Images of Your 3 Design Proposals
Side-By-Side Comparisons of Your Analysis Results
The Sun Hours analysis
June — warmest
December — coldest
The Rapid Wind analysis could not be compared side-by-side with the Forma “Compare” tool, but I compared screenshots on a separate document:
Your Recommendation for the “Best” Design Option
After comparing the analysis results of all three massing proposals, I have chosen to move forward with the “Diamond Flow” as the most effective option for sustainability, energy efficiency, and user experience. This design, which integrates the building into the sloped landscape with a terraced green roof and partially underground mass, creates a seamless connection to the surrounding environment while addressing passive environmental strategies.
Key Findings from Analysis Results:
The Sun Hours Analysis revealed that this design benefits from significant sunlight, particularly on its flatter surfaces. This provides an opportunity for natural daylighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting and improving energy efficiency during colder months. However, the strong sunlight in the summer could lead to overheating. To mitigate this, I will adjust the building's orientation to optimize passive cooling while still maximizing solar gain for daylighting and energy efficiency.
The Rapid Wind Analysis showed that the sloped, integrated form reduces wind tunneling effects compared to the other two proposals. The Floating Atrium, while effective in creating open public space beneath, resulted in more exposed wind patterns around the elevated structure, which could create discomfort for visitors. The Dynamic Stacked Exploration Hub, with its staggered masses, provided excellent cross-ventilation but introduced wind exposure due to its exposed and protruding volumes. The smooth, integrated slope of Diamond Flow maintains comfortable outdoor conditions while minimizing harsh wind zones, supporting natural ventilation.
Discussion of Tradeoffs
While the “Floating Atrium” provided open space at the ground level, it lacked the insulating benefits of embedding the mass into the earth. The “Dynamic Stacked Exploration Hub,” though innovative with its natural shading and terraces, posed challenges with wind flow and cooling requirements. Ultimately, Diamond Flow emerged as the best balance of natural insulation, user comfort, and energy efficiency.
Moving forward, I will refine the design by adjusting its orientation to optimize summer cooling performance while enhancing its connection to the landscape. This proposal not only supports the project's sustainability goals but also fosters an engaging, immersive experience for visitors by integrating architecture with the natural environment.
