Issuu

ARCHITECTUAL DESIGN POSITION:

Optimising light in a north facing fragment.

Adhering to the cradle-to-cradle principles, my intervention program involves transforming construction waste into sculptural and artistic materials, thereby offering a new lease of life to discarded resources. My design ambition is to optimize the sunlight in the studio of my fragment whilst considering the utilization of recycled materials as a building material. The aim is to curate a space that not only champions aesthetic appeal but also prioritizes comfort for the artists and sculptors who inhabit it. It's imperative to note that the curtain wall selection is deliberate, aiming to offer passersby a glimpse into the building while also flooding the space with natural light for its inhabitants.

TECHNOLOGIES RESPONSE:

CLIMATE PERFORMANCE

BUILIDNG & LIFE SAFETY

FRAGMENT:

OBJECTIVES:

Using the specified fragment I intend to research the following

- Define the technologies response &Technologies artifacts

- Discover the optimal lighting for the interior (studio & art space)

- Consider the constructability of the brick build-up

- Consider the brick bond and its opportunities and threats

- Produce a detailed model of my fragment with optimal lighting

CONSTRUCTABILITY

to construct. CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE:

DIMENTIONS:

- 3.86m x 6.85m - 26.4m2

- 4.54m x 3.44m - 15.6m2

- 7.13m (enclosed)

FRAGMENT LOCATION:

FRAGMENT SELECTION:

The selected fragment is a point of interest in my intervention as it can be seen from the entrance onto site meaning it must create a point of interest and engagement from far away. To do this have chosen to finish the north wall with a curtain wall of glass to create immediate engagement with the activities inside the building. The west wall receives the most light engagement for this fragment but

TECHNOLOGIES ARTIFACTS:

MATERIALS:

RECLAIMED MATERIAL (where

TOOLS:

The construction methods used in this fragment deal with common construction methods on a standard

more circular economy. This would be able to teach the early stages of the lifespan of a brick whilst the intervention demonstrates the process after the end of life.

PROCESSES:

This construction sequence is the most efficient way to assemble this fragment, its standard construction sequence minimizes the need for specialist assembly. Due to the required height of the beams and the specific joints required elsewhere in the building, the frame is steel offering

As diagrammed brick and timber, even with standard sizing, may need to be retreated, or cleaned before considered fit for construction. this does increase embodied energy but not significantly enough to justify the use of a virgin material.

LUCY LEES (MMU ID: 21439197) // MANCHESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE BA3 TECHNOLOGIES 3 PART C: TECHNOLOGIES DETIAL STUDY (TDS) // TECHNOLOGIES POSITION.

My chosen fragment must create an area of thermal comfort, capture distilled natural light, and stand as a weather barrier from natural elements. A high percentage of glazing brings the total U value down emphasising the importance of high heat resistance in the wall and roof build-up. SUMMER SOLSTICEJUNE 21st (2023) WINTER SOLSTICEDECEMBER 21st (2023)

Rhino Grasshopper daylight hours analysis of my fragment in context with the surrounding building to understand the lack of daylight the interior environment gets especially during winter months.

also needs to prevent heat transfer to create thermal comfort in the interior.

discussion presented is how to create optimal lighting for a studio space whilst simultaneously maintaining thermal comfort and weather resistance. DAYLIGHT ANALYSIS: WALL BUILD UP: Achieving a U value of 0.16 W/M2K offers a high resistance to heat transfer. R eclaimed brick Insulated Plasterboard Breater membrane Insulation steel frame 100mm Insulation Vapour Control Layer W all ties CLIMATIC PERFORMANCE IN SECTION: Drainage elements deal with water collection and offer the potential for water storage Drainpipe collectin Zone Draing system Due to the angles of my building and the load placement of this fragment, the structure consists of a steel frame with reclaimed brick cladding. The pitched roof has a timber frame and tile cladding. POURED CONCRETE FOUNDATION BLOCK FOUNDATION GRAVEL INSULATED CONCRETE STEEL FRAME TIMBER FRAME STRUCTURE: JOINT CONECTION PITCHED

