Overview **This outline is an annex to general course outline
School/Department: School of Sciences and Engineering Department of Architecture
Sustainability in Architectural Design/ ARCH 3554 Sundays [Lecture time 3 30pm – 4:15pm, Studio 4:30pm - 8:30pm]
Credits Prerequisites Semester offered: 4 hr Credit Most of the course will occur synchronously face to face (e g : Studio feedback sessions – selected sessions may be conducted asynchronously (e g via zoom).
Contact Information/Office Hours:
Name: Sherif Goubran
Title: Assistant Professor (Co-instructor Email address: sherifg@aucegypt.edu
Online Office Hours: By appointment via email
Name: Amal Hamdy Title: Assistant Professor (Co-Instructor) Email address: amalhamdy@aucegypt.edu Online Office Hours: By appointment via email
Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs):
Mariam Amer, mariam.a@aucegypt.edu
Mariam El Hussieny, mariam.elhussainy@aucegypt.edu
Rana Raafat Ali, ranamuhammad@aucegypt.edu
Course Information
Catalog Description:
A tudio on Environment and Sustainability. This studio will allow students to investigate various aspects of the environment and ‘sustainability’ as a force within the architectural profession. Recent increases in global climatic and social pressures have necessitated environmental awareness as well as new architectural design solutions. Using current sustainable design strategies as a foundation, students will analyze and implement their own environmentally responsible analysis and designs. Conservation and recycling of materials and waste management. Field trip to gain hand on experience on the sustainable design and waste management is a requirement.
UIA Course Learning Outcomes:
• Fulfillment of UIA Objectives 5 and 12): Have the ability to assess environmental issues in a building in relation to sustainability (materials impact, energy consumption, recycling building components and materials, etc).
• Fulfillment of UIA Objectives 6 and 9): Appropriately develop abilities to use writing & graphic skills, fundamental design skills, and critical thinking skills in relation to ecological and sustainable concepts.
• Fulfillment of UIA Objectives 1,8 and 13): Acquire analytica skills through understanding, evaluating and comparing between existing and historic precedents in relation to sustainable design (western and non-western) utilizing research capabilities
• Fulfillment of UIA Objectives 11 and 16): Acquire means of assessing impact on community from a social and ecological standpoint.
• Fulfillment of UIA Objectives 7): Understand the impact of site conditions on the architectural decision-making process and the ability to apply these criteria to building configuration and orm generation.
[Copyright © American University in Cairo, 202 1]
The exercises helped me organise my thoughts and dedicate time to specific tasks that could have been lost along the way. They were also in sync with the course outline made it feel less of a task and more of a helpful organization process.
Portfolio Improvements: exercise 4 + 5 + bonus were completed
Class exercise 1 Integrated design (based on AIA COTE Top Ten framework )
Areas of interest: Central Design Concept Beauty and Delight Integrated Process
Narrative: Describe how integrated sustainable design strategies can be incorporated into the overall design. What are the major environmental issues and goals? How can your building respond to the local climate, site and occupant comfort?
Requirements:
1. Map the following: a. Vegetation - ground cover, undergrowth, mature trees, heights b. Sensory Inventory - textures, views, odours, sounds, tastes, plus intuition and sense of safety c. Solar Access - shadows from adjacent fo rms, seasonal sun path
2. Analyze using Climate Consultant and produce your location -specific psychrometric chart and quantify the opportunity for natural ventilation. a. What percentage of the year can the building use natural ventilation? b. Describe (graphically) how these opportunities have been utilized.
Submission:
1. Using a conceptual building section , create a comprehensive graphic (1 panel ) to illustrate big ideas and cross-disciplinary synergies. Also include: a. Site analysis b. Site sections c. Results of climatic analysis
2. In less than 100 words, describe how you have incorporated sustainability strategies into your overall design (i.e. how design elements serve multiple purposes, working together). What is the "big idea" that drives the project and its purpose? (make sure this evident in your presentation graphics).
Class exercise 2 Change and Discovery (based on AIA COTE Top Ten framework )
Areas of interest: Reuse Flexibility and Future Adaptability Resilience Inclusivity Passive Survivability Changing Climate Reuse Flexibility and Future Adaptability Resilience
Passive Survivability Changing Climate
Narrative: Describe how the design prom otes long-term flexibility, reuse, adaptability, and resilience. What steps have you taken to ensure that the building remains relevant and useful to the community in the long term? What lessons can you learn from precedents of similar projects and how do they apply to your project?
Requirements:
1. Research the history of the site and anticipated real estate and economic development trends in the area. How is your project future proof (i.e. will not be misaligned with the location over the years, for example).
2. Plan for project expansion and eventual change of use, illustrating potential areas for additional development or alternative uses for this project over time
3. Research similar projects, built and unbuilt that targeted and achieved some of the same social, economic or functional goals. What can you learn from them?
Submission:
1. Using one graphical panel (using architectur al drawings and diagrams) , present the outcomes of your research, your envisioned extension and changes, and how similar projects (i.e. precedents have informed your approach)
2. In less than 150 words, describe how the design promotes long -term flexibility, reuse, adaptability, and resilience. Describe how precedents informed those design decisions.
Class exercise 3
Equitable Communities and economic considerations (based on AIA COTE Top Ten framework )
Areas of interest:
Walkability / Human Scale / Alternative Transportation Community Engagement & Buy-In Social Equity Building Size Building efficiency Socio-economic fit
Narrative: How does the design respond to the region where it 's located? What steps are taken to encourage alternative transportation? How does the design promote regional and community connectivity? How does your design fit with local socio -economic conditions? How have you gone about optimizing your building to reduce its cost and improve its efficiency?
