Responsive Architecture: A way to make buildings dynamic.
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The primary goal of this thesis is; “to develop a
symbiotic relationship between technology, architecture and nature in
an attempt to optimize functionality, stability and energy use of built
spaces.” The intention is to develop a system of built mass
that observes the internal and external environment and changes form to
suit any situation thus acting as a primary means of controlling indoor
environment. “Gaia: A living lab” is a research
center for studying response of such systems to environment and help
find possible solutions for future. {Gaia: “spirit of
earth”}
What if our shelters could develop an extra coat in winter like the mink, or regulate the interior insulation by trapping minute bubbles in its skin? What if architects could design dynamic systems rather than static buildings that modify their internal and external forms in response to changes in their environment? The question is not whether it is possible, but how is it possible? This thesis only lays out a structure that leads us to a possible answer. The answer is "Responsive Architecture", a new state of art technology that makes possible dynamic structures. This thesis uses this new technology to demonstrate how our architecture can shift from being static to dynamic.
The design for this project is primarily influenced by the structure of lichen species that survives in this region. Lichen depends on a parent plant for water and energy from photosynthesis. In return it provides nutrients for the parent plant's survival. Thus the two interdepend on each other in a healthy environment. Similarly, this project has a two layer roof system. The sloped elevated part of the roof functions like the parent plant. It supports the secondary flat roof system and majority of design loads. Secondary flat roof structure provides lateral stability to the structure. There is a third system of existing structural grid that supports the services of the building.
This project attempts to support the development of new responsive technologies, educate the society about its benefits and contibute to the local community by providing responsive public spaces.
