ARCH501 Thesis, Safe box by Dania Najee

A thesis book for the Final Architectural Project submitted to the Department of Architecture, School of Architecture, Art, and Design, American University in Dubai In partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Architecture Fall 2020

Approval of the Thesis Book for Final Architectural Project Department of Architecture,

School of Architecture, Art, and Design, American University in Dubai

Student’s Full Name: Danyia Jamil Najee

Thesis Book Title: Safe Box - Preservation of Seeds in the UAE

Student Signature:

Date: December 13th. 2020

Professor Name: Annarita Cornaro Professor Signature:

Date:

Acknowledgments I would like to express my gratitude to all those who were involved in the completion of this thesis and in particular: Professor Annarita Cornaro, for her guidance and advice My family, for their support and their constant confusion on why i’m not designing a building this semester My friends, for their support and encouragement

Thank you

SAFE BOX Preservation of Seeds in the UAE By Danyia Najee

Safe Box

Seeds are a form of life and the foundation of plant kingdom on earth and the food chain. The world is rapidly developing resulting in loss of our connection with seeds, a sacred bond that must be restored “Seeds are the one thing that are the only genuine promise we have of the future” (Shiva 53). To properly re-establish the connection with seeds, greater efforts should be exerted to secure the longevity and well-being of seeds which can be achieved through seed banks/vaults. Although Seed Vaults offer the best way to ensure seed safety and diversity, they fall short on developing crop diversity. In the UAE, crop diversity is absent due to the challenging climate and infertile land, which lead the UAE to be highly dependent on exotic plants that prevent capitalizing on the native plants in the country. UAE can work on enhancing crop biodiversity, lessen dependency on exotic/imported seeds and preserve native seeds in a safe area, despite the challenging environment, for the goal of enhancing self-sufficiency in ways to be further explored in this research.

Contents Section I Research 01

Introduction

02 Seed Storage

1.1 Seeds in a conceptual approach

2.1 Why store seeds?

1.2 Seed technology

2.2 Seed distinction

1.2.1 Concept of seed technology 1.3 Goals of seed technology

2.3 Seed Quality 2.4 Storing methods 2.5 Storage

Seeds & the UAE

3.1 UAE’S climate 3.2 UAE and native seeds 3.3 UAE’s Biodiversity 3.4 Landscaping in the UAE 3.5 Growth in UAE’s biodiversity 3.6 Salinity in the UAE

Section II Program & site analysis 04 Data collection & observations

05 Programming & Spatial Analysis

4.1 Intro to case studies

5.1 Space program

4.2 Botanical Research Institute of Texas 4.3 Christchurch botanic gardens 4.4 Australian Plant Bank

06 Site context & analysis 6.1 Site selection

6.2 Context analysis

Section III Concept proposal 07 Thesis summary & synthesis

08 Concept proposal

7.1 Thesis summary

8.1 Mood board 8.2 Concept 1: Berm 8.3 Concept 2: Reveal 8.4 Concept 3: Connect

Section I: Research

Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Seed Storage Chapter 3: Seeds in the UAE

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 Seeds in a Conceptual Approach The Relationship With Humans and Earth

Fig. 1: Seed growth process

Seeds are a form of life. Without them, there would be no source of plant life on earth. One may not realize how much importance a seed holds, with sun, soil and water, a tiny seed can transform into a life giving gift. The seed can be considered as the beginning and the end of the entire plant’s life, it is the soul of the fruit. Once the seed is planted, it starts growing and developing into a plant through the earth’s soil and nutrition, as it develops it eventually matures enough to produce new seeds. The seed is therefore the start and the end, it is what completes the plant’s life cycle. We must understand and appreciate the connection we humans have with seeds, as we are both living on this earth. If we lose our connection to seeds, we lose our connection to earth. Because it is earth that blessed us with seeds. According to author and Sufi mystic Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee, today we’ve lost our connection to the life-giving properties of seeds as a by-product of our highly industrialized and “materialistic” culture. In today’s world, as we buy our packaged products, far away from the cycles of planting, we are drifting away from It is important to think about, and that is how much of a value and impact seeds have in our lives, which will help us to restore the connection we have had (Seeds Are A Sacred Metaphor For Life And Renewal, Say These Faiths). In the past generations, the native people never took the seeds in their land for granted, as they knew they are a precious gift that symbolizes love and trust from the divinities, they knew their lives are dependent on the welfare of the seeds, which

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1.2

1.1

what link us to earth. That is why we need to strengthen our bond with seeds

“When eating a fruit, take a moment to think about its seed and the cycle it’s been through for it to turn into something so vital.”

