HAND-CAST IN SOLID CONCRETE WITH CARE BY SPACEPLAY
Jenaro Valverde Marín Building – Miniature Concrete Model
Jenaro Valverde Marín Building – Miniature Concrete Model
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Model 048_Jenaro Valverde Marín Building – Miniature Concrete Model
Hand-cast in fine concrete. Shaped by memory.
Some buildings seem to hold the spirit of a nation’s modern era. The Jenaro Valverde Marín Building in San José, completed in 1976, is one of Costa Rica’s most important Brutalist landmarks. Designed for the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, its bold concrete frame, deep recesses, and monumental massing reflect both the optimism and the strength of post-war architecture in Central America.
This model focuses on its structural rhythm. The repeating bays, the sculptural depth of the façades, and the commanding outline were carefully reduced into miniature scale. I wanted the cast to preserve the sense of solidity and presence that defines the real building.
A small cast of Costa Rica’s Brutalist monument to civic life.
Features
• Solid cast concrete, individually hand-poured
• 8cm high, 5.5cm wide, 4cm deep (approx)
• Laser-etched cork base with building name
• Comes gift-boxed for the perfect concrete gift
• Designed, modelled, and finished in the UK
Made for those who know it as part of San José’s skyline, studied its design, or admire Brutalism beyond Europe and North America. This model is a keepsake of a building that represents both national progress and architectural ambition.
15% off when you order two or more models
EU customers: please order via my Etsy shop due to customs regulations
Building Information
Location: San José, Costa Rica
Architect: Alberto Linner Díaz (Costa Rican Social Security Fund)
Completed: 1976
Status: Still in use, institutional offices
Brief Overview:
The Jenaro Valverde Marín Building, designed for the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, is one of the most significant Brutalist works in Central America. With its exposed concrete construction, geometric façades, and powerful civic presence, it remains a landmark of San José’s skyline and a celebrated example of Latin American modernism.
Please note:
ALL EU ORDERS processed through our Etsy Store HERE
My concrete sculptures are individually hand cast in solid concrete. This means that each piece will have distinctive markings and minor blemishes due to air bubbles in the concrete. This is a natural part of the material and will mean that no two pieces are ever exactly the same.
Shipping:
I aim to make and ship your artwork within 30 days. If you require your order by a specific date before this please let me know.
Express shipping options at checkout for additional costs
Materials
Materials
My concete models are all made using a fine grain quickset cement with a polymer additive. This gives a good balance between strength and detail casting. However concrete is a brittle material so the models are delicate and can break with impact.
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Free standard shipping on all UK orders.
We aim to ship within 30 days but priority shipping can be purchased if you require faster delivery.
You can cancel or return you order at any time. Once I receive the product back undamaged you will receive a full refund (excluding postage).
I do not refund damaged parcels. If your order arrives damaged please contact me immediately to arrange for a replacement.
Care Instructions
Care Instructions
Concrete is a brittle material so these models are delicate objects. They can be chipped or cracked easily and need to be protected from knocks or falls.
My concrete mix is also not waterproof so you should protected your model from damp and moisture.
Extreme changes in temperature will cause expansion and contraction inside the concrete model potentially leading to cracks forming. Keep your model out of direct sunlight and away from heating systems.