1. Research regional and historic design precedent: architecture, craft, arts.
2. Research local culture, history, music, festivals, food
3. Research economic history and current initiatives, population and income statistics nearby
4. Research potentials for encourag ing active transport on -site – as opposed to car-centric solutions
5. Map the walking and alternative commuting routes on site. How m any of your users will be walking to your building?
6. Research possible local building materials and crafts that could be incorp orated in the building components (i.e. not only by incorporating crafts into the function of the spaces –such as workshops)
7. Explore the value creation of the different components of your project? What are the economic impacts of your building on the comm unity? Do you think they are well justified considering the initial construction costs? Is it a viable business plan?
8. Create a heat map of user interaction in the project. Compare daytime to nighttime. Is there an opportunity for shared space s?
9. Calculate the percentage of the building used solely for circulation. Can any of those areas be moved to the exterior, absorbed into adjacent spaces, or eliminated?
10. Optimize the building's circulation and services spaces and estimate the reduction in costs associated with this.
1. Using one graphical panel (using architectur al drawings and diagrams) , present how the design embodies the context and the community(ies) it aims to serve.
a. How does it connect culturally, materially, and physically to the communities around it?
b. How does this building serve the community in diverse ways?
c. What role does it play in the promotion of alternative and human -powered transportation?
2. Using one graphical panel (using architectur al drawings and diagrams) , present the estimated value created through your building, the interaction heat maps and how they informed your design of circulation and serves, and how you went about optimizing the building's efficiency (in term s of circulation and services).
3. In less than 150 words, describe your vision of the equitable community that your building aims to create, how your design and its elements embod y that vision , and how your design considers the context's socio-economic realities.
Class exercise 5 Energy and Resources (based on AIA COTE Top Ten framework )
Areas of interest: Energy Benchmarking Energy Modeling
Metered Energy Use Intensity (EUI) Passive Design Features Climate Responsive Design Project Type Response Education Operational Carbon Calculation Whole Building Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) Tracking building product Environmental Impacts Raw Material Sourcing Tracking Health Impacts Social Equity within the Supply Chain
Narrative: Describe how your building aims to be mindful of its resource use and footprint. How do you see to decrease the total energy use and carbon footprint of the building? What were efforts made to reduce the amount of material used and waste and the environme ntal impact of materials over their lifetime?
Requirements:
1. Run simple energy simulation (using insight 360 , for example) to estimate the energy use intensity. Estimate the carbon footprint of the energy used
2. Estimate how you can offset this through renewables on site
3. Optimize your design (form and footprint) to reduce it s energy consumption
4. Identify the carbon footprint of three (3) primary building materials per unit and compare to an alternative material.
5. Estimate (rough estimate) the carbon emissions associated with your building construction (using The Construction Carbon Calculator or Athena Impact Estimator for Buildings) Explore the effect of reducing the building size or changing its construction materials
6. Research who is making the building products you want to use. Are there potentials to use locally produced materials? What impact (positive or negative) do these products have on this community?
Submission:
1. Using two graphic panels (using architectur al drawings and diagrams) , present your energy analysis and optimization process outcome s. Also present (using a wall section , for example) the materials that are integrated in to the design, their carbon impacts and their relation to the site, the building users and the community
My project will utilize the abundant vegetation on site to decontaminate the soil in place of the USTs using a more sustainable and environmentally process called phytoremediation which depends on planting specific trees that absorb the contaminants from the soil. Some of the tree species that can be used in this process which are also available at Maadi are:
Eucalyptus Tree - 10 m Willow Tree - 5 m
Maadi's map from 2000 to 2022 shows how some of the trees were cut off & replaced by residential buildings and newly constructed roads to cope with the increased traffic & human density. It is relatively abundant in vegetation in 2022 but devegetation will be a risk by 2050.
Greenery is also implemented in hydroponic vertical walls, green roofs, courtyards, and outdoor landscape to optimize the environmental analysis and reconnect the community with such a main aspect of the site
The most prominent sensory experiences in my site are the smell of the nile, the bustling noise of cars & honking, and the smell of vegetation.
I recreated some of these experiences inside my project while buffering the unwanted ones through a layer of vegetation and landscape Nile smell via aquaponics
Based on the activities you completed. Attempt to map the overlap between your design and the Sustainable development Goals (SDGs).
This is the text of the full agenda : https://sdgs.un.org/2030agenda This is an interactive website to help you navigate the goals : https://sdgs.un.org/goals
Here are useful architectural examples:
Institute of Architecture and Technology (KADK), The Danish Association of Architects and The UIA Commission on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. (2020), An Architecture Guide to the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals , edited by Mossin, N., Stilling, S., Bøjstrup, T.C., Larsen, V.G., Lotz, M. and Blegvad, A., Vol. 2, Royal Danish Academy, Copenha gen. Institute of Architecture and Technology (KADK), The Danish Association of Architects, & The UIA Commission on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. (2018). An architecture guide to the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals (N. Mossin, S. Stilling, T. C. Bøjstrup, V. G. Larsen, M. Lotz, & A. Blegvad (eds.)). KADK. (https://issuu.com/kadk/docs/un17_guidebook_single_page_low )
• List the SDGs that you think your building design and activities are helping achieve (reinforcing)
o Are there specific targets that you think you are addressing?
o Describe these reinforcements in less than 150 words
• List the SDGs that you think your building design and activities are putting at risk (tradeoffs)
o Are there specific target s you think your building is putting at risk?
o Describe these trade-offs in less than 150 words
Submission:
1. Using one graphical panel (using drawings and diagrams) , present the overlap between your project and the SDGs.
2. In less than 400 words (combining the two previous statements), present the overall alignment statement between your project and the SDGs, clarifying the specific reinforcements and trade-offs.
