Nova Natura - SmartCities Thesis Studio - Fall 2018

N OVA NAT U R A A n ex pl o r a t io n in t o S m a rtCit ie s an d t h e fu tu re o f En v iro n menta l Stewa rship

Breanna Sheeler Prof. Edgar Stach D9 - fall 2018

THESIS STATEMENT

This semester offered unparralled opportunities to explore cutting edge trends in urban planning and high rise design. Research into the framework of SmartCity led to revoluntiary conclusions regarding the principles of future master planning for Philadelphia. Identification of key revitalization zones led to the creation of a new public park and green artery spanning center city.

Analysis of natural forms and systems led to the development of evolutionary biomimicry within architecture. Identification of an imperative program led to unique publicprivate partnerships with civic engagement.

Finally, extrapolation of experimental technologies germinates a new proposal for a performative facade.

Ultimately, the Design 9 SmartCity studio, culminated in a compelling proposal for a new beacon of environmental stewardship for the future of Philadelphia.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SmartCities the framework the city the district the site Nova Natura the building the design the presentation the reflection

SMARTCITIES

T HE F RA ME W O R K s m ar t ci t ie s a n d t h e p r in c ip le s o f u rb an p lan n in g

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The intention of applying SmartCity concepts to this design project was grounded in a single key notion. A notion that this trend in urban planning is not a moment, but a movement with lasting repurcussions. SmartCity was both a concept to be dissected and a mindset to be embraced.

But to do so took extensive research into it’s many facets and comprehension in the manner in which they intersect. These instances of overlap have been identified as distinct opportunities for efficient networks and installations with benefits tenfold. And indeed these networks of SmartCity systems may be considered and implemented at a multitude of scales, from the macro of city-wide to the micro of personal devices.

In the end, these concepts became the inspiration for design and the foundation on which new architecture may be built.

SMART CITY PARADIGMS

SMART INFRASTRUCTURE

Program

Construction

Infrastructure

Building & Space

Material

Performance

Communal Spaces

Affordable Housing

Adaptive Furniture and Space Dividers

Public Education

Prefabrication

Modular

Panel System

Durability and Longevity

Self-healing Concrete

Thermoplastic Carbon Fiber Rods

Natural Lighting and Ventilation

Structural Integrity Monitoring

Dynamic Facades

Shared Office Space

3D Printing

Solar Chimneys

Aerogel Insulation

Smart-Sensor Energy Control

Temporary Housing

Adaptive Reuse

Local Sourcing

Photovoltaic Glazing

Walkable Commuities

Predictive Software

Cradle to Cradle

Kinetic Footfall

SMARTCITIES

T HE CITY a f ut ure f o r P h ila d e l p h ia

The city of Philadelphia in 2050 will be a new precedent in green urbanism.

Citizen-centric master planning ensures walkable communities, biophilic landscaping, and robust mass transit. Five keystone zones will lead future progress for Philadlephia.

PHILLY INFRASTRUCTURE

VACANT SITES ELIGIBLE REBUILD SITES HISTORIC DISTRICTS RECREATION CENTERS YOUTH CENTERS COUNSELING CENTERS LIBRARIES FREE LIBRARIES COMMUNITY GARDENS FREE MEAL PROGRAMS FARMERS MARKETS COMMUNITY SHELTERS HOMELESS SHELTERS WOMEN’S SHELTERS CHILDREN’S SHELTERS

KEY CITY ASPECTS

PHILADELPHIA 2050 PLAN

SMARTCITIES

T HE DIS T RI CT a par k f o r t h e p e o p le

The redevelopment plan of Schuylkill Yards focuses on connecting the two sides of the river in an attempt to revitalize this part of West Philadelphia. By creating a public park, essential natural infrastructure is brought to the city. This park will feature water retention, large growth trees and landscaping, and a series of pavilions with different public programs.

All new development is being constructed above the existing rail lines, with I76 to be relocated underground.

