Parada Dorada is a new waystation program for Colombia generating places of crossing, culture, and exchange. The goal of this proposal is to use urban design as a way to lessen spatial and economic inequalities by translating the concept of a rest-stop into a waystation program that fosters the different cultures that exist in the Colombian tapestry, creates a territorial autonomy, and encourages regenerative and restorative narratives.

This project aims to redefine. From negative conditions of occupations, extraction dating back to stories about El Dorado, and decades of national conflict. Expanding into a post-war, post-extractive conceptions, green infrastructure, and an autonomous architecture. Amplifying the focus on urban design toward the rural environment, addressing key socio ecological challenges they continue to face on a day to day basis.

The rest stop, a spatial intervention originated as a result of different aspects of extraction. Moments where the vernacular is built by local people with a goal to make a living by selling their agricultural goods, foods, services etc. Often carrying an informal humble vernacular with colorful accents and with short and long term built aspects. Isolated spatial interventions with no contextual connection.

What if these spaces became a force that creates a more inter-Hinterland-like regional economy, and became spaces with more agency to connect to nature, wild rivers, and culture throughout the national highway system?