Lamees Abdul Redha Technologies Design Project 19093151 Chosen cladding material: Brick Structural frame: Concrete Climate: Riyadh Site 4 - Island Condition
7. “Create a range of green spaces”: Green roofs for solar shading and rain absorption, palm trees withing office building in void for solar shading, public space and connection to heritage, pocket parks connected to site through views and paths for staff wellbeing, green wall to create microclimate through sunlight control in buffer zone, shaded promenade for shelter and usability by canal basin connection to outdoors. All workspaces are open to the outside with the inclusion of green spaces
3. “Prioritise site selection with good proximity to public transport”: Nearby King Abdulaziz bus stop + metro station
8. “Create Secure Places with overlooking views”: Exploiting canal views, public space green views, atrium views, All offices/ meeting rooms are glazed and have views towards the atrium or exterior with controlled glazing to prevent overheating but still allow maximum daylighting in. Riyadh Conclusions stratgies: High amounts of sunshine daylighting natural light to be exploited solar panel/ PVC use for electricity generation Shading to prevent overheating of interior spaces for thermal and visual com fort (preventing glare) Overhanging climate the office is set in. Creating comfortable environment for users. Cool air in through green roof Take advantage of canals as they cool surrounding creating microcli mate in area by shading area around canal and adding vegetation to furhter reduce temperatures. Rainwater collection: Water on roof: absorbed by plants Water on path: permeable bricks with underground drainge pumping water to canal Water on vegetation/ trees: Feeds greenery Overhanging balconies shade from rain WindHighrose:range of wind speeds, possible sand storms (ventilation openings to be equipped with air filter to prevet dust) Prevailing wind: North, omnidirectional wind pattern
1. “Prioritse placemaking that expresses identity and territory”: Traditional Islamic engravings (Mashrabiya) on façade, Ara bic calligraphy monumental shaded seating areas in greenery on site, use of palm trees for all year round shading expressing heritage and traditional shading stratgies
3. “Create places for social interaction”: Public shaded outdoor, cooled and shaded semi outdoor and indoor spaces all ther mally and visually comfortable for users, shared open ground floor space cafe, connected to offices through atrium, naturally lit through skylight with mashrabiya panels to filter light visual connection to roof terrace. Courtyards surrounded by glazing create visual connections between interior and exterior spaces inviting people to interact
7. “Provide car sharing space”: Near by car park Sustainable Communities and Social Value
Cooling: Cross ventilation could be exploited from November February and other times at night, air significantly cooler due to canal basin cooling, cross vent needs to take into account dust particles in air by installing filters in vent openings, cooling pools Sun: high exposure and minimal shadowing from surrounding will inform a highly reflective cladding material to reflect harsh rays off surface and prevent building overheating will inform shading elements in building (green roof, green wall, palm trees, brise soleil, balconies, oversetting GF, Mashrabiya panels) fabric first approach Rain strategic capturing methods: green roof (roof), permeable brick pumping back to canal (path), greenery absorbs water (strategic drainage system to tackle non existent current drainage system due to lack of rai). not worth having rain water for flushing due to little rain Temperature: large temp diff. between night and day so suitable ventilation and insulation will be required to create a habitable interior.A concrete superstructure could be used to help regulate the temperature difference inside by acting as a thermal buffer.The thermal mass would heat up in the day and release heat at night (when not occupied). It would then be cooled at night and therefore cool the interior during the day.
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WEEK 1 1.1 Appraisals: Climate & Site 1). Appraisal 2) Climate
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Sun path, views and access to street inform design decisions
Views: Inform entries (public+ service), core placement, facade glazing. Canal + parks are key views taking solar shading into consideration as well, NW facade close proximity to neighbouring building so least glazing here, location of canal docks informs cafe location as a key view + visual connection Access: Main access points of building will inform core placements + entries. Service entry/ cores in North side due to no views + no light+ nearby building, Emergency exit on NE facade onto main road for safety, main entries to building from NE, SE and SW due to views, drawing people in and indoor outdoor connections to attract traffic in quiet Surroundingarea buildings: Possible for daylight to enter from all four sides due to no party walls. Solar shading this required. shading from the NW end of day due to neibouring building, no shading from other sides. Most shading in south facades brise soleil and mashrabiya to still let air through Canal: in close proximity the cool breeze produced can help cool + humidify the surrounding area and building. Natural ventilation could be exploited to passively cool interior down at night whilst unoccupied
3D SUNLIGHT MAPPING
Observations:Summer:Sun shines on roof mostly (horizontal surfaces) Spring/ Fall: Sun shines on Horizontal + south and west facades Winter: Sun shines on South + West facades Conclusions:Greenroof to prevent overheating in summer as shading strategy Operable blinds/ slatts for shading all year long Trees for shading all year long (allows light to shine through) Site is not shaded by any surrounding building therefore shading on the east west facades To maximise daylight but minimise overheating, decidious trees, over hangs and operable blinds may be considered Summer solstice: 88.30° Spring/ Fall Equinox: 65.20° Winter solstice: 41.88° N E S W Wind: North+ north west Site key parameters: 1- No shading from surrounding buildings - develop various shading strategies 2- Site in quiet area divert traffic through sheltered public spaces 3- Incoming wind (according to wind rose) from many directions so cross ventilation can be utilized from all 4-facadesMain views from North East (NE), South East (SE) and South West (SE). North West facade as services 5- Utilize nearby canals for cooling balconies overlooking canal for users to enjoy both cool breeze and views Climate key parameters: 1- Site orientation suggests shading in all of South East and South West facades to prevent overheating and re duce gains 2- Various shading strategies to tackle 3 sun angles horizontal and vertical shading 3- Rain water harvesting to recycle water for toilet flushing 4- Taking advantage of solar energy by implementing solar panel system
Sustainable Connectivity and Transport
Sustainable Land-use and Ecology 1.” Leave a site in better ‘regenerative’ ecological condition than before development.”: Passive cooling strategies reducing overall loads (cross ventilation in winter, cooling pools, green walls and roof). Use of PVC panels to power building services (Air conditioning, ventilation, electricity), solar panel hot water heating 5- “Retain existing natural features”: Adding palm trees in atrium for greenery and connection to heritage, adds green views to indoor inhabitants + cooling pool since area surrounds greenery and water, bringing that in, Glazing allows views to surroundings. Maximizing sunlight utilization due to orientation, but preventing overheating through shading strategies, connection to outdoor spaces through multiple openings and creation of semi outdoor space
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Individual Communication (Output): Comparisons & Evaluations The different climates range from extremely cold in Moscow, extremely hot and hu mid in Bangalore and wet in Munich. Although Riyadh and Bangalore are both hot, Bangalore is extremely humid which will require different strategies for this building as opposed to Riyadh which is extremely dry. However, they are joint by the need to shade and passively cool the building since temperatures are soaring hot. Munich and Moscow however seek solar gains and heating strategies which is the complete oppo site approach to my climate.Interesting contrast between climate and site conditions, some people trying to maximise daylighting and heating strategies through solar gain, glazing and materiality choices, avoiding any forms of shading whereas I on the other hand am trying ti exploit passive cooling and shading for thermal and visual comfort.
balconies allowing for indoor outdoor living (season dependant) + shading from harsh sun Mashrabiya panels (Middle Eastern version of Jaali) to filter natural light Conclusions + stratgies: No heating required Cooling required most of year to ensure user thermal comfort Passive cooling + shading strategies to be considered to lower cooling loads Natural ventilation may be utilized from Dec Feb Create buffer zone between in and out as a sheltered open space cooled through vegeta tion (green walls+ trees) for social interaction + rest before entering air conditioned build ing. Purpose: ease temperature difference between in and out through intermediate space 25mm20151050 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 8mmMarch 0mmJuly 0mmAug 6mmNov Average Monthly rainfall in Riyadh Conclusions + stratgies: Adopt rain water collection + drainge where possible to recycle incoming rain water for flushingOverhanging balconies+ recessed ground floor as a rain shelter Wind: North+ north west Building without shading stratgies Intense sunlight permeates through and heats building increasing cooling loads Cooling strategies: cooling pools, rise in cool air to spread across of fices in atrium cooling overall space, water creates moist environment tackling dry unhumid
Cooling strategies: Cooling from both the canal and on site cooling pool to reduce loads and crete comfortable environment for users Wind rose
Cooling costs: High cooling cost due to hot arid climate External sun protection reduces the cooling energy demand by 20%. Reducing g-value of the glazing from 0.3 to 0.2 creates a saving of 10%. A 5cm insulation layer and a reduced glazing percentage reduce the cooling energy demand by around 10% compared to a non-insulated outer wall. A reduced glazing percentage combined with a very efficient sun protection system and intensive night ventilation – can cut the cooling energy demand by almost 30%.