50°

design consists of a high-pitched roof which, although necessary for desired aesthetics, requires specialized building teams and can be difficult to access for maintenance. 50° VENTILATION (PART F) Air brick vents with adjustable louvers built into the wall build-up to create natural ventilation. This area needs a range of thermal comfort due to the use of the mezzanine and double-height space therefore the vents should be adjusted accordingly. BRICK BOND: My building consists of a steel frame which would be constructed and attached to the foundation before the other wall elements are constructed. My fragment has a traditional running bond which is in keeping with the use of reclaimed brick and is one of the simpler bonds

The

ROOF

The

Emphisis on designing material first & the programme of my building dealing with recycling construction waste has lead to my fragment consisting of a high precentage of reclaimed construction material constraining the

pros such as speed of construction, cost efficiency, and potential to recycle at the end of life.

facade to material predomenatly found in and around sheffield.

circa. 4.9kg CO2 eq/m3). Much like recycled brick steel can be claimed from construction sites, however for them to be applicable they have to be remelted and built to fit the specific design. with a embodied carbon of 800 kgCO₂e/tonne in comparison to virgin steels 2800 kgCO₂e/tonne Reclaimed flooring from factories and mills reduces landfill waste and can reduce total embodied carbon significantly as the carbon has already been spent. This continues the carbon-sequestering nature of the wood after the end of life.

Slate

Poured concrete (reinfoced)foundations Block concrete - foundations Fiberglass insulation - Wall build up Insulated plasterboard - Wall build up Tripple Glazing Two overarching processes happen in my building 1. consider the start to end of life with materiality and construction. 2. The process of obtaining energy and electricity. Cradle-to-cradle thinking is an influence on decision-making within my fragment. Emphasis is placed on reclaiming construction waste where possible to be repurposed in my intervention.

aplicable) The reclaimed brick is key to the fragment. Used as an outer skin, bricks are claimed from both the site and Sheffield. Using reclaimed bricks can reduce the carbon significantly (to

(photovoltaic)

hard terrain. Due to the location of the site, there is easy access for large machinery and cars. A Crain would be required to construct the steel framework but most other construction can be achieved with scaffolding and workers. No specialized equipment or labour would be required for the majority of construction meaning most of the tools could be sourced locally (Sheffield) expanding the commons to the area around the site. Most of the construction must be completed by professionals. The materiality chosen doesn't lend itself to DIY however where applicable this intervention can be used as a training course for the skill of bricklaying to feed into a

1. sun goes in DC electricity comes out 2. Inverter converts not useful DC electricity ito 240 V AC power 3. disconect switch 4. connection to homes wireing system at fusebox. 5. exess power exported 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. WOOD CLAY IRON SILICA PRODUCTION MAINTANANCE DEMOLITION LANDFILL ON SITE - specific macheniery OFF SITE - prefabrication ON SITE - assembly tools ON SITE - manual tools Excavation Screeding Production Moulding Crains Scafolding Equiptment Services Finishings

height

FRAGMENT

base

roof

PROTOTYPING:

ITTERATIVE TESTING | RECORD OF PROCESS

REASONS FOR PROYTOTYPING:

In line with the intervention's focus on repurposing construction waste into artistic elements, achieving solar shading using repurposed brick is essential. This approach not only aligns with the program's ethos but also elevates the building itself into a work of aRt. This fragment serves as a practical demonstration of how brick can be repurposed to provide solar shading, showcasing the innovative potential of sustainable design. If repurposed brick cladding proves effective in optimizing daylight intake within the studio, it can be applied elsewhere in the building.

The initial design for this fragment was inspired by the image of a brick positioned on its corner leaning against others, resulting in a triangular-shaped window on the west façade meeting a curtain wall on the north facade. Starting with this design concept as a foundation, it's crucial to explore how iterating the repurposed brick cladding can influence the daylight factor within the studio and workshop space whilst optimizing the use of the repurposed brick for both its form and function.

ITERATION 1: Maximum Daylight Factor | Control

ITERATION 2: Initial deaign approach 33°

ITTERATIVE CRITERIA:

- This test provides quantitative and qualitative data on the radiation factor using the two solstices as comparable.

- The angle must be set from the same base connection, as it aligns with a critical load-bearing steel joint that is located there.

- All iterations must prioritize the use of recycled bricks as the primary material, considering standardized sizes, brick type, brick bond, and freeze/thaw resistance.