While my building production each year is 198769.08 / 98550 = 1.51 which means an energy saving of about 150 % per year
Solar panels implemented in surfaces with highest solar radiation (based on the analysis) such as the south facade of the tower and also roofs that were tilted to maximise the gains
Utilizing new technologies as the cooling tower to direct the prevailing wind towards specific areas
Sewer-mining & atmospheric water generatorto reuse and generate the buildings own water with 90% being reused
Using kinetic tiles in zones with high human density
Replacing regular glass with with e-glass which has the lowest U value in the Egyptian market
Using only electrical equipment
Maximise on natural resources & renewable energy
CONCLUSION: renewables cover energy needs
These porous solids consisting of metal ions linked by organic molecules can capture atmospheric moisture in very dry air and release that water with moderate solar heating. These materials and polymers bonds with the humidity in the air and condenses it to water.
Recycled water from the sewer-ming is used for aquaponics
Recycled car tires as a roofing layer
Car tires have high thermal insulation which will help in adjusting the temperature inside the building and reduce the dependancy on electrical heating & cooling
Mist jets to help humidify the air and turn it into water Recycled concrete from surrounding buildings that will become obsolete by 2050 recycled paper insulat on MOF & hydrogels mixed with cement Reinforcement w th recycled fish nets
Generated water is used to grow the hydroponics
Water is purified as it descends along the tower
wall cavity
Upcycled car tires Recycled concrete
Approximate net embodied CO2 for this project is
Clean energy alternatives as solar panels, kinetic tiles, and low flush devices.
The goal of the project is to achieve most of the SDGs. Some of the examples that could be implemented in the next phase are no poverty and zero hunger which can be achieved by creating job opportunities and a large workforce that can cater to the community.
After the Jury, I had to focus on one notion, and I achieved that by concentrating on solving one problem locally rather than attempting to solve them all.I learned through this that it's preferable to concentrate on just one problem than to have too many. I traced all the problems back to their underlying causes and discovered that they frequently overlapped. As a result, I decided to focus on one root cause, which helped me become more focused while still having a significant influence.
Choose a gas station, then learn about the surroundings and the structure. Examine environmental and decontamination methods.
• Other gas station option should be removed
• Less text
• Sensory mapping is confusing due to the many icons
• Specify which type of trees can be used in phytoremediation
I feel like the posters were not coherent as each group member was responsible for a poster.
Majority of land consumed by vegetation; thus, enhancing environmental approaches taken for 2050, such as green roofs.
Some types of trees at Corniche El Maadi: Trees heights ranges between 5-16 m (naturally shading trees)
Eucalyptus Tree Flame Tree Jacaranda
Trees implemented on the Phytomeditation:
Eucalyptus Tree - 10 m Willow trees - 5 m
High populated area; Traffic congestion & human overcrowdedness.
Future Benefits:
● Economical increment
● Increment in population
● More & easier exposure to the gas station
All surrounding buildings’ have more than 10 floors → Self shading implemented
With the progression of solar intensity, solar technologies will be implemented for 2050, such as:
● Solar panels
● A tilted roof
● Other shading techniques
Analyzing pattern language during morning and night hours to implement best approaches while designing for users in order to enjoy their experience throughout the whole day with the shift of behavioral patterns.
Institutional Buildings Commercial Buildings Residential Buildings
Camphor Tree Willow trees Apple Blossom Tree
Development of pinup 1 and add plans, sections, elevations and 3D shots for the site.
• Context should be elaborated more in plan view
• Techniques used in section should be more detailed
We became more familiar with our site and contextualised our research to find futuristic approaches that will help in active problems such as Nile River droughts
Develop a future vision of the site and how you want to respond to this vision.
• SWOT needs to be more clear
• Sensory mapping needs to be richer in details and less generic
I think that our outcome improved compared to the first submission as we included more layers and worked on the coherence of our posters and visuals
M E L T I N G P O T
Individual future vision of the site and precedents of repurposing.
I focused more on researching my site and coming up with a concept but did not give the same attention to portraying my vision architecturally which weakened my presentation
CONCEPTUAL JURY: INDIVIDUAL DESCRIPTION
Devegetat on Urban Congestion Creating
Cafeteria 6 x 6 Highest
percentage of foreigners' accommodation & embassies in Cairo
Consequent
decline in tourism upon the deterioration of the area
• Missing bubble diagram
• Space program needs to be richer and areas should be added
• Vision mood-board still needs improvement
• The conceptual section is a good way of representing the concept
I enjoyed this phase as I got to use the great amount of research that we did as a group and cater it to my specific vision and develop on it.