Hours of sunshine in MonthRiyadhMonthpersunhoursdailyAverage Average hourly temperature in
4. “Provide high quality pedestrian links to local amenities”: Pedestrian path connecting from main street to bus and metro stop, leading to office, wrapping around office to canal basin and green spaces
3) Site Key sections: Spring/Fall/ Winter: shading through palm trees, overhanging balconies clad ded with Mashrabiya panels to filter light Summer: shading through green roof to reflect sun off surface Use highly reflective cladding material to reflect heat off building surface
Views: Main oviews overlook the canal and gardens on the South East and South West facades. To minimize gains on each sides accessible balconies were places with mashrabiya panels to create oppertunity of a habitable outdoor ‘buffer’ space as well as glazing for views for user experience and wellbeing. Cafe overlooks canal providing visual comfort and rest space for employees and public. Buffer space also places on SE and SW facades so users can interact with that intermediate space as well as from the interior with the views.
2. “Provide responsive local controls e.g. opening windows, or local control”: All offices have access to natural light from the outside with access to operable blinds, incorporation of traditional operable Mashrabiya slats in balcony, the ventilation and air conditioning system is human controlled based on preference to ensure optimum thermal comfort of space
Good Health and Wellbeing
Sustainable Water Cycle 1. “Provide Low flow fittings and appliances”: water-controlled toilet appliances (sensor controlled to reduce waste)
1. “Provide spaces with strong visual connection to outside”: All the workspaces have views or access to the outside through glazing and threshold shaded balconies, the office space is centred around an atrium that allows natural light in and is shaded by the Mashrabiya on top of the glazing, as well as a central palm tree, focus on the well-being of employees by ensuring connectivity of spaces to the outside and maximising natural light with solar gain control to ensure thermal and visual comfort
Most of the other sites have surroundings buildings that shade theirs, or partying walls minimizing glazing opportunities. They would therefore have to look into other day lighting strategies to obtain natural light in their interior. However, in comparison to my site the challenge will be maximising daylighting and shading strategies finding a balance between both in my sunny climate. Cross ventilation could be an issue in the corner site due to air pollution as poor air quality may heavily impact the measurement of health and well being of employees in the office therefore operable window place ments need to be assessed.
7. “Prioritise maximum use of onsite renewables appropriate to context”: PVC panels that supplies 1/10 of the energy loads. Solar panels are utilised to heat water through pipe water heating in the roof, solar cooling
Simple interior views Balcony with views to canal and outside vegetation. Palm trees border site as part of shading strategy all year round. Over hanging floor slab and adjustable Mashrabiya panels shade whilst allowing some light through depending on user needs. Green wall + palm trees as a passive cooling method to reduce temperature of balcony and create buffer between outside hot temperature and inside cool temperature. Mashrabiya creates aesthetic feature in balcony with islamic patterns engraved in creating strong hertiage connection to Riyadh islamic culture.
3. “Fine tune internal environment with efficient mechanical systems”: cooling energy produced by PVC electricity to power AC, heat ex changer to produce cool air, operable mechanical ventilation for toilets and kitchen, operable lighting to fine tune environment, operable blinds and mashrabiya for controlled shading
Ground floor plan First floor plan Summer passive cooling where hot air rises and gets re placed with cool air from the pools. The open atrium allows cool air to spread through the open office plan Winter passive cooling where windows can be opened to utilize cross ventilation since temperatures are more tolera ble. Open skylight can eliminate the need for Air condition ing and building can fully rely on cross ventilation winter, main source of
6. “Create Sustainable Urban Drainage that supports natural aquatic habitats and human amenity”: Drainage channels border the exterior of the building minimising flood risks
2. “Prioritise Fabric First principles for building form and envelope”: concrete for thermal mass (the denser the better) to trap heat and release it at night when building is not in use, brick façade for cavity layer to trap heat in and keep coolness within building. Brick retains heat, acts as a ‘heat store,’ brick stores and very slowly releases heat over time.
Natural lighting: Maximising glazing for natural lighting and optimising shading strategies to prevent solar gain and heating through 1) Overhangs 2) Traditional operable Mashrabiya shading panels on the East West facades. Green roofs were placed to reflect harsh run rays from being transmitted to building interior and cool rather than heat, whilst still allowing natural light to enter atrium but shading it with a mashrabiya panel and placing palm tree in atrium for optimum shading.
During
daylight is through facade glazing. Winter sun is low enough to penetrate through overhangs Summer sun’s angle is almost directly on top of the roof - therefore skylight shading is necessary to prevent over heating 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 1- Public Cafe 2- Co working space 3- Pool seating 4- Kitchen and storage 5- Janitor room and riser 6- Communal toilet 7- Fire escape and protected lobby 8- Lift 9- Dry riser 10- Open staircase 11- Buffer zone 21 2222 22 21- Service entry 22- Main entries 23- Fire escape 23 6 Key: 12 13 14 1515 16 5 6 7 8 12- Pantry 13- Co working space 14- Client meeting nooks 15- Meeting rooms 16- Rest area 17- Balcony 6 17 Core partially blocks canal views Typical office core lack of spatial connections Doesnt face views, quiet street for service entry Core blocks from park views Atrium facing North recieves least light Ideal core placement to recieve all year round Faces facade that recieves most light may overheat Faces facade that recieves most light may overheat Core Atriumiterationsiterations 4) Cooling diagrams through atrium Fire EmployeeStaffescapecirculationcirculation Ground floor plan First floor plan
3) Core + atrium iterations4) Iso 1: shading, trees, openings, access, 5) Circulation
Ventilation and air quality: Mechanical ventilation is needed for the toilets and brewing stations for air recovery and user comfort. Passive cooling methods are utilized to lower overall cooling loads and provide more natural cool air sourcing such as cooling pools with cool breezes rising through atrium to office spaces, cross ventilation in the winter months (when outdoor temperature is cool) and use of vegetation to create a micro climate in the inside and buffer space through evotranspiration.
WEEK 1 1.2 Environmental Strategies - Massing, Form, Arrangement 1). Initial Creative Drivers 2) Annotated Drawings (1:200)
Individual Communication (Output): Comparisons & Evaluations
Safety: Fire safety consideration according to Part K and B is a key driver that informed the plan. A protected lobby and fire escape that has direct access to the street has been prioritized and used to shape the building arrangement. The fire escape on the ground floor and staircase on the upper floors all direct users to the street outside.
1) Inital plans (1:200) (adjusted to fit page) Environmental sections
3. “Design spaces to adaptive thermal comfort standards”: Cooling pools in center of atrium for cool air to rise in offices and stack effect in winter, cross ventilation where possible (in winter and at night), Evaporative cooling using green roof and cooling pools Net Zero Operational Carbon
Accessibility: Main entrance is accessible from the NE, SE and SW facades as a way of utilizing the green space and creating a promenade in the garden near site. Way to drive traffic in building within the quiet area and put greenspaces/ parks into use by conencting them with the building program/ accessibility. The creation of mini buffer spaces between the building and outdoors is to create a sheltered cooled space through slatted green walls as a transition from outside inside to mediate between the sharp temperature difference experienced by ensuring thermal comfort.
Live loads on the building are the varying wind, rain and human forces exerted on the building that are transferred down from the floor slab beams columns foundation - ground.
