness center, gym, private movie theater, game room, pet grooming area, and a rooftop terrace. The rooftop also boasts a stunning swimming pool decorated with a unique mosaic created by Fornasetti and produced by Bisazza – their first project in South America.

This project continues Uribe Schwarzkopf’s work of partnering with globally celebrated architects in Ecuador, following previous collaborations with firms like Bjarke Ingels Group and Ateliers Jean Nouvel. For Kengo Kuma, the Qapital building showcases his commitment to blending natural elements with city design, connecting Japanese and Ecuadorian styles. With over 93% of the apartments sold before construction even began, and prices starting at $69,990 USD, Qapital is set to become a significant landmark in Quito, representing the city’s growing and modern design scene.

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2026-05-05 12:56