Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
This project was designed with a narrative of connecting the valley with the outside world. The unique character of the project melds with the surrounding context while creating a visual beacon. The form of the proposed building is a bent bar that mimics the topography of the site. It torques to the contours, embeds into the landscape, and makes a gesture of connection: a connection between the abandoned hospital and the new clinic that links the region through the Nyaya organization. This simple parti aids toward a design solution regarding the immediate site. It allows the building to act as a plow and protector for site drainage and potential mudslides. This is achieved physically by a continuous reinforced concrete wall on the south facade that is strengthened by a four meter structural rhythm.

The building’s program is proposed with a public community center on the first floor and private residence on the second. The two floors are connected by a two story, open volume that captures direct sunlight and allows for proper ventilation. This core, or light well, connects programmed spaces on each floor through sequential transitions from public space to pvivate space along daylit corridors.

To plan for future programmatic needs, adaptability and flexibility were directly addressed. Concrete is proposed as the primary structural material, allowing for moveable partitions and multiple layout configurations. [Building with concrete allows the regional community to learn a new skill. By using tradesmen and local engineers, the construction process can be taught. This empowers the region with a new trade that can potentially strengthen the local economy.] Secondly, along circulation corridors, a removable, wood track is integrated to create flexibility in repairing, moving, and accessing the building’s utilities.

The facades of the exterior were designed toward security. Operable panels were created for each opening to provide light and ventilation during the day and aid in security at night. One unique feature is the large slat panel on the first floor. These panels span from floor to ceiling, are lowered by hand winches from the interior, and can be raised up to protect the corrugated plastic at night.

Corrugated plastic was chosen as the main glazing/facade material for many reasons. First, it can be stacked in large quantities and easily transported to the site. Furthermore, it is very durable and can be readily replaced. It allows the maximum amount of northern sunlight to enter the building while creating a lantern to illuminate the valley sky.

The roof of the project was sloped to the south to allow ample daylight for solar panels. This slight pitch also allows water to drain to a central location on the southern elevation where it is then collected into an elevated storage tank.

This proposal is intended to link the region to new technology through the Nyaya organization. By confronting issues of adaptability, sustainability, durability, and security, this building will serve the community well into the future.