Climate resistant facade: Mashrabiya panels, aluminium cladding to reflect light and protect concrete. Brick as it is poor conductor of heat, dust proof. Dust ptoofing in openings and air purifiyer for dust proofing + healthy air quality. Light reflecting interior to not absorb heat. Light reflecting facade to reflect light and not absorb heat
Pad foundations: Althought the building is not placed on a sandy desert site, it still needs deeper foundations. Therefore, pad foundations provide support for structures, transferring their load to layers of soil or rock that have sufficient bearing capacity. They are characterized by high load capacities and corrosion resistance. Pads are an essential component of many construction projects because they can provide a strong, sturdy foundation for a structure regardless of soil quality or harsh environment.
Although steel frame provides a more lightweight structure that is faster to construct, it is really expensive and the maintenance costs more than another wall system. During the construction phase, they require more glass and aluminum to construct than a window-wall system, therefore not providing much architectural merit. It is interesting to note how cli mates like Munich and Moscow inhabit the same thermal protection of the interior retain ing the heat whilst Bangalore and Riyadh retain coolness which can be achieved by using highly dense materials with high thermall mass such as concrete and brick. A climate in Munich has used a brick facade - with perforations for its thermal properties and abaility to ventilate similarly to a climate in Bangalore who used the same materials and strategies. These universal tactics could be used anywhere with minor alterations to better suit the climate. For example in Moscow, due to extremely low temperatures, doubling ot tripling the amount of insulation compared to Bangalore or Riyadh in order to further trap heat in, however still benefit from the thermal mass of concrete equally the same way. In Riyadh and Bangalore, insulation amounts as low as 50mm suffice as long as there is no thermal bridge allowing heat to seep into the cool building. This is the opposute for Munich and Moscow, where increased insulation mean more energy efficiency. Net Zero Embodied Carbon Emissions
1). Initial Creative Drivers Comparisons & Evaluations
Thermal mass: Absorb solar gain in day and release it at night and cool environment during the day as it has cooled down and released all the heat at night. This creates a more comfortable internal environment as it will slow the thermal gradient change and reduce temperature fluctuations by acting as a thermal buffer.
Concrete columns: 150x150mm square shaped with a 5-6m distance between each column (see grid).
Aluminium laser cut Mashrabiya screen (operable): Keeps heat out, light reflective, durable, long life span
Wall U value: 0.16W/m^2K Onsite construction: Concrete frame, secondary steel support for glazing and mashrabiya panels, concrete foundation Prefabricated elements: Aluminium Mashrabiya
Concrete beams: 150x300mm. Supports the building’s floors, roof, walls and cladding. Beams are the horizontal load-bearing members of the frame able to withstand horizontal and ver tical loads. Reinforced concrete (RC) beams made by encasing steel bars, plates, or fibers within the concrete.
Pad foundations: 2m depth, 200x200mm. Loads transferred from RC columns to the foundations to ground. Foundation depth may vary depending on soil type on site.
9. “Detailing to be Long life and robust”: long life brick cladding, aluminium offers excellent durability. Its resistance to wind and other elements means that you are left with a strong, long-lasting solution, the unyielding nature of concrete makes it a durable, long-lasting material choice. It resists erosion, fire, rotting, rusting, and weathering with relative ease, requiring minimal maintenance and repair. Sustainable Life Cycle Cost 3. “Measure energy costs”: Energy cooling demand of: 150-200 KWh/m^2a. Reduced glazing percentage with efficient sun protection system and intensive night ventilation can cut the cooling energy demand by 30%. The glazing should have a sun protection coating.
4. Prioritise low embodied carbon and healthy materials: Brick’s durability and longevity allows its embodied energy to be dissipated over many years leading to a low carbon footprint.
Reduction in energy loads by utilizing passive strategies, maximising use of natural resources and renewable energy Low-carbon aluminium refers to primary aluminium made with 100 % renewable energy. Aluminium is a highly circular and fully recyclable material, which has significant potential to reduce product emissions.
The floor slabs overhang by 1.5m and does not need addi tional support as the structure is sturdy and can handle the loads exerted on it. build Green roof build up Plan
Air crete interior blocks: high strength, durable, light weight, fast to construct. H+H aircrete is made from a mix containing cement, lime and pulverised fuel ash (PFA) and a dash of aluminium powder, ability to store heat and release at night, structural, environmentally friendly (compensating for use of concrete), durable
2ii) General Arrangement (Plan and Elevation/ Section)
Live LateralReactionDeadloadsloadsloads 5m 6m 6m 6m6m6.5m Service core Canterlever Section 5 Floor Cieling
6. Measure added value of occupant health and wellbeing Visual and physical connections of building through atrium, vegetation where possible for improved air quality and creation of microclimateCoolingpools for thermal comfort as a passive strategy, creation of Qasabah as traditional Islamic architecture feature acting as a buffer zone between in and out in the ground floor – reduces temp through green wall slats, nearby vegetation and canal cooling, balcony for employees that overlooks views, shaded by overhang, palm trees and adjustable Mashrabiya panels
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2iii) Skin - Elemental Build Up (Axo/ Isometric)
4. “Measure management and maintenance costs”: Air conditioning maintanence annually, lift maintanence quarterly. Carry out regular visual inspections of the wall. Ensure a minimum of 95% wall coverage has live plants at all times. Tend to the plants, including any replacements—up to 100% if necessary. Top up the nutrients tank when needed. PVC system service maintanance between two and four times per year, roof and gutter maintanence cleaning
Construction system: Concrete fram (columns, beams and floor slab) Materials: Brick cladding, triple glazing windows and doors, Aluminium Mashrabiya shutters for shading Brick Low thermal conductivity, prevents from overheating due to ability to store heat and release it overnight Cavity wall: Damp prevention and fire safety, slows movement of heat through walls retaining interior coolness.
Spray foam insulation: High R value, fire retardent, great acoustic properties (even though office is in a quiet area), keeps cool air in and prevent hear from entering
Longevity: Although concrete has a high carbon footprint, in return it has a long life span along with the other building materials chosen. The building could be reused in the future which is less costly than recycling. Due to concrete’s high thermal mass and ability to store heat and re emit it at night, this could reduce the building’s overall energy loads massively especially since many shading strategies were taken into consideration
2iv) Skin - Typical Build-ups & Zones
Fire resistance: Concrete provides the best fire resistance of any building material. It does not burn, it cannot be ‘set on fire’ like other materials in a building and it does not emit any toxic fumes, smoke or drip molten particles when exposed to fire. An individ ual brick offers high levels of heat resistance, with the ability to withstand a maximum temperature of 1200°C. A commonly-cited reason as to why bricks have such a high fire-resistance rating is because they are usually made in a fire kiln. The walls of the core (200mm width) have a fire resistance time of +4hrs which conforms to building regulations part B. Aircrete: To tackle the high temperatures and solar radiation in Riyadh, thicker outer walls with high thermal mass are preferred as they serve as a an insulating barrier. The building will have loadbearing aircrete blocks that will be supported by concrete beams. The main advantage of the thicker walls and cavity walls would be the thermal and sound insulation, and ability to store heat for sun rays and re emit it at night when the building is not habitable. However, the cost and con- struction time will increase. The layer of air in the cavity being non-conductor of heat, and reduces the transmission of heat from the external face to internal one.
Shear walls in core: Reinforced concrete wall to provide lateral and torsional strength, stability, and stiffness to a building. Easy to construct and easily implemented at the site. Lightweight thin walls. Effective in minimizing earthquake damage in structural and non-structural elements.
1.3 Appraisals: Construction, Materials & Structures WEEK 1
7. “Promote use of local natural materials”: Mashrabiya – Aluminium panels laser cut prefab, concrete, brick, prefabricated aluminium Mashrabiya and facade panels produced locally
The dead load from the weight of a building’s structural el ements, such as beams, walls, roof and structural flooring componentsis transferred from the roof, to the concrete frame (beams and columns, down to the the concrete foun dation to the soil. This creates an opposite reaction from the soil to the structure.