Sewer Mining: Water Treatment to be ready to use on-site
Drone Station: Delivery services, emergencies as car repair, charging units, Distributing behavioural campaign pamphlets
High-Tech Exhibition Hall: displaying new technologal advances, reviving the old and extinct via holograms, raising cultural awareness, planning behavioural campaigns (example: volunteering to clean the nile
& develop water treatment techniques
Services: Restaurants, toilets, stairs
Additional double height building to be the exhibition hall
R & D
Open, green, shaded space to sit, relax, socialise with water feature (aquaponic pond) contrasting the outside world
Piezoelectric Cells in denser spaces
Additional Building Different Uses
Scenario 1: Lecture Hall
Scenario 2: New Technologies Exhibition
Scenario 3: Nostalgia Exhibition + Crafts
Extinct Fish + animal + nature holograms
Aerobic wastewater Treatment (Nile Water + Sewer-Mining)
Roof embedded with Photovoltaic cells
Car Charging Unit Drone Charging Unit
Drone Delivery
Hydroponic wall covering the existing building
Therapy room where people share their feelings then it gets reflected with colors on glass so people feel connected, example:
Anger - Red Sadness - Blue Happiness - Yellow Relaxation - Green
Use of glass so people on the street can see what is happening inside to create awareness + connection
Dense Vegetation around outdoor area to absorb heat island
ouble Height exhibition room to mphasize its importance
ow rise building contrasting the high wers that give sense of isolation
Outdoor seating + relaxation area around the aquaponic pond
Water features as a prominent feature through the building to emphasize the importance of the Nile
#1 section 01
Group members: Safy Allam
Hania El-Tayeb
Sohaila Sallam
Habiba Rizk
Monica Magdy
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Table Of Contents:
1 Project Introduction
a Abstract page 3
b Project general information page 4-5
2 Site Detailing
a. Site Brief………………………………………… ……..….page 7-9 b. Site Analysis………………………………………………..page 7-9 c. Design Analysis…………………………………………… page 7-9 d. Climate Analysis………………………………………..…..page 10 e. Critique………………………………………………….… page 10-12
3 Precedents
a. Helios gas station……………………………………. ……page 13-15 b. Bayot St. John Home………………………………………page 16-17 c. Critique…………………………………………………
4 Futuristic Speculations
a Environmental Assumptions page 23-25 b Design Assumptions page 23-25 c Touristic Assumptions page 23-25
5 Conclusion page 34
Pictures
Picture #1: Total Gas Station ………………………………………………………..…page
Picture #2: Garm Hospital……………………………………………………………...page 7
Picture #3: View on Nile………………………………………………………..……...page 7
Picture #4: Populated Area………………………………………………………...…...page 7
Picture #5: Vegetation……………………………………………………………...…...page 7
Picture #6: Area Analysis……………………………………………………….……....page 7
Picture #7: Site Plan……………………………………………………………….…….page 7
Picture #8: Solid & Void………………………………………………………………...page 7
Picture #9: Real life reference…………………………………………………………...page 7
Picture #10: Vegetation Analysis………………………………………………………...page 7
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ARCH 3554 Architectural Design Studio III (2022 Fall)In this project, methods of repurposing gas stations have been provided with the main aim to create and maintain a sustainable environment. Furthermore, to settle on a specific design strategy, climatic, environmental and technological research have been conducted in order to speculate a certain vision and help in its perseverance. By firstly conducting a climatic analysis, the negative impacts of climate change on vegetation and water landscapes arose; and by a deeper analysis of users’ behaviors and patterns affected by such circumstances, a gas station was thus chosen. “TotalEnegries: Corniche El-Maadi ''gas station is chosen based on its context and how it is significantly influenced by such comprehensive research. Studies on how to make use of its substructure and superstructure were conducted with the careful consideration of soil abatement and decontamination. Various precedent studies played a significant role in the design approach and concept implementation as will be shown in depth later in this paper Following a set of steps, it was concluded through the conducted studies the reason of choice of the site, environmental and analytical studies to support mentioned claims as well as different precedents until reaching the speculations of 2050.
With electric cars prevailing and fossil-fuel mechanicals vanishing gradually gas stations located every couple of kilometers will eventually become obsolete. In order to make use of such spacious areas, many ideas have been evolving for either repurposing or demolishing with the main aim of maintaining its sustainability and ensuring a green environment. To reach such innovative solutions and ideas, a deep understanding and research should be done to enable a logical speculation of what can happen in 2050. When such speculation is thought of, the repurposing of the gas stations will become more usable and suitable for whatever change Earth is expecting.
When choosing a site, certain aspects should be covered that would be helpful when designing for the futuristic vision for the chosen site. Thus, before deciding on a location, a research was conducted through certain steps, starting by navigating through different locations around Cairo -focusing on sites that were rich in contextual information. Secondly, a list of sites were narrowed down before the group started spreading throughout cairo, each two members visiting a site and noting down the needed information. Finally an intense study was conducted on the preferable site after a discussion and sharing notes throughout the group.
The following site ‘Total Gas Station’ was the chosen site for the following reasons explained below in detail and how it would help our futuristic vision for the site and the area surrounding it.
a SITE BRIEF
Total Gas Station
● Location: Corniche EL Maadi
● Total Area = 1410 m2
○ Enclosed Area = 320 m2
○ Open Space Area = 1090 m2
● PROS:
○ Rich in context
■ Hospital behind it (Picture #2)
■ Overly populated (Picture #4)
● Varied user groups
■ Coffee shops & restaurants on the Nile (Picture #3)
○ Central Location
■ The gas station is exposed to different group users as it’s located near different nodes and landmarks such as, the hospital,
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coffee shops, resturants and a high populated area surrounding it.
○ Environmentally Challenging
■ Excessive Vegetation (Picture #5)
■ Nile’s presence
● CONS:
○ Total gas stations scandaled for pollution
■ After conducting research, it was found that total gas stations were scandled for polluting the earth and using un-enviromentally friendly techniques to reserve their station’s importance and popularity among the society
■ Thus, it is assumed that the gas station won’t last much for the upcoming future as it was harmful to the environment.
○ Industrial waste and dumps are discharged into the Nile
■ Limiting the use of water
● It will be discussed later through research how by 2050, a loss in water, droughts, etc… would be found in our site.
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Almost 80% of El Maadi lands are occupied by vegetation and natural shading.
○ Trees heights range between 5-16 m
○ Self-shading implemented
■ Throughout the journey in the streets surrounding the site, one could barely feel the intensity of the sun. The trees created the perfect passageway for the walkers. Making it an adequate walkable area.