PRECEDENTS

M77 CORRIDOR cultural economics LEHIGH GAP NATURE CENTER brownfield revitalization LEHIGH RIVER MASTER PLAN heritage renessaince PARC GÃœELL garden cities

M77 CORRIDOR cultureal economics Architect/Developer : Jones Lang Lesalle & 360 Architecture Location : East Renfrewshire, Scotland Year : Master Planning begun 2011 Client : East Renfrewshire Council Program : commercial, recreational, and residential Thesis : Strategic phased development to acheive long term sustainable growth of the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Region Applicability : Reconfiguration and improvement of transit Revitalization of vacant industrial site Cultural and entertainment amenities throughout site Flexible business spaces within leisure environment

LEHIGH GAP NATURE CENTER brownfield revitalization Architect/Developer : Viacom Location : Lehigh Gap, PA Year : 2002 Client : DCNR with the EPA & D&L Program : 400 acres of restored Superufnd site 2.5 miles of Riparian buffer Thesis : Promote conservation through education, research, and outdoor recreation Applicability : Connection to other parks and trail systems Revitalization of previous industrial site Bioremediation of habitats

LEHIGH RIVER MASTER PLAN heritage renessaince Architect/Developer : EDSA with JAINDL Location : Allentown, PA Year : Published 2012 Client : the city of Allentown Program : recreation, tourism, retail, commercial, residential Thesis : A balanced, live-worktourism destination driven by river orientation, architectural heritage, and industrial history Applicability : Celebration of history in culture and infrastructure Emphasis on sustainable living & business practices Integration of private property with public spaces Connect existing trails with downtown walking areas Habitat-sensitive landscape and waterfront build-up

PARC GĂœELL garden cities Architect/Developer : Antoni GaudĂ­ Location : Barcelona, Spain Year : 1900-1914 Client : Eusebi GĂźell Program : private residences and communal amenities Thesis : A small ideal city in a completely natural setting to enjoy beauty, leisure, hygiene and healthiness Applicability : Water management and natural collection Local vegetation as terrain management Prioritization of open space and gardens Nature-inspired structures

KEY DISTRICT ASPECTS

SCHUYLKILL YARDS PLAN

SMARTCITIES

T HE S ITE t he br i d g e t o c o n n e c t i t al l

Within the scope of the master plan for Schuylkill Yards, sites were zoned for high-rise development.

The northern most plot was identified as a key anchor for the new public park and connection to existing cultural epicenters. The prevailing environmental conditions of the area were considered for optimal arrangement, and dictated the development of the skyscraper design.

KEY SITE ASPECTS

KEY SITE ASPECTS

SITE PLANNING

NOVA NATURA

T HE BU ILDI N G a beacon f o r e n v i ro n m e n tal ste ward sh ip

The Nova Natura shall serve as headquarters to Philadelphia’s branches of the Department of the Interior, as government offices which pursue the protection of the environment. Recreation and education services will engage the surrounding park lands and newly established habitats. Private commercial operations will financially support the center, focusing on natural resource management and energy generation. The building itself shall support these endeavors through cutting edge performance systems and integrated technologies that generate and monitor renewable resources.

PRECEDENTS

SEASHELL natural form optimization SEASHELL natural material efficiency SHRIMP EYES solar collection INSECT HAIR wind energy and data

SEASHELL natural form optimization Function: material efficiency structural strength sustainable growth Highlights: logarithmic formula Fibonnaci Sequence Golden Ratio Applicability : structural systems formal organization Form Defining Parameters: - shape of aperture profile

S D W T

- distance of aperture from axis of rotation

- rate of aperture expansion

- rate of translation along coiling curve

Influential Factors : environmental conditions material resources programmatic requirements

SEASHELL natural material efficiency MATERIAL calcium carbonate <2% protein Three Distinct Layers uncalcified periosteum ‘weather’ enclosure calcified prismatic core internal support inner pearly nacre interior finish Properties structural rigidity water flow management protective enclosure program anchoring Formulaic Pattern some exterior shells follow a wave pattern due to the natural periodic growth cycle, directly related to the organism’s access to resources and demand for programmatic expansion

SHRIMP EYES solar collection Operation Rays from an object point entering through different facets are superimposed by a radial arrangement of orthogonal reflecting planes formed by the sides of the crystalline cones and the purine layers surrounding them Color Reaction crystalline cones - boxes contain uv-blocking MMAs light sensitive proteins receive filtered light from cones react to different wavelengths result in pigmentation Building Application solar energy harnessing UV protection shading screen passive lighting strategies

INSECT HAIR wind energy and data Mechanoreceptive Filiform detect environmental conditions temperature changes wind flow alien substances structure stresses Building Applications wind energy harnessing environmental data collection structural stress monitoring Evolution of Wind Turbines omnidirectional hypersensitivity minimzed view obstruction maximized surface application

NOVA NATURA

T HE DES IGN a proces s t o w a rd s o p t i m izat io n

Upon the foundations of the new Philadelphia plan and Schuylkill Yards master plan, the Nova Natura Institute was built. For ten weeks a thorough design process explored aspects of biomimicry, structural systems, program accomodation, and sustainable performance.