2i) Structural Design (Axo/ Isometric)
I have chosen concrete as my structure due to its high thermal mass and ability to store heat during the day, and re emit it at night when the building is not habitable. Regardless of its high carbon footprint, it in return will significantly reduce energy loads by trapping in the incoming heat from its all year harsh sun. So in the long term the carbon loads will pay off elsewhere. A brick facade was chosen to accompany a concrete structure due to its high therml mass as well as a dense structure is crucial for maintining a cool interior environment that is thermally comfortable for users. Concrete also absorbs incoming cool air from air condioners and emits it making the ground cool as well.
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North East West Elevation West Elevation East Elevation
Elevation North
South
Summary: Personal Response 2) Annotated isometric or perspective view. Annotated Key Elevation Drawings (1:200)
In order for the Bangalore building in the infill site to fully maximise natural lighting, an atrium and perhaos glass curtain walling system is needed for sun to penetrate deeply into the floorplate and naturally light the space up. However, this has to be accompanied with abundant shading stratgies to prevent overheating and an increase in energy loads as a result. Therefore jaalis and overhangs would be useful to create that balance. The building in Moscow should take maximum advantage of solar gains to passively heat through the use glass. Accompanies by thick layers on insulation, an atrium skylight should be considered so direct light can penetrate through all year around, and to have solar gains from both the facade and roof. Other strategies like a ground source heat pump could be useful however, that would require a basement floor which would signif icantly increase costs, construction time and carbon footprint due to the concrete walls that are needed as part of the structure.
1.4 Initial Integrative Building Concept 1)
WEEK 1 Individual Communication (Output): - Tesing deep windows to see to what extent it would self shade against harsh summer sun - Testing various proposed shading strategies focused on the SE-SW facades to see whether it is balanced between over and under lit ensuring both thermally and visually comfortable environment - preventing glare and overheating (which leads to increase in cooling loads) - Offsetting ground floor by 1.5 m on SE-SW facades as a shading stretgy against harsh sun rays. - Skylight for sun rays to penetrate across all floor plate balancing that with appropriate local shading strategies (Mashrabiya and palm trees) by unifying local heritage and creation of green spaces in interior - Mashrabiya panels as a tool to filter incoming natural light allowing indirect light into office spaces solving glare issue - Use of spray foam insulation to provide some acoustic insulation - not much is required due to area being quiet - Open office plan and building encouraging social interaction and connectivity with quiet nooks/ rooms if needed therefore not much emphasis on acoustic insulation. Some sound absorbing elements like greenry and cooling pools. No need for sound insulation from outside due to quiet neighbourhood - Cooling pools as passive strategy to lower overall cooling loads and emulating local context (canal) Study Methodology: - Maximising use of available passive strategies such as cooling pools, GSHP, cross ven tilation, skylight to draw natural light in, atrium for continuous air flow to lower overall energy loads, create a healthy mindful working environment for users and redefining typical office spaces. Strategies will be further considered to assess viabilty - A Micro-climate is essential to maintain while designing in the hot and humid climate as striking and heating of building surface can be considerably reduced by designing a proper landscape. It can also act as a buffer for restricting noise, traffic, sun, and heat. The temperature of micro-climate can be reduced around the structure and in the site through the evapotranspiration phenomenon as the shade can be created through land -scaping.Solving the massive temperature difference between interior and exterior temperature through the creation of intermediate buffer zone - and creation of microclimate through extensive use of vegetation (palm trees and green wall) and shading to reduce overall temperature and create habitable public socialising space outside work realm overlook ing surrounding views + connecting to surrounding scape - Incorporating active strategies to enhance the thermal, visual and energy performace of the building through VAC (ventilation and air conditoning) system for the year long extreme heat, solar panels generating electrcity for building offsetting carbon footprint, rain water harvesting for toiket flushing and GSHP - Visual and physically connected spaces through atrium, staircase wrapping around atrium, balcony buffer on each floor connecting to outdoors and glazed private rooms to sustain healthy working lifestyle for users.
Comparisons & Evaluations
- Use of concrete and brick due to the high thermal mass and ability to store heat and re emit it at night when building is not in use significantly lowering buildings energy loads regardless of its high embodied energy strategies to sequester that will be further -consideredAbundant use of greenery in desert to create oasis by canal drawing people into quiet area as a strategy extending beyond realm of project - Having asssesed the posibility of creating a habitable roof top and populating it with a defined program however the space would be too hot most of the year and after access ing the financial factors to consider the idea was not viable or feasable. However, since it is a green roof and has a lift access users can use the space freely when the weather allows it and can enjoy the architectural element of greenery and surrounding views.
Annotated Typical Section Drawing (1:200) Annotated Typical Section Drawing (1:50)
Thumbnail interior and exterior views at eye level
2.1i Iterative Testing - Environmental Performance: Glazing Amount 1) Quantitative Testing Iteration 1 - (Benchmark 100%) 100% glazing on all facades WEEK 2 Parameter Values Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Glazing : wall ratio = 100% Glass : distribution (as drawn)= 1:1 Performance Results Intensity Value Check: -GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)79176+LossesOverlitbuilding, need to reduce glazing on all facades for vuser visual comfort and to prevent glare Next steps: - Reduce glazing by 50% and see impact on lighting level - Indicate roof/ floor overhangs as shad ing element Performance Results Energy OverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load34330113119965lit2%lit33%lit65% Iteration 2 50% glazing on all facades Parameter Values Glass U-value = ? W/m2K Wall U-value = ? W/m2K Glazing : wall ratio = 50% Glass : distribution (as drawn)= 1:2 Performance Results Intensity Value Check: -Comment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)79149+LossesIncreaseinunderlit spaces due to glazing -reductionIncrease in well lit areas and decrease in overlit areas by reducing glazing amount - Reduction in lighting, cooling and heating loads with efficient glazing placement as overheating is reduced without the expense of decreased daylighting Performance Results Energy -NextOverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load29005557371218?%lit40%lit43%steps:Verticalwindows to a lot light in but prevent overheating - Include openings in North facade where core is to reduce lighting needs there - Reduce glazing to 25% to see if cooling loads decrease in return Iteration 3 25% glazing on all facades Parameter Values Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Glazing : wall ratio = 25% Glass : distribution (as drawn)= 1:4 Performance Results Intensity Value Check: Comment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)79148+Losses - Underlit center of floor plate creating need for skylight - Decrease in overlit areas suggesting verti cal windows reduces overheating levels and improves visual comfort of area - Decrease in well lit areas suggesting light needs to penetrate to underlit areas (center) through sky light - Massive reduction in heating loads - Slight reduction in lighting and cooling loads suggesting reducing more glazing could act opposite to intended result
-NextOverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load28050769996lit40%lit34%lit27%steps:Needforskylight as light penetrates through 6m into floor plate, the rest of the 6 meters inbetween remain -underlitIntegrate glazing in core programs to reduce lighting loads there
The well lit areas at 50% glazing was the highest amounts here, but only in the corners and center of the building due to no direct light penetration suggesting shading strate gies should be employed to maintain the well lit areas but reduce the direct light close to glazing to ensure a visually comfortable environment for employees, making sure each space is occupiable.
2) Vertical windows create the most well lit spaces and regulate light in the most, espe cially around the glazing but in return majorly reduces light penetration in central floor plate therefore a middle ground and balance has to be reached between vertical win dows and external shading to ensure some light can penetrate through to the center but not at the expense of the visual comfort of users sitting nearby windows 3) Perhaps adding a skylight and experimenting with that and an atrium would bring in light to the center and having vertical windows would create a balance and majorlly well lit space 4) Having to experiment with increased glazing in the N facades and reducing the glaz ing abit in all other 3 facades to reach a medium ground and maximising the most well lit spaces 5) Experimenting with different shading strategies in order to optimise and control incom ing light
Comparisons & Evaluations
The solar radiation in Riyadh and Bangalore is high, therefore the build ings there need extensive shading devices to control the incoming sunlight penetration into floor plate. A balance needs to be found with glazing to reduce overlit areas close to openings and underlit areas deep inside floor plates. This can be extremely difficult with Bangalore’s infill site as it only has North and South facades exposed, either being overlit or underlit on opposite ends. A balance can be reached by placing a skylight towards the North for light to penetrate through there, with minimal glazing on South compared to North. The Island condition in Munich would highly benefit from solar gains and daylighting due to abundant exposure to natural light with all 4 exposed facades. However, lighting levels should be optimum and not overlit in order to maintain a visually comfortable environment for users and to prevent glare in the work space, therefore some shading may be necessary.