○ Some types of trees at Maadi →
Gas station Location is:
● Central
○ Gas station is located centrally before a ring which acts as a central axis for the whole area. Different routes are surrounding the gas station, making it the perfect location for our design, as people will have to pass by the station before transitioning from a street to another
● Easy to access
● Many residential buildings
○ Overly Populated (Picture #8)
■ Traffic congestion
■ Economically Beneficial
● People visits would increase to the station due to the high population density; thus more income would be generated.
○ Accessible to all ages
○ Tall Buildings (Picture #9)
■ More than 10 floors
■ Cascading shadows on themselves
● Surrounded with vegetation (Picture #10)
STRUCTURE
The building structure consists of simple slab concrete beams and columns. The outer facades are cladded with stone and doors are made of glass.
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Picture #11 : Structura p an o he exist ng build ng and canopy scale 1:100
The building is made of steel beams and columns supporting a lightweight aluminum roof. The roof contains openings which let it act as a shading device while also letting in sunlight in moderate amounts.
A tanker transports petrol to the gas station. It is connected to an inlet pipe which leads to the underground fuel tank. The tank is refilled and then connects to each gas pump via tubes. The pumps are then ready to fuel vehicles. However the fuel tank underground can be a cause for groundwater contamination. That is why the process of soil abatement is important before the land is repurposed. The site must be excavated to remove contaminated soil. The fuel in the underground tank is removed via a vacuum truck and the tank is removed and cleaned off site. The contaminated underground water is removed and cleaned in a water plant. Finally, clean soil from the same location is backfilled into the excavated area. With this process done, the land is ready for repurposing.
In 2020, the climate analysis conducted proved that Egypt is facing several climatic problems, including: 1. Elevated Temperature 2. Rising water deficit 3. Rising sea levels
Following the weather patterns over the past decades, it can be speculated that the climatic problems that have already started severely affecting Egypt will escalate even more by 2050, including:
1. Elevated temperature
2. Droughts
3. Floods
After conducting the climate research, it was concluded that an area like Maadi would be mainly affected by droughts due to its proximity to the Nile River
Phytoremediation is an alternative method to cleansing “Brown Fields” instead of the conventional method. Specific vegetation types are used to cleanse the contaminated soil by breaking down the harmful chemicals & heavy metals; it is proven to be more:
1. Cost-effective:
2. Environmentally-friendly:
3. The abundance of vegetation in Maadi makes it a suitable location for implementing the process as some of the required types of plants are already available there, such as the Willow & Eucalyptus trees. However there are disadvantages to this method, such as:
1. Long time spans to decontaminate the soil depending on the concentration of contaminants, area of the brownfield, and the growing time of the used plants.
The process is divided into 5 main steps:
Rhizofiltration: Uptake of contaminants by plant roots
Phytoextraction: Uptake of contaminants from high concentration in the soil to low concentration in plant tissues
Phytotransformation: Degradation of contaminants through plant metabolism
Phyto-stabilization: Reduce the migration potential of soil contaminants
Phyto-volatilization: Volatilization of pollutants to the air
According to the research conducted on the chosen site (Total Gas Station - Corniche EL Maddi) it was decided that the site carried beneficial aspects to it as much as it held challenging aspects to tackle.
With how rich the context was, the site analysis proved the validity of the location and how it could be beneficial to different futuristic functions. As much as it was economically beneficial for our futuristic plans, based on research, it posed vast environmental challenges that would be the perfect aid for our environmentally researched and to be designed projects.
Although the area is challengingly small in size, it seemed like the perfect location for the futuristic project. It channeled many possibilities for each group member and reflected the required needs according to the project’s brief.
Helios Gas Station is an exploration of a “green” gas station. Located in Los Angeles, California, previously the location of an ordinary gas station, the project’s goal was to upgrade the preexisting gas station into a more environmentally responsive building. The upcycling and recycling of old materials, transformed Helios Gas Station into a more ecological project.
Pic ure #17 : Real shot of Hel os Gas Sta ion
The station’s water, heat, energy, and light systems have all been built to maximize sustainability. It includes solar panels over the canopy roof, energy-efficient lights and sensors, green roofs covering the back building, and an on-site water collection system. The recycled stainless steel canopy is also reflective, which reduces electricity consumption even further
In addition to the sustainability measures that Helios Gas Station has taken to make it a more environmentally friendly building, it also provides the surrounding community with a place to donate old cell phones, and a recycling collection facility
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Located at 3300 Dumaine Street in Bayou-St. John, New Orleans, a completely renovated gas station has become a livable space. The 200m2 area includes 2 bathrooms and 2 bedrooms.
P cture #20 Rea sho o Bayou St John Home
The most unique part of this home is the use of already existing structures in the design element. The exposed beams and wooden trusses are contemporary to the original architecture. The double height ceiling allowed for an addition of a second story, with the landing of the stairs being supported by a hydraulic lift. Picture #21 : Hydrau ic l f used as stair and ng Picture #22 :Exposed beams and wooden trusses
P c ure #23: Open F oor Plan o Bayou S John Home
Some decorative elements in the new home are all gas station related features, such as car emblems as drawer and cabinet handles, a gas pump, and the original signage in the exterior
Both precedents gave us good background information on how to go on about this project. With Helios Gas Station, we were able to understand how we could transform a generally characterized environmentally unfriendly gas station into a more eco-friendly building. There were many techniques that were used in the building that could be used in our projects. Bayou St. John Home, however helped us reimagine how a gas station can be turned into something functional. The wooden trusses were similar to the steel structure of our gas station, and the use of existing elements to develop the plan, such as creating a second story as well as the open floor plan and decorative features, were all very interesting that could be used in our individual designs.