- Northan light is considered beneficial for studios achieving diffused light without harsh glare and excessive heat gain (critical to avoid for some paints and materials). This fragment is shaded by the rest of the intervention creating a need for glazing in the west wall bringing natural light in winter months, and trying to avoid overheating and too much direct light.

OBJECTIVE:

Maximize natural lighting in winter (A) and minimize overheating in summer (B) whilst considering materiality, energy performance & aesthetics. Out of the 5 iterations which achieves closest to both A&B?

HYPOTHOSIS:

Iteration 3 will be able to minimize overheating whilst achieving a good amount of natural light in winter but may be impractical to build. Iteration 5 will achieve the best results regarding radiation but doesn't achieve the required aesthetic.

ITERATION 3: Angle increased | 46.38°

Maximizing daylight in the fragment consists of removing the brick cladding and continuing the curtain wall onto the west-facing

Used as a control, this iteration exposes the west wall which shows the maximum radiant heat distributed in the studio using the two solstices as comparables. This iteration shows high levels of heat gain in both seasons and reaching 1.46KWH/M2 in summer, the fragment would certainly overheat. Moreover, it would achieve too much direct natural light for an optimal studio potentially damaging materials, and would require ventilation strategies to cool the fragment in summer and heat in winter to attempt to

This iteration uses specialized panels of triple-glazed glass achieving a U value of 0.7 W/m2k which shows significantly worse thermal performance than a wall build leading to the need for mechanical heating systems and limiting the possibility of natural ventilation.

This iteration provides a control mechanism to demonstrate the maximum radiation gain possible, facilitating a more thorough analysis of shading devices. It is evident that during summer months, there would be excessive radiation exposure, with a high proportion of the area receiving 1.46 kWh/m². Direct sunlight would also impact the workspace, posing a risk of material and art damage while also hindering consistent lighting.

The wall composition primarily consists of glass, necessitating the production of custom glass panels for the project and extensive machinery for installation. The energy performance of this configuration is too high, mandating mechanical heating to maintain suitable conditions.

The initial design approach consists of the bricks being clad in a running bond which is considered one of the most simple bonds for construction. This bond creates a diagonal angle of 33.69°.

expected the radiation factor increases in this iteration as the percentage of glazing

Unlike the control (iteration 1), the west wall build-up has a good thermal performance of 0.16W/m2k which increases energy efficiency in the fragment, in turn, limiting the use of operational energy required.

While the fragment isn't overexposed in summer months, it lacks sufficient light in winter for the artists, rendering this iteration suboptimal. The aesthetic also suffers as although the windows' primary purpose is for lighting in this instance, it doesn't allow an average adult to look through it making it have less purpose for the user.

The angle in question is determined by employing the widely used running bond pattern for bricks. In this particular case, there is an overhang of 107.5 mm from the brick, indicating the need for specialized water-resistant bricks that may alter the overall appearance. Supporting this overhang may necessitate consulting a structural engineer to ensure the bricks are securely placed.

While simulation results favour this iteration due to optimal natural light in winter and controlled radiation in summer, its unique brick bond presents practical challenges for affordability and feasibility. It would require reinforcement in a lot of areas which doesn't achieve a material-first process as it is introducing new material where it may not be necessary.

Only 71mm of brick would be exposed due to the overhang, a significant reduction compared to Iteration 2. This wall build-up ensures good thermal performance while closely aligning with the aesthetics of my initial design fragment (refer to page 1).

MATERIALITY & BOND: MATERIALITY & BOND:

This iteration is highlighted in orange as it is optimal for my goals of maximizing natural light in winter and minimizing radiation in summer months. While summer radiation levels are high, the red and orange areas facilitate circulation around main working areas with low radiation levels. As a result, there is limited direct light on art and sculpture but optimized reflected light throughout the room. Additionally, an interior shading device can effectively mitigate overheating in summer.

The wall build-up with reclaimed brick not only gives the bricks a new life but also reduces embodied carbon. This approach achieves excellent thermal performance, reducing the need for excessive mechanical heating during winter months.

to specified high water-resistant brick due to the reclaimed brick's faster weathering.

The glass wall's low U-value compromises thermal performance, necessitating mechanical heating and resulting in increased carbon emissions from operational energy use.