1) Glazing and light loads are not dependent of one another, external factors play a role instead
Performance Results Energy
Proposed Test: Parameter Test Glazing Amount (Evenly) Amount of glazing = ?% (e.g. 100%) Amount of glazing = ?% (e.g. 50%) Amount of glazing = ?% (e.g. 25%)
Conclusions
Expected Results
Having set the benchmark at 100%, and fully glazing the facade, I expected the cooling loads to be at its highest, with the space mostly overlit making it visually uncomfortable to users (as the sun is really bright in Riyadh and the chances of glare occuring is common and has to be dealt with in design of spaces). Therefore making it the “worst case” in terms of environmentak performance. I aniticpated the lighting loads to be the least since most of the space would be overlit and not in need of artificial lighting. The only antici pated underlit area would be the lift shaft since there is no glazing there. By reducing the glazing level down to 50%, the space would be mostly well lit therefore reducing the overall cooling loads (as there is no excess sunlight thus reducing solar gain chances). The center of the floor plate would be the most well lit area as direct light can only penetrate 6m through a floor plate leaving the center well lit and visually comfort able. Halfing the glazing amount each time would hopefully allow me to reach a middle ground in understanding how much glazing the office would need by drastic reduction of glazing each time. When reducing the glazing amount to 25%, the underlit areas would decrease (especially in the middle of the floor plate due to no light penetration). The area surrounding the glazing border would be well lit and only little areas right nect to windows would be overlit (with the overlit percentage being the lease). Cooling loads would be the least here due to minimal solar gain and penetration through space, and lighting loads would be the most. Observed Results 100%: Mostly overlit due to maximum sun penetration, leading to maximum cooling loads because of solar gain. The lighting loads were also quite high suggesting that cra zy glazing amounts dont necessarily reduce lighting loads in some parts of the building moreover at night for instance. There was Constant reduction of glazing continuously reduced all of the heating, cooling and lighting needs (ironically), I predicted lighting loads to increase at 25% due to it having the majority of underlit areas, and no light pen etration there. The intensity value check at 25% glazed was the least, but not so different than 50% glazed, this was because glazing was added in some areas of the core (where glazing could be added) reducing the underlit spaces there with the increase in well lit spaces around the SE area the most
Iteration 3 - SE, SW and NE reduced Screen Grabs/ Diagram Parameter Values Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Glazed wall : solid wall ratio =1:5 Glass : distribution (as drawn)= South, East, West reduced Performance Results Intensity Value Check:
- Sefaira results dont take into account overall passive cooling strategies in building (cooling pools, vegetation, cross ventilation, concrete core) that can lower overall cool ing loads by 30% therefore this point is of importance to consider when assessing building energy perfomance
- Reduction of glazing and cooling gains are directly proportional decreasing glazing decreases cooling loads due to decrease in solar gain and heat build up in building
- Decreasing glazing and heating loads are inversely proportional however Riyadh is a hot climate all year round and does not require heating in winter as coldest temper ature is only 14 degrees celsius
IncreaseOverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load267622462375lit23%lit49%lit28%inheating loads due to glaz ing reduction model does not take into account the hot climate that does not require heating therefore this value is insignificant. Increase in underlit areas around atrium suggests increase in SE glazing is crucial
2.1ii Iterative Testing - Environmental Performance: Glazing Distribution 1) Quantitative Testing Iteration 1 - Evenly distributed Screen Grabs/ Diagram WEEK 2 Parameter Values Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Glazed wall : solid wall ratio = 1:3 Glass : distribution (as drawn)= Even ly distributed Performance Results Intensity Value Check: Comment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)79152+LossesUnderlitincore in toilet and elevator Well lit in the center + SE sides Overlit in SE side (by the windows) pos sible shading strategies to be implemented to for visual and thermal comfort or glaz ingReducereductionSW glazing as it is mostly overlit Performance Results Energy OverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load26762570649lit12%lit27%lit61% Iteration 2 - South west reduced Screen Grabs/ Diagram Parameter Values Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Glazed wall : solid wall ratio = 1:4 Glass : distribution (as drawn)= South reduced Performance Results Intensity Value Check: IncreaseComment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)79144+Lossesinwell lit areas, SW side still over lit and may create visually uncomfortable environment for users Reducing openings reduces views and visual connection to outdoors, therefore finding a middle ground glazing amount is imperative. Shading on the SE and SW fa cades can be implemneted to regulate solar penetration into interior space as well as to create a visually and thermally comfortable environment. Performance Results Energy CoolingOverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load267621464397lit12%lit55%lit33%loadsdoes not take into consid eration passive cooling methods (pools + vegetation) therefore the loads would be less in reality Major decrease in underlit areas due to placing more glazing in the services core
Energy
Conclusions - Reducing glazing as a next step will only lead to the central floor plate getting more and more under lit therefore, mediating between increased glazing on SE facade but providing shading as a next step of testing in order to identify a middle ground and still maintain a well lit area throughout the whole floor plate.
- Shading strategies such as: palm trees, Mahrabiya panels, brise soleils will be con sidered and tested as a next step in order to reach a middle ground and overall well lit floor plate
- Heating is not required in Riyadh due to high average temperatures all year round so that load can be ignored
Comparisons & Evaluations It is not recommended to have higher then 25% glazing for Bangalore due to intense sun penentration. 20-25% should suffice in order to maintain a well lit floor plate. A skylight could be added, and in the case of the infill site it could be places towards north of the roof so sunlight can penetrate through that underlit area. In the case of Munich (end site), East, West and north facades were exposed, which caused a ma jority of overlit space. As the west facade glazing would increase, overheating would increase due to harsh evening sun. Therefore by reducing west glazing and shading it with overhangs, an optimum level of well lit space was reached. The central floorplate however remains mostly underlit due to sun penetration not being able to penetrate more than 6m in. Therefore strategies like placing light shelves or even a skylight and open atrium would solve that.
DecreaseComment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)14279+Lossesinoverlit areas around SE side worked however at the expense of making the atrium area underlit therefore having glazing there but controlling the sun pen etration through various strategies could be an alternative option to reach a middle Lightingground loads stayed the same whilst cool ing loads decreased due to decreased glaz ing meaning decrease in solar gain and pro duction of heat in building Performance Results
Proposed Test: Parameter Test Glazing/ Wall Distribution Distribution of glazing = Evenly distributed Distribution of glazing = South westeduced Distribution of glazing = South east and South west reduced Expected Results
- Iteration 3 caused the underlit areas to increase due to further reduction of SE glazing - therefore glazing should be readded but regulated by shading to prevent overlighting by boundaries however still create a well lit area in atrium deep into floor plate
Observed Results
Majority of overlit area came from the South facades (as expected), therefore adjust ing the glazing on either of the SW and SE facades was crucial to understand which facade recieves most sun penetration and causes over lit areas in floor plate. Mediating the sun penetration and creating well lit floor plate is crucial for users visual and ther mal comfort - as well as the regulating the buildings energy performance. Reduction is SW and SE glazing is expected to create a more well lit environment re ducing overlit areas. This therefore should reduce overall cooling loads since there is less sun penetration in floor plate meaning less heat production and need for cooling in return. Overall lighting loads between iteration 1+2 will increase due to reduction in glazing however there will be an increase in well lit area in return.