We must think of it in that way because

We must realize that the biodiversity

there is nothing guaranteed for our future

of seeds is in danger now, as explained

but the earth’s sources, and that is seeds.

previously. “When seed is living and regenerative and diverse, it feeds the pol-

Nothing

that is artificial or man-made

linators, the soil organisms, and the an-

is meant to survive. The fact that we

imals, including humans.” (Shiva 35).

have to fight for something so fundamen-

“When seed is non-renewable, bred for

tal in life, shows the struggle of our cur-

chemicals, or genetically engineered ...

rent time: that we have to fight to preserve

diversity disappears” (Shiva 35). In oth-

what is most essential and sacred to life.

er words, the more we depend on artificial ways of farming and breeding, the

According to the environmental activist Dr.

more it harms the biodiversity of seeds,

Vandana Shiva, the agricultural practices

thus effects the entire cycle of life. That is

of genetically modifying crops and prioritiz-

why we need to take measures in order

ing monocultures over multi-crop farming

to secure their biodiversity and longevity.

have made biodiversity plummet in many parts of the world. India once had 200,000 rice varieties before monocultures took hold, she added. Today the country grows just eight globally-traded strains of rice.

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Fig. 2: Rice farmer near Hampi Village

1.2. Seed Technology Even though it is today’s modern world and the globalization it caused, is what lead to a decline in seed biodiversity, thus a loss of connection between us humans and seeds, it also offered us ways in which we can help restore this biodiversity. A field specialized in that is Seed Technology. Before getting into the options seed technology is offering, we must understand what is means. Seed technology to some authors is defined as the following:

“that discipline of study having to do with seed production, maintenance, quality and preservation” (Cowan 1973)

technology as the methods through which the genetic and physical charac-

teristics of seeds could be improved. It involves such activities as variety development, evaluation and release,

seed production, processing, storage and certification (Feistritzer 1975)

Seed Production

Maintenance

Quality

Variety

Storage

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Fig. 2: Diagram summarizing seed technology

In other words, Seed technology is basically an inter disciplinary science that includes a wide range of topics. In its widest sense, ”seed technology includes the development of superior crop plant varieties, their assessment, seed making, seed handling, seed storage, seed testing, seed certification, seed quality control, seed marketing and distribution and research on seed physiology, seed production and seed handling based upon modern botanical and agricultural sciences” (Raikwar 2).

Fig. 3: Seed Planting

Fig. 4: Seed picking for quality test

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Fig. 5: Seed variety

1.2.1 Concept of Seed Technology

To conduct further work on seeds, one must be knowledgeable enough in this field and to know that working on seeds can sometimes be both complicated and tricky. One obstacle the researchers have stumbled upon is the existence of a grain, which shares similar characteristics to a seed. It is important to differentiate between seed and grain, being of seminal significance for agriculture. A seed, strictly speaking, is a "embryo," a living entity that is located in the tissue that maintains or preserves food. The crop relates to the substance (rain, fruit or vegetative propagating substance) expected to be preserved for planting purposes, with reproduction being the central feature. The seed is dramatically superior in terms of seed quality when clinically produced (such as under seed certification), namely Enhanced range, varietal integrity, freedom from weed and other crop seed admixtures, protection of seeds, high germination and vigor, handling of seeds and safe moisture content, etc. On the other side, a grain comprises cereals and seeds intended for human use (Raikwar 2).