LUCY LEES (MMU ID: 21439197) | MANCHESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE BA3 TECHNOLOGIES 3 PART C: TECHNOLOGIES DETIAL STUDY (TDS) | PROTOTYPING.

RADIATION

FACTOR TESTING:

optimize the interior thermal comfort. This iteration does have an aesthetic quality but doesn't adhere to the initial design intentions. The west wall has a 10.29% Glazing and the windows are angled at 33° creating a low light which, as shown, causes less solar radiation and in effect would be less damaging to paints and materials. This window has challenges aesthetically as its height reaches 1.5M, restricting the view inside or out from the average adult. The fragment may require passive ventilation in summer and some heating in winter but should provide thermal comfort to occupants. Passive ventilation must be facilitated through vents to prevent debris from entering through the lower windows. MATERIALITY

CLIMATE PERFORMANCE: Iteration 5: Hit & Miss Brickwork | curtain wall Much like the control, the wall build-up consists of a glass curtain wall and a shading device of brick as an outer skin. This is an effective way to manipulate light and textures but tends to be unique to the design, requiring consultation with a structural engineer. ITERATION 4: Angle inxreased | 56.31° A Header Stretcher Bond uses the bricks in the lengthways position, stacking with 1/2 a brick crossover which would adjust the window angle to 56.31° Summer solstice 21/06/23 0.00 - 0.84 KWH/M2 Winter solstice 21/12/23 0.00 - 0.23 KWH/M2 RADIATION FACTOR TESTING: RADIATION FACTOR TESTING: Adjusting the placement of the brick to cover 2/3 of the brick shifting the window angle to 46.38°. mirroring this angle to increase the glazing percentage. This iteration utilizes a specialized bond to create the same finish on both windows. RADIATION FACTOR TESTING: The west wall in this iteration has a 13.79% glazing and the windows are angled at 46° from the floor, covering the loadbearing steel frame. Much like iteration 2, the fragment receives low Western light but as the simulation shows, in summer the radiation factor reaches 1.09 KWH/M2. This high radiation factor only affects areas of the building that are used as circulation for the artists but will heat the rest of the room through solar gain (much like iterations 1 & 4). The highest point of the triangular window reaches 2.24m creating a window that can be looked out of and into. The winter radiation suggests a need for mechanical heating.

MATERIALITY & BOND: The control doesn't use any brick as a shading device but rather uses wooden frames for the glass curtain wall to hide the structure from the exterior facade and protect it from the elements. If this iteration proved to have optimal radiation more frames would be put into place to create frames that fit standardized panels of glass so that repurposed glass could be used in the facade. CLIMATE PERFORMANCE: CLIMATE PERFORMANCE: CLIMATE PERFORMANCE: CLIMATE PERFORMANCE:

& BOND:

MATERIALITY

BOND:

(on the west wall) has increased to 20.56%. The window angle has increased to 56° making the top height of the triangle shape 3.42m aligning with the height of the curtain wall facing north because of this, I consider it one of the more aesthetic iterations. The maximum radiation factor reaches 1.12 KWH/M2 which could cause an area to overheat, however, this factor is only relevant in areas of circulation. The yellow factor of 0.56KWH/M2 is more of a concern for thermal comfort and over-exposure. In this instance, an interior shading device and natural ventilation would be installed to counter this. This iteration uses bricks as a shading device in a hit-and-miss bond that acts as a skin to the fragment. The simulation suggests a far more even distribution of radiation than the previous iterations. The majority of direct light is coming from the north-facing window which is considered one of the better lightings for artwork, the western wall acts as a filter, creating dappled light in the fragment which is shown in the simulations above. The maximum radiation factor recorded is 0.84 KWH/M2 and is in very low quantity creating a comfortable thermal environment in summer however, the simulation of the winter solstice proves to be too dark restricting natural Summer solstice 21/06/23 0.00 - 1.12 KWH/M2 Winter solstice 21/12/23 0.00 - 0.23 KWH/M2 Summer solstice 21/06/23 0.00 - 1.09 KWH/M2 Winter solstice 21/12/23 0.00 - 0.23 KWH/M2 Summer solstice 21/06/23 0.00 - 0.96 KWH/M2 Winter solstice 21/12/23 0.00 - 0.23 KWH/M2 Summer solstice 21/06/23 0.00 - 1.46 KWH/M2 Winter solstice 21/12/23 0.00 - 0.29 KWH/M2 The running bond uses standard-sized bricks horizontally. An angle of 33° is achieved with a half-brick overhang at the angled window, exposing the bricks. Custom high water-resistant solid bricks might be needed for these exposed areas to prevent water ingress. The remaining bricks can be recycled from onsite demolitions, though this may result in a slight colour variation. INSIGHT: The brick build-up strategy aims to limit brick overhang to reduce exposure while maximizing recycled brick use. This requires a specialized brick bond, certified and implemented by specialists and structural engineers. The reduced exposure helps exposed bricks weather more slowly. The wall build-up (without glazing) achieves a thermal performance of 0.16W/m2k where there is 200mm of insulation and much like iteration 2, this creates a good interior climate minimizing operational energy. INSIGHT: INSIGHT: Achieving a 56° angle requires using a header stretcher bond for the bricks. While this bond typically uses more bricks than standard bonds and is considered more expensive, it becomes considerably cheaper when using reclaimed bricks. In this case, the brick overhang is only 32.5mm but remains exposed to elements. Using custom high water-resistant solid bricks diagonally can limit damage and be beneficial in this situation. The wall build-up (without glazing) achieves a thermal performance of 0.15W/m2k where the brick is 215mm thick and there is 200mm mineral insulation. It is beneficial to have a lower U value as the glazing percentage increases. INSIGHT: INSIGHT: Using reclaimed brick for hit-and-miss brickwork is possible but requires maintenance and protection due to high exposure. Sealants, coatings, and repointing are necessary. Reinforcement with rebar or piers may be needed for the tall brickwork, increasing complexity and requiring specialist contractors. In this iteration the brick skin provides very little thermal resistance making the U value consistent with iteration ( 0.7 W/m2k ) this room would require mechanical heating and cooling systems to create optimal temperature conditions for the artists.

that this design would optimize radiation testing results, but findings indicate that the outer skin would result in minimal natural light reaching the fragment during winter months, rendering it inefficient for the room's intended purpose. The hit-and-miss bond is less effective with reclaimed brick compared

hypothesized

TECHNICAL DETAIL:

REFLECTIONS ON INITIAL POSITION & DESIGN INSIGHTS

CLIMATE:

Iterative testing using solar radiance analysis has determined that iteration 4 represents the optimal solar shading device. This iteration maximizes natural light penetration during winter while effectively reducing overheating and excessive direct sunlight exposure during summer months. The design achieved in iteration 4 facilitates a wall build-up that attains an impressive U-value of 0.15 W/m²K, showcasing superior thermal performance. The steep roof design and guttering systems are strategically engineered to ensure efficient water drainage, thereby maintaining structural integrity over time. Additionally, where feasible, brick vents positioned on the west-facing wall capitalize on prevailing southwest winds to facilitate natural ventilation, contributing to a comfortable indoor environment while promoting sustainable building practices.

BUILDING AND LIFE SAFETY:

In this iteration, the main load-bearing steel frame is concealed behind the angled brick facade, creating a seamless and aesthetic appearance. The steel frame is carefully designed to match the angles of the brickwork, ensuring a cohesive and structurally sound integration. A metal lintel would attach to this frame, providing additional support for the weight of the angled brick and ensuring structural stability over time.

Given that some of the brickwork is exposed to the elements, it's crucial to use high-quality, water-resistant bricks in these areas. This choice helps prevent weathering, water damage, and potential structural issues, ensuring the longevity and durability of the building facade.

CONSTRUCTABILITY:

EXAMPLE JOINT SYSTEM

The construction process hasn't changed drastically from the initial fragment, aside from the brick bond, which is still relatively simple to construct and doesn't require specialized contractors. As mentioned, bricklaying could be used as a course to educate and pass on trades, using the construction as an element of the commons. This approach not only promotes skill development within the community but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the built environment. It aligns with sustainable practices by empowering local resources and knowledge while creating spaces that serve both functional and educational purposes.