Program: Public ground floor space Weather: cloudy/ gloomy day Spatial quality aim : dull, mundance, to show importance of natural lighting (when possible) Environmental advantage: Green wall CO2 sequester
Program: Office rest space Time of day: Morning Spatial quality aim : vibrant, interactive Environmental advantage: Light reflecting reducing lighting
Having an open plan surrounding by an atrium makes a space feel open and connected to one another, whilst maintaining the specific program of the allocated space. The view is taken from a rest/ break area overlooking the circulation and parts of the working area and balcony and ground floor. This exemplifies the advantage of open plan offices along with an atrium as it makes the user feel like its part of an interlinked community. Spaces as such encourage interactions and conversations with one another whether its across the floor or down below the atrium.
Program: Office rest space Time of day: Evening Spatial quality aim : Time to go back home
Exploring how two different types of days may affect the activity and program of the space to better understand how to accomodate for users needs. On a sunny day, users are more encouraged to interact with the program due to the way it feels when sun hits the surface. A light reflecting interior with reflective materiality (porcelien tiles and glazing, water for example) creates that bridge between inside and outside and bringing a bit of the outside in. The greenery is also en hanced as light shines through inviting users to appreciate the affect.
Program:.
Balcony Time of day: Mid day Spatial quality aim : open, social, interactive Environmental advantage: greenery offsetting Balconycarbon acting as a buffer space between interior and exterior, with mediated temperature from green wall that creates a micro climate. Space invites users to interact with the views both to the outside (canal, parks) and to inside the office through glazed doors.
Program: Co working office space Time of year: Winter Spatial quality aim : Light reflecting white interior Environmental advantage: Reducing lighting loads
Having interior glazed walls for the meeting rooms allow for that visual connection to still be there whilst maintaing privacy through sound insulation - this correlated back to the intial aim of this office space which is to enhance spatial, physical and visual connectivity of spaces and people. Program: Co working office space Time of year: Summer Spatial quality aim : Light reflecting white interior more vibrant in summer due to more intense light Environmental advantage: Reducing lighting loads
Exterior view of building showing context in which building sits in and the environment that users are surrounded by. Palm trees create a promenade along the canal encouraging activity by giv ing shelter from harsh sun. The area would be significantly cooler due to palm trees shading the promenade and cool breezes from canal
2.2i Iterative Testing - Environmental Quality: ‘Spatiality’ + Materiality 1) Qualitative Testing Interior + Exterior Perspective Views WEEK 2
Program:loadsExterior view Time of day: Mid day Spatial quality aim : open, social Environmental advantage: greenery offsetting carbon Program: Public ground floor space Weather: Sunny day Spatial quality aim : encourages activity, lightness, interaction Environmental advantage: Green wall CO2 sequester Choosing a majority of white and reflecting interior materiality plays a huge role in making the space feel bigger and airer. This could relate back to improving daylighting and natural light, reflecting materials such as porcelien tiles reflect incoming light at different levels during different times of the year (depending on the intensity of sunlight).
2) Annotated Typical Bay Isometric 1:50/ 1:20 Spatial intentions, aims and thought to be met: - Maximising natural light through increased glazing and balancing to cre ate visually comfortable environment with abundant shading stragies like Mashrabiya, overhangs and palm trees as well as having artificial lighting and creating a balance in visual atmosphere between both (closeup of -shading)Suspended cieling unit with central air conditoning and ventilation system for a thermally comfortable environment in the hot climate, in addition to passive cooling strategies perdominant one being cooling pools to lower overall cooling loads and instil natural cooling strategies. (closeup + an notation) Passive: Vegetation creating Open,microclimateairy,naturally lit space with Stackskylighteffect, cross ventilation and cooling pools Active strategies: VAC, ground source cooling Solar panel power and fire sprinklersLightreflecting materiality of indoors and outdoors to reflect incoming sunlight into space. Shading strategies prevent harsh penetration by filtering incoming sunlight preventing overheating and lowering over all cooling loads. Rain water harvesting and purification system and condensate reuse sys tem collects runoff water from roof provides water for grey water (toilet flushing). This is a self sufficient and symbiotic element of the building.
Atrium: Provides visual connection through openness, physical connec tion through staircase connecting to all floors, reflecting incoming sunlight through all floor plates, needed for cooling pool rise in cold air and cool breezes across floor plate which decreases loads, enhanced healthy en vironment and well being for employees through natural light and natual cooling. Increased travel of sound solved by acoustic properties of green wall on staircase - ability to absorb sound and lower temperature. Qui et meeting rooms are available for privacy however visual connection is maintained through glazing. Atriums create a greater flexibility in open work spaces and saves money in terms of efficient to have everyone in one room in terms of utility bills and office supplies. For example, fewer walls means reduced cost of materials and time used to create the workspace. This compensates for the extra office space that wouldve been made from existing atrium space. Use of concrete in the frame has a high level of embodied energy, however a highly dense construction in a hot climate is preferred due to it’s ability to absorb and store heat and re emit it at night (when building is not in use). Concrete it also locally sourced in Riyadh reducing overall transportation costs and time, which comepensates for the increased construction time on Bricksite.
3) Annotated Isometric Drawings
Balcony layers: Glass outer railing Steel anchor fixing bolted into concrete slab Steel stop supporting profile 12mm tempered glass Operable Mashrabiya blinds: Secondary steel support system fixed to concrete slab 75x75mm Vertical steel rail attatched to secondary steel support system Pool floor layers: 20mm Tiled sidewalls and floor 20mm Screen Slip resistant aqua bond membrane Steel stiffners Floor support framing Pool drainage box PVC pipe to filter pump suction 200mmWaterproofingconcrete slab Foundation:200mmconcrete floor slab 100mmDPM spray foam insulation wrapped around floor 200VCL mm sub base layer 200x500mm foundation concrete block 200x200mm concrete pile foundation
facade: Although brick is expensive and timely to construct in the short term, it’s durability, life span of at least 150 years, recyclability and low maintaince compensate for that, as it indirectly saves variable and indi rect costs in the long term. Brick’s high thermal mass and ability to absorb and store abundant amount of heat makes it the ideal facade material for my climate to tackle the high temperatures.
2.3 Integrative Environmental Design - Initial/ Prototype Envelope
Low e triple glazing: Energy-efficient windows. It helps protects users by blocking out Riyadh’s sun damaging ultraviolet and infrared rays. Low-E triple-glazed windows provide more protection from the sun, as well as reduce noise transmission and increase energy efficiency by reducing so lar gains. It is more expensive yet it has a high energy performance, has health and safety benefits for users which would be the quality of environ ment that renters would be seeking for their employees.
GSHP was assessed and is not viable due to hav ing to dig an additional floor for the pump with additional increased cooling loads and exten sive use of concrete Rain water harvesting Synthesis
1) Environmental Tactics WEEK 2
Green100mmroof:Growing medium Filter 50mmmembraneDrainage layer Root membrance support Sealant membrane VCL wrapped around insulation layer 150mm spray foam insulation 200mm concrete floor slab GlassSteelrailing:anchor fixing bolted into concrete slab Steel stop supporting profile 12mm tempered glass Skylight50mm laser cut Aluminium Mashrabiya panel Low E triple glazing operable skylight with 15mm cavity inbetween Operable palm tree fronds blinds Cieling floor: 20mm Light reflecting porcelien floor tile 20mm 200mmscreedconcrete floor slab 100mm spray foam insulation 300mm suspended cieling services layer with ventilation tube, spotlight fixings and water sprinkler tube 300 mm bulkhead services layer with A.C. unit and vents Secondary steel support fixed onto concrete later -20mm plasterboard Inner envelope (brick): 110mm brick white wall facade 50mm cavity layer 100mmVCL spray foam insulation 150mmDPM aircrete blocks 20mm white plasterboard finishing Inner envelop - Triple glazed operable doors: 100x100mm Aluminium stick type frame Triple glazed low E operable glass with 15mm cavity be tween each panel Insulation wrapped around aluminium frame to prevent coldbridges Floor slab Outer envelope (aluminium panels): Steel support frame fixed onto concrete slab 50mm sheathing board 50mm insulation 50mm metal fixing system 20mm aluminium panels
Spray foam can be significantly more expensive, but can lead to bigger savings on heating and cooling costs. It costs around £30 per square me ter, with a thickness of 80mm. Given the complexity of the installation process for spray foam insulation, the cost to install it are also significantly higher than other insulation types. But its performance outweighs all that because of expanding into cracks and gaps into the wall, covering every single inch and providing excellent insulation from the external environ ment. Spray foam has high R-value thus, offers high resistance to heat transfer. Therefore, the cost of the material and construction duration is costlier and longer however its performance offsets and exceeds that by noteworthy energy saving cost in the long term, along with its 100 year life span and recyclable quality making it worth the money and construction time.