There is a high chance of a decrease in irrigation and drinking water in Egypt. This is due to the exponential population growth that took place in Egypt over the past few decades. Therefore, it is assumed that the population will continue to grow explosively by the year 2050. The water demand will increase with the increase in population. This scarcity of water will also affect crops causing less food availability Another assumption is that water and air pollution will increase. Industrial waste dumped into the Nile and the high consumption of fossil-fuel-powered vehicles will contribute to the deterioration of air quality and water clarity This will decrease the overall quality of life for everyone.
Pic ure #24: Environmen al Specula ion 1 Histor ca and projected average emperature or Egyp rom 1986 o 2099 (Source The Wor d Bank Group (2021 Cl mate Risk Pro i e: Egypt)
Picture #25: Env ronmenta Specu at on 2
Spat al represen ation o SPEI across Egyp or the period 2040-2059 (lef ) and 2080-2099 r ght) under
RCP8 5 (Source : The World Bank Group 2021) C ima e R sk Prof le: Egypt)
According to our environmental techniques, tilting the canopy of the gas station to install solar panels can reduce the use of electricity powered by burning of fossil fuels to reduce the overall pollution in the air The use of green roofs will reduce the air temperature and increase the green cover in the area. The use of phytoremediation will help to decontaminate the soil and keep contaminants out of the groundwater reserve.
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Picture #26: Specula ed sec ion Sec ion show ng environmenta echniques applied on he gas s at on , ti ted canopy and green roo
Another design assumption the group came up with was using the power of Nile to generate electricity to the gas station. To achieve this, a technique was researched called ‘Wind farm’ that would be fit for our location especially after measuring the required distances between each element we need to place with consideration of the safety of the residences.
Picture #27: Wind farm techn que app icat on c TOURISTIC ASSUMPTIONS
Increased acidity of rain and sea water can destroy coral reefs which is a major attraction for snorkelers and divers. Rising sea levels will wash away beaches of coastal cities such as Alexandria. This will negatively affect tourism and in turn, the economy
The journey throughout studying and researching about this initial phase of the project was bumpy yet enjoyable. The group gained knowledge and experience more than expected. It taught us certain lessons starting from how to work in groups and exchange ideas until reaching our independable concepts. Researching and studying seemed like a sore aspect through this phase; however it was later noticeable how critical this phase was. By digging deeper in this phase, we were able to study and analyze more ideas than we ever anticipated. Our horizons expanded as we researched about the project’s aspects and importance, then dived into the environmental and climatic approaches until starting to navigate through different precedents that eventually started gluing the pieces we gathered together We were able to witness different projects around the world similar to ours and how each was implemented differently In the end, each member came with an engaging, challenging, yet unique concept, which would be built on these bits being gathered, in addition to more to come to back up our visions.
P c ure #28: Touris ic Specu at on Mean cl ma e of Hurghada or the period (1952-2005) (Source: Egyp ian Me eorolog ca Au hori y 2019 ed ted by Author
R E F E R E N C E S (APA)● Mahmoud, D., Gamal, G., & Abou El Seoud, T (2019). THE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HURGHADA CITY, EGYPT, USING TOURISM
CLIMATE INDEX. GeoJournal of Tourism and Geosites
● The World Bank Group (2021). Climate Risk Profile: Egypt
● Fahmy K. (2021, August 22). The trees of maadi: More than just a pretty face. Retrieved October 1, 2022, from https://csa-living.org/oasis-blog/the-trees-of-maadi-more-than-just-a-pretty-face
● Helios House. NADAAA. (2017, May 8). Retrieved October 1, 2022, from https://www.nadaaa.com/portfolio/helios-house/
● Twistedsifter “Artist Converts Century-Old Gas Station into Home.” TwistedSifter 10 June 2013, https://twistedsifter.com/2013/06/new-orleans-gas-station-home-conversion-robert-g uthrie/.
● Yan, A., Wang, Y., Tan, S. N., Mohd Yusof, M. L., Ghosh, S., & Chen, Z. (1AD, January 1). Phytoremediation: A promising approach for revegetation of heavy metal-polluted land Frontiers. Retrieved October 2, 2022, from https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2020.00359/full
● Dakkak |, A. (2020, August 11). Water crisis in egypt ecomena. https://www.ecomena.org/egypt-water/
● TotalEnergies accused of downplaying climate risks. (2021, October 20). BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/business-58989374
● NALDC. Retrieved October 2, 202, from https://naldc.nal.usda.gov/
● Egypt announces four-point plan to mitigate possible water crisis. (2022). Retrieved 2 October 2022, from https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2021/08/egypt-announces-four-point-plan-miti gate-possible-water-crisis
● Egypt announces four-point plan to mitigate possible water crisis. (2022). Retrieved 2 October 2022, from https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2021/08/egypt-announces-four-point-plan-miti gate-possible-water-crisis
For me, this step involved a lot of sketching and testing out various concepts, and I really enjoyed it. I was able to test out many concepts at this point, which improved how well I eliminated and combined ideas. As I made my final concentration and programme choices during this stage of the semester, it marked a turning point.
Work on the zoning, flow, and form of the building
• Underground storey for functional and cultural reasons is interesting
• Form still needs development
• Working around the existing structure is a basic threshold for the course, but form needs more creativity
• A ramp that connects the research and cultural zones
I felt restricted by the existing structure that I wanted to stick to so I did not play with the form much. However, I could have worked more on creating a complementary indooroutdoor experience that preserves most of the existing structure
Cooling tower that transforms air humidity to water Tower used to create awareness by an interactive media wall
Protruding spaces that doesn't destroy the existing structure
Work on the zoning, flow, and form of the building
• Protruding the spaces to create an interesting form
• Creating a glass pathway in the node between the existing structures is a good approach
I enjoyed working on the section and imagined the user experiences on different levels. I still needed work on the form and zoning though.
Work on concept presentation, plans, sections, elevation, 3D and space program.