Differences between scientifically produced seed and the grain (used as seed)

S. No Seed (Scientifically produced)

Grain (used as seed)

It is the result of well-planned seed

It is the part of commercial produce

programme

saved for sowing or planting purposes

It is the result of sound scientific knowl-

No such knowledge or effort is re-

cessing, storage and marketing facilities. The pedigree of the seed is ensured. It

edge, organized effort, investment on pro- quired Its varietal purity is unknown

can be related to the initial breeders seed During production, effort is made to rogue No such effort is made. Hence, the puout off-types, diseased plants, objec-

rity and health status may be inferior

tionable weeds and other crop plants at appropriate stages of crop growth which ensures satisfactory seed purity and

health. The seed is scientifically processed,

The grain used as seed may be man-

treated and packed and labeled with

ually cleaned. In some cases, prior to

proper lot identity.

sowing it may also be treated. This is

The seed is tested for planting quality

not labeled Routine seed testing is not done

namely, germination, purity, admixture of weed seeds and other crop seeds, seed

health and seed moisture content. The seed quality is usually supervised

(seed certification agency) The seed has to essentially meet the

No such standards apply here. The

“quality standards”. The quality is there-

quality is non-descript and not known.

There is no quality control.

fore well known. The labels, certification tags on the seed containers serves as

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quality marks.

Fig. 6: Seed and Grain distinction table Source: Raikwar, Rudrasen Singh. “PRINCIPLES OF SEED TECHNOLOGY.”

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by an agency not related with production

1.3. Goals of Seed Technology The main goal of seed technology is to ensure the vitality of the seeds, their high quality and to increase agriculture production, which all can be achieved if the following criteria is met:

1 2 3

Rapid multiplication

Plant breeders develop new varieties that results in a higher quality and quantity of seeds. The time consumed to provide the desired quality and quantity of seeds should be considered as a standard of efficiency and competence in the advancement of seed technology in the country.

Time supply

The new improved seeds must be available in timely fashion so it does not disrupt the planting schedule of the farmer.

Cost

The expense of high seed quality should be beyond the control of the average farmer.

Those certain aspects can be done if there are good quality seeds of high yielding varieties (HYVs) are provided. Seeds with high yielding varieties (HYVs) have the qualities of being resilient to diseases, responses strongly to fertilizers, matures early and produces crop of high

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1.2

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Fig. 7: Goals of seed technology is Rapid multiplication, Time supply and Cost

quality and quantity.

Chapter 2:

Seed Storage

2.1 Why Store Seeds? Seeds are made to survive, they are pre-conditioned for continuous reproduction until the environment is suitable for the beginning of a new generation. However, like any other living organism on earth, they eventually stop reproducing and die. Fortunately, both agriculture and nature do not need seeds to last longer than they are meant to, though some species last longer than expected when being under the right conditions. Even though seeds are widely available to us, we should not take this gift for granted. What guarantees the longevity and well-being of seeds is the environment it is growing in, and the environment or climate is an un-stable and risky factor. If there is an imbalance in the soil’s nutrients the seed can be effected, if the farming practices are poor it can lead to crop failure, thus a famine. So many little mistakes can be unintentionally done that affect the life of seeds, that is why need to take measures to preserve them, to ensure the continuity of seed biodiversity and to avoid their extinction. A common method that is done to protect seeds is Seed Storage. Seed storage can be done in many ways, whether it’s by drying

Those seeds can be divided into two catego-

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ries: Orthodox seeds and Recalcitrant Seeds.

2.2

as some types adapt better than the others.

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span of the stored seeds depends on their type,

2.1

the seeds or freezing them. However, the life

2.2 Seed Distinction Seeds fall under two main categories and their characteristic is what makes them possible

to be stored in certain ways, the two types are Orthodox seeds and Recalcitrant Seeds.

Orthodox Seeds

Orthodox Seeds are ideal for storing. They are long-lived seeds that can endure freezing temperatures and drying with a 5% moisture content only without losing its vitality. By the time they reach maturity, their moisture content is about 30-50%. Some of the most common Orthodox seeds are guava, banana, apple and cherry seeds. (Raikwar 25)

30-50%

Fig. 8: Orthodox seeds temp. & moisture content levels

Recalcitrant Seeds

Recalcitrant Seeds are not the best for storing. They are short-lived seeds that cannot handle freezing temperatures nor survive without a moisture content below 30%. Their moisture content is what makes it hard to store because with high moisture content, microbial contamination can be easily caused which leads to quick seed deterioration. And when exposing these seeds to freezing temperatures, it causes a formation of ice crystals,