Layers (from Right left): - 200mm Dracea plant - Recycled plant media layer - Waterproof layer - Wiremesh - 20x20mm hollow support mesh - Finishing coat - 300mm Plaster - 100mm load bearing brick wall 150x150 mm Horizontal Metal support 150x150 mm Horizon tal Metal support 300mm services
- Sequestering the use of concrete with carbon negative elements to offset the building’s high embodied energy with green wall slats and a green roof. The slats include Dracaena plants (ideal CO2 absorber plant for cli mate and best air filterer) across the ground floor buffer zone space that creates a micro climate and shades from the harsh sun. The slats also gives the opportunity of the creation of a micro climate in the semi enclosed space due to their moisture constituents and shading strategy allowing a habitable sheltered outside space and access to views but with a more bearable temperature.
Increased insulation in attempt to prevent ther mal bridging insulation through aircrete block needs to be found to solve thatAdded lizard protection layer since there are many lizards in the Middle East, especially the desert which is where the site is set in Flashing added to pre vent water penetration or seepage into foundation blocks and insulation layers
Switching from onsite concrete overhang to prefab metal overhang: - Upon reflection, I have switched from the use of concrete to other materi als in secondary elements where thermal mass is not needed (unlike in the concrete foundations) - the use of steel overhanging balconies allow ease in construction, reduce time on site and benefit from the frame prefabrica tion offsite before being easily bolted on the main structure on site making it more feasable and viable for the client.
Iteration 1 Iteration 2 Vegetation layer 100mm growing medium Filter GlassDry300VCL200mmRoofingWater100mmmembranedraingelayerproofing/rootrepellentmembranesupportSprayfoaminsulationtightlywrappedaroundmmperimeterballastsealmembranerailingfixedontoconcrete
- Continuous thermal insulation where needed to avoid thermal bridging and adhering to overall saving/ reducing energy load strategy
- Substituiting high embodied carbon materials for lower embodied or car bon negative alternatives where possible - Use of recyclable materials where possible - Assessing and evaluatng structural dimensions (such as the foundation for example) and referring back to engineers to specify dimensions - and avoiding overengineering (as it is not within the scope of this assignment)
Design intent: Continuous tightly sealed vapour and air tightness
Iteration 3: Roof - wall detailing detailing: Wall - foundation detailing -200x100mm brickwork outer leaf50mm cavity wall Vapour barrier continued to concrete slab, sealed and taped to maintain high airtness layer 150mm spray foam insulation Breather150mmx300mmmembrane aircrete blocks20mm plasterboard interior finish200 Concrete slab with damp proof course tightly wrapped around and sealed 200mm spray foam insulation to prevent thermal bridging 150mm aircrete Internal lead blockworkFoundation blocks
Iteration 1: Load bearing brick wall with horizontal metal support on cieling and floor as the main connec tion with the concrete slab Iteration 2: Upon reflection, all layers seemed to make sense and add up, overall thickness being 700 mm. A water proof layer (blue line) was added for addi tional protection of the suspended cieling, and a sealant on top to cover it.
3.1i Integrative Detail Study - Iteration/ Ideation (1/2)
Offsetting carbon emissions with greenery and vegetation
slab -- 200mm concrete floor slab 100mm spray foam insulation 600 mm Suspended cieling system (in cluding bulkhead) containing ventilation tube water tube 30mm aluminium fascia bolted into concrete slab Drainage channel
Iteration 1 Iteration 2 Iteration 1: Iteration 2: 12x2mm glass panel Top metal profile with metal anchor Motor bracket supporting 30mm Mashrabiya panel on recessed metal track bolted into concrete slab 20mm floor tiles 20mm 200mmscreedconcrete floor slab 30mm overhanging brise soleil bolted into concrete slab 50mm sheathing board 30mm aluminium fascia panel sup ported by metal bracket 50mm sheathing board - 40mm tile on screed - 70mm metal decking - 12x2mm glass panel on top metal profile with metal anchor - Motor bracket supporting 30mm Mashrabi ya on recessed metal track on metal panel - Metal support system held by horizontal metal rail (fixed to concrete slab) - 200x200mm metal beam with services -spaceCprofile metal support bolted into concrete beam through metal plate - Metal supporting sheet - Timber studs bolted onto metal sheet - 20mm Fire retardent treated timber cieling deck (treated against pest control and termites too) - 100x100mm Timber stud horizontal -support30mm aluminium Fascia bolted into metal support Mashrabiya panel materiality change - from laser cut aluminium to laser cut wood panels This is because of its historic use therefore to respect the heritage of the area (as well as other properties) it only seemed appropriate to use wood for contextual and aesthestic purposes. Wood can be treated for durability, it also does not overheat or conduct heat therefore could be adjusted manually comfortably by users as intended without burning, whereas metal conducts heat and overheats. Wood is locally sourced and will be plasma cut as a cheaper and faster alternative with the same quality rather than doing it the traditional way where carpenters make the engravings (whom areseverely underpaid in Saudi), to create a traditional Islamic aethetic emulating the local hertiage of Riyadh.
- Green roof to absorb incoming harsh sun rays and protecting building from overheating and increased cooling demands by acting as a bound ary shades building and takes advantage of sun rays for photosynthesis as well as the absorption of CO2 as part of the sequesting and offsetting CO2 strategy
Summary: - Consistent air tightness, VCL and DPM where needed, no air gaps, tightly wrapped around and sealed in layers
1) Detail Design Development WEEK 3 Materiality and Methodology
- Continuous high level of air tightness entails designing and installing a continuous seal around the internal fabric of the external envelope to elim inate unwanted draughts. This is accompanied by good quality continuous insulation to reduce cooling losses, as part of the energy efficient design strategy in the building to reduce unnecessary cooling losses. Adhering to the Passivhaus building demands.
Balcony detailing: Tesing overhanging floor slab, connections, cieling services Overhanging concrete slab with metal brackets/ bolts attatched to glass railing, operable recessed Mashrabiya track with mashrabiya overhang bolt ed into concrete slab. An aluminium fascia panel wrapped around slab bolted into slab
This iteration assumed the air crete blocks are load bearing and can carry heavy loads. The detail has to be doble checked and approved by a struc tural engineer however extra support should be considered to ensure loads are transferred to foundation Although the detail is a working progress ans is not final, it was mportant for me to test how real istic the proposal of this detail was in terms of its thickness, the services inbetween the layers and overall assembly on the concrete floor slab. Over all, the proposal is financially viable due to mostly use of recycled layers for the build up, and the green wall being a sequester of carbon offsetting emmissions making it environmentally friendly. To further progress this detail it has to be run through a structural engineer to assess whether the brick alone could withstand the forces exerted on it from the vegetation.
Iteration 2: Extra 50mm continuous wall insulation around aircrete bricks to prevent thermal bridging Additional airtightness extra wrapped around second insulation sealing all possible air gaps to prevent seeping A secondary steel I beam to support the sus pended cieling and bulkhead added but dimen sions need to be double checked by structural engineer Iteration 1: Crucial drainge layer to drain excess irrigation water, it is connect ed to a central drainge system that recycles water for toilet flushing. Drainage rain water channel for rain water harvesting directs incom ing water to the system to be filtered and used for flushing. Glass rail ing on roof for safety. Aluminium fascia sheet protects concrete slab and reflects incoming sunlight Flashing added for increased damp protection protection. Perhaps the concrete foundation dimensions need to be inreased to with stand higher loads. This would be revised by a structural engineer to ensure all elements are the correct dimensions. A lizard pro tection sheet is an important element added acknowledging and tackling some inconviences the area might have.