• The facade needs another layer or skin to look more futuristic, the arcade language is obsolete
• Lack of innovative materials
• Better scanning/representation for the storyboard on the first poster
• More context in the site layout and use lighter colour for the streets
• People in section are out of scale
• Structure and activities for the underground storey are needed
I was proud of this phase as I came up with actual plans rather than just sketches and vision boards. I like how I utilised the space between the 2 existing structures (the canopy and the building) to create a bridge that will later connect the old and new structure. T still needed work on the futuristic presentation of my building and the functionality of the tower needed to be as important as its scale compared to the rest of the building
RESPONDING TO THE CONCEPT ARCHITECTURALLY:
Contrast by having a clean + modular building that contrasts the polluted buildings of Maadi
Use of glass to create awareness via transparency
Zones overlooking each other to create connection, curiosity, and engagement
West Elevation 1:100 South Elevation 1:100
Skylight for daylighting
Shading devices for open spaces
Hot air Cool air Atmospheric water generator system
Stack ventilation via openings in the ceiling tower
Hot air
Cross ventilation by adding inlets and outlets to each zone
Solar Panels concentrated towards the south
Hydroponic system using the treated greywater onsite Kinetic Tiles in busy zones
Phytoremediation using plants to decontaminate soil Indirect evaporative coolingvia dense vegetation
Low-flow toilets: Toilets with 1 gallon per flush (instead of 3-7 gallon) Saves water by 20% - 60%
I began to detail the project during this phase since I felt like I had done a lot of research in earlier phases, which had made this phase simpler. This is especially true for subjects on which I had previously conducted in-depth research. My initial environmental analysis produced overwhelmingly positive results, and the "negatives" were reduced without significantly altering the design in order to accommodate the project's energy requirements.
Portfolio Improvements: completed the environmental analysis (solar, light, and energy optimisation) + edited the redundant posters that didn't include the newest updates
Imagine the narrative in the building and how users interact with the project and the main problem that inspired the building.
• Focus on the narrative more and reorder the panels
• Overlay the water techniques in the section instead of putting them separately
It was my first time storyboarding and I think I will use it later on as it is easier to explain and more visually appealing. I also think it created a sequence in my mind that made it more organised and clear to present
Continue developing plans, sections, elevations and environmental analysis.
• More mature visuals are needed for the concept & studies poster
• Shading devices patterns needs to be toned down
• Scientist entrance needs a separate entrance with a small lobby and bathroom
• Circulation problems
• Structure needed for the underground storey
• Better and more contextual canopy choice
I felt like my project was almost complete at this point but I needed to do further adjustments based on the environmental analysis at it was my first time experimenting with it. I also worked on enhancing the futuristic look of the facade and added automated louvres and other development.
Ma or ty of land is consumed by vegetation
Env ronmental approaches for 2050:
Green roofs
Phytoremediat on process
Trees offer Natural shading
Trees act as sound buffer
Trees implemented on the Phytoremediat on: Eucalyptus Tree - 10 m Willow trees - 5 m
Some types of trees at Corniche El Maadi:
Trees heights range between 5-16 m
With the progression of solar ntensity, solar technologies will be implemented for 2050 such as:
Solar panels
A tilted roof
Other shading techniques
To avoid sun intensity
Adjust bu lding geometry
H gh populated area;
Traffic congestion & human overcrowdedness
Economical increment
Increment n population
Better exposure to gas stat on
Future Benefits: All surrounding buildings have more than 10 floors Self shading implemented
Analyz ng pattern language:
Study area's behavioral patterns
Implement best design approaches For users to enjoy the r experience
Use of glass to create awareness via transparency
Zones overlooking each other to create connection, curiosity, and engagement
Skylight for daylighting
Shading devices for open spaces
Hot air Cool air Atmospheric water generator system
Stack ventilation via openings in the ceiling tower
Hot air
Cross ventilation by adding inlets and outlets to each zone
Solar Panels concentrated towards the south
Hydroponic system using the treated greywater onsite Kinetic Tiles in busy zones
Phytoremediation using plants to decontaminate soil Indirect evaporative coolingvia dense vegetation
Low-flow toilets: Toilets with 1 gallon per flush (instead of 3-7 gallon) Saves water by 20% - 60%
Using matetrials that absorb the humidity in air and condenses it to water such as MOF (Metal organic frameworks) and hydrogel .
Some floors in the tower are accessible to educate people
Exaggerated height to utilize the increased humidity as altitude increases + condense to water
Futuristic digital media wall to display the status of the nile as a way of engaging the community
Treated water storage from the sewer-mining
South facade has high radiation Shading is needed in terrace
Slanted roof solar panels Shading devices
Added a double facade of solar panels to the south facing side of the tower to utilize the aready existing high radiation Unnecessary
Continue developing plans, sections, elevations and environmental analysis.
• The glass bridge should have the same importance in elevations and 3D as mochas the plan
• Play with the heights to create a more interesting elevation
• Glass pathway should be utilised more
This phase was important for making the final alterations to my building based on the environmental analysis such as adding shading and double skin façades.
Ma or ty of land is consumed by vegetation
Env ronmental approaches for 2050:
Green roofs
Phytoremediat on process
Trees offer Natural shading
Trees act as sound buffer
Trees implemented on the Phytoremediat on: Eucalyptus Tree - 10 m Willow trees - 5 m
Some types of trees at Corniche El Maadi:
Trees heights range between 5-16 m
With the progression of solar ntensity, solar technologies will be implemented for 2050 such as:
Solar panels
A tilted roof
Other shading techniques
To avoid sun intensity
Adjust bu lding geometry
H gh populated area;
Traffic congestion & human overcrowdedness
Economical increment
Increment n population
Better exposure to gas stat on
Future Benefits: All surrounding buildings have more than 10 floors Self shading implemented
Analyz ng pattern language:
Study area's behavioral patterns
Implement best design approaches For users to enjoy the r experience
Use of glass to create awareness via transparency
Zones overlooking each other to create connection, curiosity, and engagement
I had all the foundation for my project and concept at that point, and I was just working to develop it. With inquiries from the jury member expressing his interest in what I'm pitching, the jury itself went quite easily, and that meant a lot to me. The questions I got were actually really helpful because they made it easier for me to explain my idea in detail. The response I got was mostly favourable, with praise for my concept and methodology and a few suggestions for how it could be improved.