50-70%

which mess up the seed’s cell membranes and leads to a freezing injury. Recalcitrant Seeds are found in the moist tropics (Coffee, cacao, citrus) where the moist level is high. They are usually covered with their fruit’s

30%

juicy layer and the seed is coated with a layer that prevents the fluids of the fruit to get to it. By the time they reach maturity, their moisture

Fig. 9: Recalcitrant seeds temp. & moisture content levels

content is higher than orthodox seeds (5070%) but their embryo size is much smaller than orthodox seeds, it is about 15% of an orthodox seed embryo. Most of attempts at storing Recalcitrant Seeds have centered on the use of endogenous seed inhibitors such as abscisic acid or the substitution of high

tures without causing the development of

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2.4

ice crystals and eventual damage to seeds.

2.2

able effective storage even at low tempera-

2.3

as sugar or ethylene glycol in order to en-

2.1

water content with other substances such

Fig. 10: Orthodox tropical W~Wseeds

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Fig. 11: Recalcitrant seeds

2.3 Seed Quality By learning the differences between categories

Seed moisture

of seeds, Orthodox or Recalcitrant, it is now easier and clearer to know which seeds can be successfully stored or not. With the characteristics Orthodox Seeds have, one can say they are most likely so be stored because of their durability. However, it is vague to have such an

Genetic factors

assumption by knowing the category of seed, that is only a tip of an iceberg. We must know the qualities of the seed to know whether it can last in storage or not. There are factors that impact the quality of the seed such as: Seed moisture, Genetic factors, Insects and mites, Initial

Insects & Mites

seed quality and Pre & post-harvest conditions.

Initial seed quality

Pre & post-harvestconditions

Fig. 12: Seed quality characteristics

Seed moisture

The moisture content of the seed is one of the most important aspects affecting the possibility of the seed’s survival during storage. The increase of moisture range affects longevity of seeds in a negative way as it increases the chance of deterioration. As a general rule, the possibility of seed storing increases in double with a 1% decrease in seed moisture, this applies when the seed moisture range is between 4 to 14%. Problems occur when the percentage of moisture increases (12-14%) and the increase leads to mold growth. Moreover, temperature also plays a role as it’s its increase leads to an escalation in the biological activity of seeds as well as insects and mold. The temperature, whether it is high or low, noticeably has a an effect on seeds with a high moisture content. High moisture content clearly has a huge influence on the longevity of seed. However, very low moisture content has just the same effect. Seeds with a very low moisture content (4% or less) could be injured due to extreme dryness, the dryness can also damage the seed membrane structure. Since it is clear that the moisture content has a huge influence on the life span

seeds are going to be stored for, their type and the type

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of storage method they’d be subject to. (Raikwar 27)

2.2

that, the safe moisture level depends on how long the

2.3

percentage that is safe enough to store them. Adding to

2.1

of seeds, it is essential to dry the seeds to reach to a

Genetic factros

Some seeds of specific species are genetically and chemically engineered for longer storing periods than other seeds under the same conditions. Majority of seeds with a longer life span belong to species with a rough, impermeable seed coat. In general, seed species that contain high content of oil do not survive long in storage in compare to those with a low oil content. The percentage of oil contained in the embryo part of the seed is what is responsible for the quality of storing (Raikwar 26).

Insects & Mites Insects and Mites have a large impact on seeds, especially in tropical climates. Studies show that Weevils, or flour beetles are hardly active under low temperatures (18-20°C) and moisture levels (8%). As the temperature increases to 30-35°C and moisture content goes up to 15%, the more destructive impact the Weevils have on seeds (Raikwar). For an ideal protection from insects and mites, it is recommended to store the seeds at a moisture content less than 10% and at a temperature less than 20°C (Raikwar 29). 20

Pre & post-harvest conditions

Environment factors usually do not have a major effect on the seed’s ability to live and survive. However there are certain scenarios that can have a clear impact on its well-being such as premature harvesting that disturbs the ripening process. Adding to that, seeds that are exposed to extreme weather conditions such as freezing temperatures, extreme heat or humidity/moisture all can severely diminish the longevity of seeds. Mechanical damage inflicted causing in the harvesting process can severely damage the seeds. Mechanical damage simply means the damage caused by the physical processes of handling seeds (Andrews). For example, large seeds such as Cereal are hardly prone to mechanical injury due to their protective layers, lemma and palea. Also, irregularly and elongated shaped seeds suffer much more damage than small seeds and seeds that are spherical in shape (Raikwar 28).