MATERIALITY:

The materiality hasn't changed significantly either; the bricks are repurposed from demolition sites, giving them a new lease of life and limiting embodied carbon in the building. Reclaimed tiles and wood are also utilized, along with recycled steel frames, to further reduce embodied carbon. This approach not only reduces environmental impact by minimizing new material extraction but also adds a unique character to the building through the use of aged and weathered materials.

REFLECTION & FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS:

Solar analysis on page 2 has provided insights into understanding the best natural lighting strategy. The radiation analysis not only sheds light on visual lighting but also on solar heat gain. Iteration 4 has emerged as the most effective option in optimizing both lighting quality and mitigating solar heat gain, showcasing efficient thermal transfer properties and reduced operational energy usage.

While Iteration 4 excels in optimal lighting conditions, additional consideration could be given to exploring lighting dynamics from above and how they interact with the sloped ceiling to create indirect light. This approach leverages natural light entering from above, which can then be diffused and reflected off the sloped ceiling, creating a softer and more evenly distributed illumination throughout the space. More testing would be needed to understand this in better depth.

This 3D model illustrates the intricate connection details within a steel frame, showcasing a versatile joint system applicable across various structural frameworks, including those external to this specific fragment. Bolting serves as the predominant method for joints where feasible. However, in angled joints necessitating enhanced strength and rigidity, welding techniques are strategically employed to forge seamless and durable connections. This standardized approach not only ensures structural integrity but also contributes to overall project savings and timeliness design.

FLOOR / STEEL FRAME JOINT

This 3D model illustrates the crucial role of the central steel bar in bearing the primary structural loads within the building system. The integration of both bolted and welded systems enhances the connection's resilience, ensuring a durable and robust linkage between the steel frame and the concrete slab. The strategic placement and design of these connection elements contribute to the overall structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of the construction, emphasizing the importance of precise engineering in modern building design.

LUCY LEES (MMU ID: 21439197) // MANCHESTER SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE BA3 TECHNOLOGIES 3 PART C: TECHNOLOGIES DETIAL STUDY (TDS) // DETAILING.

INTEGRATIVE

1 39 38 35 34 37 33 30 29 32 36 28 27 23 31 32 28 26 25 24 1:5 1:5 FLOOR / WALL CONNECTION FLOOR / ROOF CONNECTION

SYSTEM | DESIGN CONCLUSIONS

22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 9 13 13 14 22 9 11 11 10 8 7 7 10 6 5 4 2 3 15 22 14 16 26 14 5 6 7 9 26 10 ROOF TILES - 1 HORIZONTAL BATTENS - 2 COUNTER BATTENS - 3 BREATHER MEMBRANE (SARKING) - 4 150MM INSULATION - 5 62.5MM INSULATION - 6 VAPOUR CONTROL LAYER - 7 TILTING FILLET - 8 RING BEAM - 9 15MM PLASTERBOARD - 10 GUTTER SYSTEM FIXED TO FASCIA - 11 SOFFIT - 12 RIGID INSULATION - 13 RAFTER BEAM - 14 AIR GAP - 15 INSULATED CABITY BARRIER - 16 (30MIN FIRE RESISTANCE) MASONARY WALL - 17 MINERAL WOOL INSULATION - 18 STEEL LINTEL

19 BACKING ROD

20 INSULATED

TIMBER

HALF

(FIXED

PAVING

WOODEN

CONCRETE

VAPOUR

BLOCKWORK

SAND

AGGREGATE

40 REINFORCED

50mm 100mm 200mm

PLASTERBOARD - 21

WINDOW FRAME - 22

BRICK REVEAL - 23 STEEL FRAME WITH INSULATIOJN FILL - 24 TRIPPLE PANE GLASS - 25 INSULATION & SILICONE SEAL - 26 CURTAIN WALL SYSTEM - 27

TO GROUND SLAB) PINE WINDOW FRAME - 28

SLAB - 29 POURED CONCRETE - 30

FLOOR FINISH - 31

SLAB - 32 PERIMITER INSULATION - 33

CONTROL LAYER - 34

STRIP FOUNDATION - 35

BINDING - 36

- 37 DAMP PROOF MEMBRANE - 38 RIGID INSULATION - 39 CONCRETE FILL -

CONCRETE FOOTING - 41