Portfolio Improvements: Final Jury resubmission (3D renders, interior shots, render video, climate consultant charts, ADA compliance poster, poster arrangement)
• Missing climate consultant charts
• Elaborate on how the building is ADA compliant
I finalised my posters for the final jury but I still needed to work more on the renderings. I like the level of detailing that I achieved in the environmental section and the tower studies.
Indirect evaporative cooling via hydroponics & green roof
Double skin roof: Primary layer is solar panels slanted towards south and secondary layer is air to water conversion
Digital interactive media wall to create awareness and community engagement
Treated grey water as connected to the sewer ming system
Solar Panels on the side facing south to maximise energy
Aquaponic Fish Pond
Mist jets & exaggerated tower height to help it humidify the air and condense it to water
Automated louvers, controlled by sensors that monitor the direction of the prevailing wind to direct the wind down the tower
Hydroponic system that is maintained using the treated grey water on site
Different building heights and protrusions for self-shading
Skylight for daylighting
Shading devices for open spaces
Stack ventilation via openings in the ceiling tower
Cross ventilation by adding inlets and outlets to each zone
Curtain walls northward for daylighting & views
Sewer-mining (greywater system)
Atmospheric water generator system
Low-Emitting Materials
Kinetic Tiles in busy zones
Indirect evaporative cooling via dense vegetation
Repurposed concrete from surrounding residential buildings that lost their use by 2050
Low-e isolate glass Recycle Bins for the community
Willow Tree for phytoremediation
Solar Panels concentrated towards the south
Hydroponic system using the treated greywater onsite
Phytoremediation using plants to decontaminate soil
Low-flow toilets: Toilets with 1 gallon per flush (instead of 3-7 gallon) Saves water by 20% - 60%
Keeping most of the preexisting steel structure
Recycled USTS to keep an essence of the old building (awareness)
Bicycle Parking (alternative transportation)
Atmospheric Water Generator System
I developed the aspects that I knew were not sufficient in the final such as highlighting the ADA compliance in a separate poster, adding climate consultant charts, and adjusting the environmental analysis.
I also improved my renderings, added interior shots that highlight the important spaces, and made a video to describe the user experience more clearly (if you would like to check it out: https://drive.google.com/drive/ folders/ 1UmwbZPecpfLuENC8XVjsthTCZcW8QFO m)
Indirect evaporative cooling via hydroponics & green roof
Double skin roof: Primary layer is solar panels slanted towards south and secondary layer is air to water conversion
Digital interactive media wall to create awareness and community engagement
Treated grey water as connected to the sewer ming system
Solar Panels on the side facing south to maximise energy
Aquaponic Fish Pond
Mist jets & exaggerated tower height to help it humidify the air and condense it to water
Automated louvers, controlled by sensors that monitor the direction of the prevailing wind to direct the wind down the tower
Hydroponic system that is maintained using the treated grey water on site
Different building heights and protrusions for self-shading
Skylight for daylighting
Shading devices for open spaces
Stack ventilation via openings in the ceiling tower
Cross ventilation by adding inlets and outlets to each zone
Curtain walls northward for daylighting & views
Sewer-mining (greywater system)
Atmospheric water generator system
Low-Emitting Materials
Kinetic Tiles in busy zones
Indirect evaporative cooling via dense vegetation
Repurposed concrete from surrounding residential buildings that lost their use by 2050
Low-e isolate glass Recycle Bins for the community
Willow Tree for phytoremediation
Solar Panels concentrated towards the south
Hydroponic system using the treated greywater onsite
Phytoremediation using plants to decontaminate soil
Low-flow toilets: Toilets with 1 gallon per flush (instead of 3-7 gallon) Saves water by 20% - 60%
Keeping most of the preexisting steel structure
Recycled USTS to keep an essence of the old building (awareness)
Bicycle Parking (alternative transportation)
Atmospheric Water Generator System
ENERGY ANALYSIS: CONSUMPTION VS GENERATED
While my building production each year is 198769.08 / 98550 = 1.51 which means an energy saving of about 150 % per year
Solar panels implemented in surfaces with highest solar radiation (based on the analysis) such as the south facade of the tower and also roofs that were tilted to maximise the gains
Utilizing new technologies as the cooling tower to direct the prevailing wind towards specific areas
Sewer-mining & atmospheric water generatorto reuse and generate the buildings own water with 90% being reused
Using kinetic tiles in zones with high human density
Replacing regular glass with with e-glass which has the lowest U value in the Egyptian market
Using only electrical equipment
Maximise on natural resources & renewable energy
CONCLUSION: renewables cover energy needs
I enjoyed making the physical model, specially that I was done with all the designing, detailing, and technicalities and I had the time to portray all the different materials and detailed openings in my project. It definitely gave me a better perspective
Working on the model physically was an interesting way to wrap it up and have. Final glimpse of what I have created. I think that imagining the landscaping physically was more amusing and easier so I might consider starting with a conceptual model to imagine the indoor-outdoor experience later on.
Openings intensified towards north to maximise ventilation and minimises towards the south facade
Automated louvers