Initial seed quality The

physical

condition

and

physiologi-

cal state of seeds can affect their life-span in a significant way. Seeds that have been

on its physiological maturity and therefore reduce the seed’s longevity (Raikwar 27). 21

2.2

process can have a direct negative effect

2.3

vironment surrounding the seed development

2.4

healthy seeds. The stress caused by the en-

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ly worse much more faster than unharmed,

2.1

fractured or cracked become progressive-

2.4 Storing Methods By understanding the different types of seeds and knowing what factors play a role in their quality and longevity, the choice of deciding which method to follow in terms of storing the seeds should be easier. In general, there are two main methods of storing seeds, it is either Seed Drying or Cold Storage. Each have their own advantages as one works better than the other depending on the type of seed.

1 2

Seed Drying Permits early harvest Permit long term storage Maintain seed quality

Cold Storage

Allows storage for ling periods of time Maintans seed quality and vatility

Seed Drying According to Bioversity International, a global research-for-development organization, seed drying is the reduction of seed moisture content to the recommended levels for

seed storage, using techniques which will not be detrimental to seed viability

Using the safe techniques is what is essential in this method because it is what will guarantee the seed viability and will avoid mold growth and an increase in micro-organism activity (Raikwar 18). If Seed Drying is done correctly it can achieve the following: 1. Permits early harvest 2. Permit long term storage 3. Maintain seed quality To go deeper into seed drying, it can be done

mainly by two ways. Either Sundrying or

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2.2

2.1

Forced air drying.

Sun drying This is a simple, cost saving method that is done without the use of any special equipment. The first step is done on field by lowering the moisture content of the seed before harvest. Later on, the seeds are left on the threshing floor to get dried naturally by the sun. The disadvantage of this method is that it relies heavily on the weather conditions, which can cause a delay in the harvest. And even if the seeds are harvested under the right weather condition, changed in weather can happen while they’re being naturally dried which could ruin them. Other than weather conditions, the seeds can be exposed to mechanical admixtures which leads to their deterioration. If Sundrying is the method to be performed, the following precautions should be taken to insure the success of the process. 1. The Harvest should not be spread on wet or dirty land (Raikwar 18). 2. Avoid the mixture of crops in order to put enough care and attention into one variety to avoid low-quality production and the mixture with mechanical admixtures (Raikwar).

Fig. 13: Sun drying requieries low moisture content, Sun & proper weather conditions

Forced Air-drying In this method, the seeds are exposed to air by force. As the air is put on wet seeds, the water evaporates and results in a decline in both the air and the seed’s temperature (Raikwar19). Forced air-drying has three main methods. 1.

Natural air-drying: This is a simple method

which requires only natural air. 2. Drying with supplemental heat: This method works by raising the temperature of the air in order to reduce humidity. The ideal temperature raise would be to reach 10° C and not to exceed 20° C to avoid a rapid incline in the seed’s temperature which can cause its deterioration. 3. Heated Air-drying: This method is extreme as the air is heated to about 40° C. Heated Air-drying is the preferred method as it is faster and more efficient than the first two. However, it can be a complex process as it requires special drying bins or wagons which are spe-

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cial structures that need proper construction.

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Fig. 14: Forced air-drying includes natural drying and heated drying

Fig. 15: manual traditional drying process of rice grain

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Fig. 16: Heated Air-drying

Cold Storage Cold storage is a method done by storing

the seed in storage area with very low temperatures.

Cold storage is a method that is the complete opposite of Seed Drying. It is done by storing the seed in storage area with very low temperatures. Cold storage is a common method used at seed banks. The process is done by drying the seed enough to reach the optimal moisture content, then its quality and genetic purity is evaluated. It is important to run a background check on the seeds to guarantee that the seeds that will be stored will live long enough and not deteriorate. After choosing the seeds, the last step is simply done by placing the seeds in moisture-proof containers. Even though it is the cold temperature is what makes it possible for a seed to be stored, it is also the exact temperature is what decides on how long the seed can be stored for.

