Bodies of water are good for us. Anyone who imagines looking at the sea, the horizon, and just observing its movements, its fluidity, manages to relax and let go. The textures of bodies of water are soothing to the mind, body, eyes, and soul. It can be the sea, a river, a lake, pools or a canal. These spaces are very beneficial for our health and that is why we included them in our design, in and around the El Canal project.

Benefits of Bodies of Water

Living in an environment surrounded by man-made lakes, rivers, and green spaces offers a number of tangible and intangible advantages. First, the presence of bodies of water improves air and water quality. They act as natural filters and reduce air pollution. These environments promote an active and healthy lifestyle. They provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, running, biking or just relaxing by the water.

Likewise, the presence of bodies of water can have positive effects on the mental and emotional health of residents. Being in a calm and serene environment promotes relaxation and psychological well-being.

Inside the El Canal Condominium we have the artificial lake in front of the Lake Towers, the Canal that borders the amenities and the pool area, and at the end of the property there is a river even a waterfall. Additionally, pools work and have the same visual and psychological effect as bodies of water but with the difference that they can also be used for swimming.

History & Meaning

From ancient empires to contemporary civilizations, bodies of water have been symbols of life, fertility, and prosperity. The first cities sprang up along rivers and lakes, harnessing their resources for agricultural development, trade, and transportation. In addition, many cultures have ascribed spiritual and symbolic meanings to bodies of water. They are considered sources of purification, renewal, and connection with the divine.

In the Canal, the first structure or construction that existed before we started the project was the canal itself. It was a large batch of old sugar cane, and a canal that served as part of an irrigation system in the times of 'La Argentina' to feed the coffee and sugar plantations. This series of canals and connections of bodies of water border all the properties that were part of this collective. The only concrete on our lot was a small square of old cement that diverts one part of the canal and gives continuity to another.

Today, the Canal is bordered by a 1.2-kilometer trail where families and residents walk in the mornings or afternoons. We plant thousands of plants, trees and flowers to make it look pretty, bring hummingbirds and butterflies closer, and therefore the experience of walking the canal is more immersive.

Importance in urban projects

In the context of urban projects such as Condominio El Canal, the inclusion of bodies of water is not simply a matter of aesthetics. It's a strategic decision that comes with numerous benefits. These projects not only create spaces of natural beauty, but also improve the quality of life of residents and contribute to the sustainable development of the environment.

These spaces act as natural habitats for local fauna and flora, promoting biodiversity and protecting aquatic ecosystems. In addition, water bodies can help mitigate the effects of climate change by acting as carbon sinks and local climate regulators.

Is there a river and a waterfall in the project?

Yes. At the end of the last slope is the Agualote River, access to which is available to all residents. It's a downhill hike from the clubhouse about 10 minutes and then uphill. It's my favorite and most contemplative part of the whole project. You are surrounded by espaveles that are more than 100 years old and more than 20 meters tall. In this cathedral of green, the river flows very calmly. Between stones, it carries the leaves, the waste, and makes a very soft and soothing noise for the condominiums of the K towers (yes, all the apartments hear the beautiful sound of the river, both in the dry and rainy season).

From this upstream access there is a waterfall. The time we visited we had to climb and swim a bit, but getting to the posa was magical. We hope to soon build ways that you can visit this beautiful point and very special body of water.