THE FORM

THE STRUCTURE

THE PROGRAM

THE PROGRAM

THE PERFORMANCE

FISH SCALE PRECEDENT The iridescent quality of fish scales lends itself well to the reflective intention of the solar array of the sails.

PV MEMBRANE Three sails wrap Nova Natura in a Photovoltaic array which permits filtered light for natural daylighting while collecting solar energy for internal use and distribution.

MEMBRANE MATERIAL Panels of photovoltaic textiles - ETFE - harness solar energy through heat transfer while providing aesthetic benefits and controlled daylighting.

FRAME DETAIL The diagrid sail assembly partners two venturs in renewable energy solar and wind.

CILIA MATERIAL An array of polycarbonate cilia laced with micro sensors serves to generate micro-kinetic energy through wind flow and collect data regarding air quality.

CILIA DETAIL A 3â&#x20AC;? gap in the diagrid frame forces air through an array of cilia sensors for wind energy harnessing and data collection.

INSECT CILIA PRECEDENT Artificial cilia are derived from the form and neuron network of hairs along insect legs which assist in environmental awareness.

NOVA NATURA

T HE PRES E N TAT IO N a s um m a r y o f a s e m e s t e r

The culmination of the semester was a final presentation of the building design in conjunction with the master planning and SmartCity concepts. A composition of four boards showcased the major aspects of Nova Natura, and encouraged contemplation of how this high-rise building will contribute to the progress of urban architecture and metropolitan society.

NOVA N AT U R A

B R E A N N A SHE E L E R SMA RTC ITIE S FA L L 2 0 1 8

a new anchor f or en v iron men tal steward sh ip

The city of Philadelphia in 2050 will be a new precedent in green urbanism. Citizen-centric master planning ensures walkable communities, biophilic landscaping, and robust mass transit. Five keystone zones will lead future progress for Philadlephia.

The redevelopment plan of Schuylkill Yards focuses on connecting the two sides of the river in an attempt to revitalize this part of West Philadelphia. By creating a public park, essential natural infrastructure is brought to the city. This park will feature water retention, large growth trees and landscaping, and a series of pavilions with different public programs. All new development is being constructed above the existing rail lines, with I76 to be relocated underground.

The Nova Natura shall serve as headquarters to Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s branches of the Department of the Interior, as government offices which pursue the protection of the environment. Recreation and education services will engage the surrounding park lands and newly established habitats. Private commercial operations will financially support the center, focusing on natural resource management and energy generation.

CULTURE AND EDUCATION

THE BOARDS

GREEN SPACE

PUBLIC TRANSIT

STRUCTURAL PLAN

STRUCTURE

TYPICAL COMMERCIAL FLOOR

CIRCULATION

TYPICAL PUBLIC FLOOR

PROGRAM

FORM DEVELOPMENT

PERMUTATIONS OF FORM

RAIL

NO

MO

RIPAARIAN BUFFERS

SS ACCE ROAD

SCHUYLKILL RIVER

WETLAND

RETENTION POND

GROUND PLAN WITH SITE CONTEXT

AN PATH

PEDESTRI

NOVA NATURA The Nova Natura Center for Environmental Stewardship will serve the as the reacreation hub of Schuylkill Yards and administrative institute of Philadelphiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department of the Interior.

SCHUYLKILL RIVER Engagement wilth the river holds many opportunities - expanding the pedestrian path system, creating safe receation zones, and planting the banks with water-purifying vegetation.

WIND EXPOSURE

MONORAIL A light rail connects the new high rise buildings of Schuylkill Yards, from 30th Station to the Museum of Art across the river, easing public access to the site and the rest of the city.

SOLAR ACCESS

RETENTION POND Two rentention ponds on site are capable of managing all predicted stormwater and increased flooding from the Schuylkill River, filtered by local flora and dispersed through the site for irrigation.

SCHUYLKILL YARDS MASTER PLAN

WATER MANAGEMENT SITE SECTION

FISH SCALE PRECEDENT The iridescent quality of fish scales lends itself well to the reflective intention of the solar array of the sails.

PV MEMBRANE Three sails wrap Nova Natura in a Photovoltaic array which permits filtered light for natural daylighting while collecting solar energy for internal use and distribution.

MEMBRANE MATERIAL Panels of photovoltaic textiles - ETFE - harness solar energy through heat transfer while providing aesthetic benefits and controlled daylighting.