Fig. 17: Seeds requiere low tempretures and safe storing in cold storage

According to the Seed Biotechnology Center, For short-term storage, seeds are dried and placed in sealed containers at 5°C. They are stored at temperatures below freezing for long-term preservation (0°F or -20°C), including the use of cryopreservation, or freezing in or over liquid nitrogen at -180°C, for extremely long-term storage (Seed Storage/Conservation). However, even when put under the perfect cold conditions, the seed’s viability can decline over the time. That is why it is extremely important for the seeds to be removed out of storage and used to produce a new crop of seeds (Seed Storage/Conservation). When it comes to cold storage, it should be kept in mind that it does not work for all types

30-50%

of seeds. As mentioned previously there are two types of seeds, Orthodox and Recalcitrant Seeds. Recalcitrant Seeds are short-lived seeds that cannot handle freezing temperatures nor survive without a moisture content below 30%, this means that Recalcitrant Seeds cannot be stored successfully. The only way to guarantee the longevity of Recalcitrant Seeds is to work

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2.2

2.1

on the constant re-productivity of their plants.

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Fig. 18: Short term storage requiers 5°C, long-term storage needs -180°C and seeds below 30% moisture content cannot be stored

Fig. 19: Vault Interior, Svalbard Global Seed Vault

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Fig. 20: Seed sample in cold storage facility

2.5 Storage

With cold storage being the ideal and most preferred method in Seed storage. It is worth to mention the one of the best facilities in the world to store seeds is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. Located on a remote island halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. The Svalbard Global Seed Vault currently holds 1,057,151 samples from all over the world and has a 4.5 million variety capacity and requieres a minimum tempreture of -18°C. The Seed Vault is the best way to ensure seed safety and diversity.

4.5M variety capacity

-18°C tempreture requiered

Fig. 21: Svalbard Global Seed Vault characteristics

1,057,151

samples in the vault

Adding to the topic of cold storage, it is not only the preferred storage method for seeds, but for other fields as well, such as Gene banks. Gene banks are a type of biorepository which

preserve

genetic

material

and

use the method of cold storage. There are several types of gene banks such as Tissue banks which work on harvesting, processing, storage and transportation of human tissues for

clinical

use

(Narayan).

Ova

Banks

or Egg cell bank is a facility that collects and stores the female egg to be able to donate it to those seeing a pregnancy. All these banks use the same method but on different subjects,

2.5 2.4. 2.3. 2.2. 2.1.

all for the purpose of preserving biodiversity.

Fig. 22: Svalbard Global Seed Vault enterance

Fig. 23: Tissue bank

2.5 2.4. 2.3. 2.2. 2.1.

Fig. 24: Eggs stored in Ova banks

Chapter 3:

Seeds & the UAE

3.1 UAE’s climate

Fig. 25: UAE desert oasis

After conducting research on seeds, looking at how deep their roots are imbedded into earth makes much more sense now. This symbolizes how deep and complex seeds are. As we look at plants that surround us here in the UAE, we must now wonder the odds of those seeds surviving storing. Located in the Asian continent, along the southeast shore of the Arabian Gulf, the UAE is a place of extremes. From its skyscrapers

whether it’s the agriculture, animal or plant life. For the most part, the tough climate have had a major impact on the plant life in the UAE. 37

3.5 3.4

that the UAE has effects on its natural aspects,

3.3

humidity and low rainfall. The extreme climate

3.2

it is characterized for its high temperature, high

3.1

UAE’s climate is also considered to be extreme,

3.6

to sand dunes, wadis to waterless land. The

As it is generally known, majority of plants and crops require a moderate climate, fertile land and average rainfall. Unfortunately, UAE has none of that. According to the climate recordings

83,000 km2

done by the National Center of Meteorology, the mean annual temperature in the country is 27°C, while the maximum temperature in the summer can reach up to 48°C. Adding to that, with the country’s location being next to a body of water, it is also normal to have high levels of humidi-

80% of tot. area

ty. The average humidity in the country reaches to about 56.4%, while the maximum humidity reaches to about 84% in the whole country, while in the coastal areas it can reach 97%. With the high levels of humidity and the UAE being situat-

