The Rolex Learning Center

A- The aim for The Rolex Learning Center is to offer a venue for academics, staff, and students to interact and collaborate across professions A variety of activities, such as studying, research, meetings, and socialising, can be done in the facility

B- The "horizontal campus" concept is the foundation of the Rolex Learning Centre's design To achieve this concept, The structure has a continuous, undulating floor that imparts a sense of movement and flows across the spaces

The structure is characterized by a sequence of curved and sloping surfaces that provide separate zones and places for diverse activities instead of typical walls or barriers

E- The building spans a single, uninterrupted space of 20,000 m², providing a seamless array of services, libraries, information centers, discussion areas, study areas, restaurants, cafes and beautiful outdoor spaces Its innovative architecture comprises gentle slopes and terraces that undulate around a series of internal patios, as well as nearly invisible supports for its complex, curved roof, which entailed entirely new construction methods

G- The interior of the Rolex Learning Centre is made up of flexible, multipurpose rooms To accommodate various users ' and activities' needs, furniture and equipment can be moved around and rearranged With its big windows and skylights that let in daylight and fresh air, the building also makes use of natural lighting and ventilation

L- Design Theories used by the architect are Deconstruction, Minimalism, Flexibility and Sustainability

These can be seen achieved with the undulating and non flat form of the building, focusing on essential forms and materials, spaces that can adapt to changing needs, incorporating natural ventilation and lighting, and the use of sustainable materials

This case study has helped me learn how a complex and organic space can be achieved with the most simple design strategies In my project, i have taken into consideration the undulating floor of the rolex learning centre into my own ramp to space concept Instead of a horizontal campus, my project follows a more perimeterical form, which even though not same yet similar in visual aesthethics I have understood that making a complex out there design project which does not fit to the surrounding context is not always the best option, thus i have simplified my design while taking in the openness by including polycarbonate glass throughout the walls of my project (rather than glass) just like this case study to allow light penetration as well as give the user an open feel

Seasonless House

A- The Seasonless House in Vinaroz has an open-plan steel frame polycarbonate sheet that offers insulation and reduces overheating A ventilated air cavity is placed between the polycarbonate sheet and the steel frame before being applied The polycarbonate sheet and polyurethane foam actS as a second layer of thermal insulation This conserves energy while maintaining a cosy interior environment

B- The Seasonless House was built utilising a modular construction method The roof is built with a steel frame and glass wool insulation, and the walls are composed of lightweight polycarbonate panels, the windows are double-glazed and composed of aluminium The flooring are laminate, while the interior walls, ceilings, and both are composed of drywall

C- The project includes double walls made of cellular polycarbonate, simple filters made of undulated polycarbonate, interlocking metallic tiles, and various glasses depending on the connections of the climate on either of its sides

D- Clean lines, contemporary materials, and a simple interior design characterise the Seasonless House in Vinaroz's aesthetics A steel roof structure and polycarbonate panels on the façade give the building a modern appearance Modern furnishings, neutral shades, and natural materials like wood and stone are used throughout the decor The house also has an open plan design, which creates a light and airy feeling

E- The Details of the Seasonless house is more focused on giving the space a sense of a closed as well as an open environment, With the Use of various thicknesses of polycarbonate panels, the architect provided the occupants with transparency as well as privacy in regards to spaces and activity zones The Steel structure along with the polycarbonate panels gives out a very aesthetically pleasing detail work from within the interiors as well as the exteriors for passerbys

This case study has made me realise the importance of having the sense of openness as well as keeping privacy in mind without losing design aesthethics and also keeping into mind external factors of the site such as weather etc The seasonless house even though less known is a prime example of how sustainable buildings can be simple yet beautiful With the addition of polycarbonate panels with complimentary steel framing structure, this house has inspired me to use different thicknesses of polycarbonate panels depending on the facing side For example 35mm thick polycarbonate sheet for walls facing bad views or spaces that require privacy 60mm thick polycarbonate sheet for places where sunlight penetration should be at miniumum such as north and east facing walls 15-20mm thick polycarbonate sheets for spaces with maximum sunlight penetration such as my garden or spaces which have great views and adequate shading It is a lightweight and sustainable building material with low carbon footprint for an elegant design