In this iteration I added a suspended services space for spotlights to be added so the space can be used during dark hours. The cieling Mashrabiya, is fixed and supported by a secondary steel element. Con crete slab is protected by sheathing board and plas terboard Green wall slats Exploring green slatted wall fixture on overhang slab and ground slab
Iteration 2: Upon reflection, continuous insulation, continuous thermal + vapour barrier lay ers for air tighntess, suspended cieling supported by beam and metal profiling. Consider how blockwork connects to concrete beam + slab - add another layer of insulation for ease in continuity?
Performance Results: Energy OverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load267622269135lit16%lit35%lit50%
Performance Results: Energy
Iteration 1: Cieling wall floor detail: solving thermal bridging and continuous air tightness+ vapour barrier but maintaining aircrete blockwork that is supported by beam +floor slab. Figure out the metal glazing sup port detail on floor + cieling for it to be moveable so put on recessed metal track
Iteration 3 - More Mashrabiya added and Brise soleil Screen Grabs/ Diagram Parameter Values
WEEK 3 Environmental and Technological Focus Design Assessingintent:and testing building performace with the incorpora tion of my proposed shading strategies to shade the balcony and interior space through sefaira energy simulations. A typi cal Islamic geometry Mashrabiya anciently used will be tested along with brise soleil overhangs in order to create a visually comfortable spaces whilst maximising incoming sunlight to re duce lighting loads. The simulations will assess their viability in incorporating these elements in the project. It was important to incorporate abundant shading strategies as the building has no surroundings building to shade and recieves sun from all sides in a hot sunny desert climate, so it was prone to major over heating and therefore significant amount of strategies had to be taken into account to protect the building to ensure a healthy habitable environment for users. Incorporating abundant pas sive strategies to lower overall loads and therefore present a low maintanence cost and low running building cost for devel opers in a realistic world.
1) Detail design development
Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K
Energy OverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load133812041759lit13%lit55%lit32%
Energy loads are the same as the first simulation suggesting increased pan els are needed. Increased vertical shading could be incoporated in the next simulatio to reach a satisfiable result as well as increased horizontal shad ing (seen it was successful before). Placement could be balanced between infront of openings to not fully shade windows and doors from outside to maintain balance between well lit areas. The panels however will be made operable like shutters to be adjusted by users (see detailing in page above) in order for shading to be as desired by users during different times of day as facade cannoy fully contain panels or else the floor plate will be overlit.
Shading = Increased Mashrabiya panels and added horizontal brise soleil on each floor Expected result: Increase in well lit areas around the glazed fa cades, perhaps increase in underlit areas as well due to increased shading, decrease in overall overlit areas especially around non shaded glazing. Actual result: Increased vertical shading along with additional horizontal shading was successful as a balance well lit areas was reached along with decrease in underlit and overlit areas, how ever these results do not take into account the operable panels that can be adjusted so results in real life would be better. Over all result is satisfiable as majority of floor plate is well lit suggest ing visualy comfortable environment for users with chances of glare elimnated with operable shadinf strategies.
OverWellUnderDaylightingCoolingHeatingLighting(kWh/yr)Load267622269676lit11%lit37%lit53%
- No thermal bridging to retain coolness in and preventing it from seeping out - as well as letting the heat seep in and in crease cooling loads in return. Coninuous insulation would re duce cooling loads reducing additional amount spent on elec tricity (which is very costly in Saudi Arabia due to high overall cooling demands) as well as improving the interior health of the building by decreasing the risk of condensation (due to high in terior vs exterior temperature difference), which prevents mold from appearing.
- Discovered through continuous 1:5 detail iterations that alter natives to concrete overhang can be used such as steel over hangs that is more time efficient in construction, can be prefab ricated, cheaper cost and overall environmental performance (having lower embodied carbon than brick).
Iteration 1 - Mashrabiya panels added to SE, SW and NE (minimal) Screen Grabs/ Diagram Parameter Values: Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Shading = Mashrabiya vertical panels on the SE, SW and NE (minimal due to lack in direct sunlight Expected result: Increase in well lit areas around the glazed fa cades, decrease in overlit areas due to increased shading. In crease in underlit areas perhaps towards middle of floor plate Actual result: Mash. vertical panels didnt make much of a differ ence in shading and decreasing overlit areas, this could be due to minimal use of it and an increase in panels will be added in the next simulation. Increase in underlit area around the lower floors due to no less direct light penetration across floor plate, howev er after some research, sources say that the sun in Riyadh is so bright indirect light penetrates deeper into floor plates solving the issue as this fact cannot be simulated.
Iteration 4: Steel overhangs were considered as an alternative to concrete due to its lower embodied energy as a way of reducing the buildings overall carbon footprints where possible C metal profile support bolted into concrete beam through metal plate 70mm metal deckingSuspended services supported by beam through metal profile No connection between aircrete and beam reconsider insulationContinuousplacementbreather membrane and vapour barrier wrapped around Continuous insulation layer 20mm floor tiles - 20 mm screed - 200mm concrete floor slab - 150x 300 mm concrete beam - Recessed metal track fixed and supported by concrete floor slab - 12x3mm low E triple glazing with 12mm cavity layers inbetween - 300 mm suspended cieling services sys tem supported by concrete slab and beam - Supporting metal beam - 100mm brick facade with mortar joints - 50mm cavity wall - Vapour layer - 100mm spray foam insulation - Breather membrane - 150m aircrete blocks - 20mm plasterboard Metal support system held by horizontal metal rail (fixed to concrete200x200mmslab) metal beam with services space Metal supporting sheet Timber studs bolted onto metal sheetFire retardent treated timber cieling deck (treated against pest control and termites) 1:5 detail iterations: Exploring build ups and materiality
Iteration 1 - Shading the skylight Screen Grabs/ Diagram Parameter Values: Glass U-value = 1.6 W/m2K Wall U-value = 0.16 W/m2K Shading = Mashrabiya panels on skylight of a typical islamic art
Performance Results: Intensity Value Check: Comment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)15079+Losses
Performance Results Intensity Value Check: SettingsComment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)7970+Losseswereadjusted in order to represent the integrated proposed strate gies as much as possible (in terms of insulation and equipement loads etc). Therefore a highly successful result was achieved. Building loads is above the target which shows the passive strategies siginificant affect in reducing overall energy consumption in the building. The building does not require any form of heating due to soaring hot climate year round therefore that load is immediatelty eliminated. Lighting loads are mainly dominated in services core which is a small fraction of the area.
Iteration 3: 50mm extra insulation for construction ease, aircrete supported by beam + slab. Steel profiling supporting brick cladding + suspended cieling by boltd for con struction ease and fast construction. Timber finishing + sheathing on cieling. 50mm floor insulation under screed for continuous thermal layer
Performance Results: Intensity Value Check: DoesComment:GainsActualTarget(kWh/m2/yr)15079+Lossesnottakeinto account the detailed passive strategies incorporated such as continuous high quality insulation, air tightness, passive cooling strategies etc therefore does not indicate the actual energy performance of the build ing as consumption would be much lower in reality. However, the given re sults indicates a “worst case scenario” and loads should continually attempt ed to be decreased through multiple testing to reach a satisfiable result.
Underlit areas are in the services area which would have to be artificially lit however can use abundant electrcity generated from PVC panels as a renewable source of energy.
Expectedpattern result: Increase in well lit areas around the atrium and across floor plate as a whole due to light filteration from Mash. but still overlit areas around openings Actual result: Mash. made a significant increase in well lit (green) area around atrium however the higher the floor the more over lit it got therefor having placed a palm tree on plan in the ground floor will shade the upper two floors further whilst maintaining the well lit area of the bottom two floors.
3.1ii Integrative Detail Study - Iteration/ Ideation (2/2)
Performance Results