FRAME DETAIL The diagrid sail assembly partners two venturs in renewable energy solar and wind.

CILIA MATERIAL An array of polycarbonate cilia laced with micro sensors serves to generate micro-kinetic energy through wind flow and collect data regarding air quality.

CILIA DETAIL A 3â&#x20AC;? gap in the diagrid frame forces air through an array of cilia sensors for wind energy harnessing and data collection.

INSECT CILIA PRECEDENT Artificial cilia are derived from the form and neuron network of hairs along insect legs which assist in environmental awareness.

THE MODELS

NOVA NATURA

T HE REF L EC T IO N a cons i d e r a t io n o f a c h i e v e me n ts an d asp irat io n s

Upon completing this semester, there is a desire to reflect upon the lessons learned. Both academic which furthered oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding of complex concepts, and personal which furthered oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appreciation for the design process. Utlimately I would say I am very proud of the concept which guided my building design. The program which encourages public-private partnerships and facilitates community betterment, the establishment of biophilic greenery within the urban fabric, and the development of a new facade system are all compelling achievements. However, I am admittedly dissapointed in the quality of the graphics which were presented at the final crit. While they conveyed the information desired, I am poignantly aware that they were no where near what I am capable of. The strength of the thesis must support the strength of the project.

THE REFERENCES

http://lgnc.org/ http://www.nextsuccession.com/2015/09/lehighgap.html https://lvgreenways.org/mini-grants/ https://www.radnor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2509/Clem-Macrone-Park-Master-Plan-Proposal-PDF http://www.glasgowcityregion.co.uk/article/7634/East-Renfrewshire https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/councillorsandcommittees/viewSelectedDocument.asp?c=P62AFQDNT1DNT1ZLZ3 http://360architecture.com/projects/masterplanning/m77-corridor/ http://www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=2826 https://www.edsaplan.com/project/lehigh-river-waterfront-master-plan/ https://thewaterfront.com/the-waterfront-development/the-waterfront-master-plan/ http://www.wfmz.com/news/lehigh-valley/allentowns-lehigh-river-master-plan-wins-award/18249756 https://www.allentownpa.gov/Portals/0/files/Planning_Zoning/Lehigh%20Riverfront%20Master%20Plan%20Report.pdf http://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/ecologiaurbana/en/bodies-involved/citizen-participation/park-guell http://www.parkguell.cat/fileadmin/user_upload/Pdf/Dossier_Escoles_ENG.pdf http://www.gaudiclub.com/premilite/2004/gardener2.asp https://en.wikiarquitectura.com/building/park-gueell/#lg=1&slide=21 https://people.uwec.edu/jolhm/cave2005/group4/gastropods.htm Stach, Edgar. “The Morphology of Seashells.” An Anthology of Structural Morphology, by Motro René, World Scientific, 2009, pp.

173–185. http://ronshimek.com/blog/?tag=gastropoda https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Quantification-and-geometric-analysis-of-coiling-in-Noshita/31a6f4c9cb29e26454a66d5ca 8a8744a91e42fea Koji Noshita, Takahiro Asami, Takao Ubukata; Functional constraints on coiling geometry and aperture inclination in gastropods.

Paleobiology ; 38 (2): 322–334. doi: https://www.archdaily.com/551062/shell-lace-structure-tonkin-liu-s-nature-inspired-structural-technique https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/phenomena/2014/07/03/natures-most-amazing-eyes-just-got-a-bit-weirder/ https://asknature.org/strategy/complex-structures-focus-reflected-light/#.W6l0lmhKiUk https://www.quora.com/Do-mantis-shrimp-actually-see-more-colors-than-humans http://www.sci-news.com/biology/mantis-shrimp-eye-rotations-polarization-vision-04022.html http://watchingtheworldwakeup.blogspot.com/2009/11/amazing-housefly-part-2-coolest-eye.html https://www.wired.com/2004/10/an-empire-built-of-glass/ http://www.pnas.org/content/106/16/6837 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-are-seashells-created/ https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/0802/0802.3768.pdf https://www.engineering.com/DesignerEdge/DesignerEdgeArticles/ArticleID/17198/Hair-That-Can-See-Everything-Sensors-of-theFuture.aspx https://phys.org/news/2013-06-hair-sensor-uncovers-hidden.html http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/sciencenotfiction/2010/09/24/tiny-hair-like-smart-materials-sense-their-environment/#.

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