Key / Essential / Unique Design Features that you explored in your project:
My essential design goals include reduced carbon footprint, resource circularity, and modularity and multi-functionality. I also pursued a concept throughout the project- creating a museum space that encourages reflection and connection with the natural world. I believe we can reconnect with nature and move away from our extractive, exploitative ways by looking to indigenous practices. My space aims to foster a new understanding of native people and how they were once one with the land.
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Modularity / Multi-functionality
- Resource circularity
I wanted my building to be net-zero energy and low in embodied carbon. On the energy/operational side, I ensured the building envelope was tight and thermally resistant. This allowed me to reach an impressive EUI of roughly 43kBtu/sqft/yr. This feat was also achieved through adding solar PV generation and careful planning of curtain wall window spaces. Only about 30-40% of my south side is windows. I wanted each level to have ample light but not too much, given most of the building’s energy would be dedicated to cooling in the summer months. The addition of unique timber shading elements seen around the central core staircase and around the level 1 outdoor space. I was also able to avoid using complex, heavier steel beams and columns in the structure, and relied on cement alternatives to reduce the total embodied carbon.
By storing all the building’s functions in the core, I reduce the energy dedicated to moving air and fluids. Also, each level has its own HVAC zone/handler which allows for spacial optimization and operational efficiency. Each floor also has a green space/roof which will help to cool much of the building passively.
Overall, I wanted there to be a dynamic interaction of light, wind, indoor/outdoor space, and functionality. I achieved this by making highly repetitive levels that spiral upwards around the central core. Because of this spiral, each space has a unique combination of light and surrounding views, adding to the immersive experience and dynamic nature of the exhibits which will be showcased. I wanted visitors to feel lost in my museum, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor space, exhibition and education space. I want to teach people that spaces can be highly utilized and should be designed with that in mind.
Because each floor plan is essentially a repeat of the prior with a 90 degree rotation, most of the HVAC, plumbing, and electric elements were copied and replicated. In construction, this repetition will help to lower costs and duration, and reduce maintenance costs during operation. Even the steal structure was created using only 1 column size and 2 beam sizes, making replacement and eventual recycling of components much more feasible.
Because my project is inspired by native peoples of the New York area, I wanted to emphasize the need for regenerative and replenishing practices. My building stores rainwater captured in the green roofs and recycles grey water. The timber used in the design will be sourced locally, and the concrete will be de-carbonized (as mush as possible) by using calcium carbonate-filled oyster shells as cementious enhancement. The Lenape Tribe, who’s land was once Manhattan Island, is remembered for their reliance on the sea and various crustaceans for food, tools, and materials. This was my attempt to pay tribute to their practice of resource circularity.
Also, because the structural layout is so simple, this allows for adaptability to other uses in the future. The building itself can be easily recycled so that’s its lifetime extended.
Your Big Successes -- what worked very well and what features you're most proud to share as examples to inspire others:
I’m happy with how my facade turned out. I think the mix of wood and concrete elements allows the building to sit well in the NYC project site, but also highlights the use of more “natural” local materials.
At first, I thought the building concept of a spiral across six floors would be too much for my non-existent revit skills, but I’m really happy I pursued it. The space is incredibly dynamic and will provide unique interactive opportunities with the art showcased. While I could have gone with a more simple design (like that of the Lenape Tribe dwellings), I think my space will captivate visitors and draw people in, regardless of their interest in indigenous art/practices.
The modularity of the design elements allowed for quicker assembly of building systems across floors, giving me more time to focus on the facade. I’m also so glad I left enough space in the central core on each floor to house the utilities. I didn’t have to go back and rework my floor plans or structure for this reason. It also made HVAC, plumbing, and lighting easier.
Your Big Challenges -- what aspects of the project created the biggest challenges and what would you do differently (in hindsight) to avoid or overcome these challenges.
- Looking back, I wouldn’t do the same sprial design.. I think it used a lot more material than needed. SOOOO I would spend more time planning the form to find a better balance in material usage, simplicity, but also something captivating enough to draw visitors inside.
- I would also spend more time on the 220A modules to help me polish my design and produce better renderings. A lot of my structural elements were shown in the floors (unintentionally) and I didnt know how to smooth out corners/edges to make the envelope seem more seamless.
- In general, revit was the big challenge for me. I would love to retake the course now that I have a better understanding of the tool and its capabilities.
Lessons Learned -- what sage words of advice would you share with other students who are embarking on a similar project.
- Watch the modules (220A + B), they likely hold the answers you seek
- Don’t aim for perfection or you’ll never finish
- Simplicity should be a design goal.
- Creating a concept around your space makes it more fun to work on!