Mean annu. 27°C Max. 48°C

ed next to the Arabian gulf, one might think that it rains enough, however it does not (UAE Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries). The average rainfall in the country varies from 7 to 380mm, and this varies based on the geological zone. The UAE mainly comprises of three different

Avg. 56.4% Max. 84-97%

geological zones; Mountains, Coastal lowlands and the biggest par, the desert. The mountains in the UAE cover a small portion of its area. They start from the northeast of Dibba to the southeast of Al Ain. The coastal lowlands stretch along UAE’s western coastline, which covers 6 out of

7 - 380mm

the 7 cities in the UAE. And with the UAE’s total area of 83,000 sq. km, 80% of this area is covered with the third geological zone, the desert, thus where the lowest amounts of rain is.

Fig. 26: UAE climate

The mountains receive most of rain which is about 153.1mm while the desert receives about 86.1mm. Since the country’s major part is the hot desert, and it being the lowest receiver of rain, it is expected that the country’s plant life would suffer, because the extreme temperatures and the low rainfall have a direct effect on the soil of the UAE. Temperature and rainfall play a major role in the level of dryness in the land. Mean Monthly Rainfall

Average Temperature (°C)

Precipitation (mm/month)

Mean Air Temp (°C)

Fig. 27: Climatic diagram for the UAE. Rainfall data from 1965 to 2000; temperature data from 1990 to 2000

The diagram shows how the land is considered

temperature line greatly exceeds the rainfall line

3.1

3.2

3.3

which makes the land of the UAE extremely dry.

3.5

the UAE, it is the complete opposite. The high

3.4

ceeds the temperature line. And in the case of

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wet, which is possible when the rainfall line ex-

Fig. 28: UAE desert

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Fig. 29: Polygonal crust at Sabkha Matti surface,

3.2 UAE & native seeds

The harsh environmental conditions surrounding the UAE have a great effect on all flora and fauna. Due to the limitations of plant species that are able to survive in such conditions. It is rare to have naturally occurring plants in this environment, and even so those species are subject to extension. Therefore, numerous efforts should be taken to conserve those plants

4500

in order to manage them sustainably. Sharjah Seed Bank & Herbarium is a facility located in Abd Dhabi, UAE that is dedicated to this matter. The Sharjah Seedbank and Herbarium (SSBH) is a research facility that is part of Sharjah Research Academy that is focused on exploring and securing UAE’s flora outside of its natu-

+50%

ral habitat. It has herbarium collection spaces with 4500 samples from different regions in the country and houses samples for more than 50% of UAE’s flora. Adding to that, it stores around 1710 native seeds. SSBH also focuses on the

1710

research of genetic diversity and the DNA barcoding of UAE’s flora. (“Sharjah Research Academy”) The facility’s efforts towards the conservation of UAE’s native plants are significant and more light should be shed on their work.

Fig. 30: SSBH has 4500 samples, more than 50% of UAE’s flora & 1710 native seeds stores

However, the facility’s work and field of focus lacks some aspects that can be vital towards the safety of UAE’s plants and the country’s biodiversity. First, the facility’s work is primarily focused on local or native species in the UAE, it works on storing them and learning more about them. It is focusing on what we have now, the present, rather than the future. With the current climate crisis that the globe is facing, it is clear to us by now that the conditions we are in will not stay the way they are. And it terms of climate change, it is only getting worse. Since the UAE’s climate is harsh and has been proven over the years that it is getting worse, it is already hard for some plants to survive. According to the statistics of the Ministry of Environment and Water, the UAE has witnessed an increase in its temperature over the past 30-40 years. The temperature increase was recorded in all 7 emirates and the averaged between 0.6

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

°C to 2.7°C (National Centre of Meteorology).

Ras Al Khaimah

Fujeirah

Sharjah Al Ain

Dubai Abu Dhabi Fig. 31: Increase in Temp. over the years in the UAE

Station

Years of Study Change in Temp. (°C)

Abu Dhabi Airport

1982

2013

2.3

Dubai International Airport

1975

2013

2.7

Sharjah International Airport

1976

2013

1.8

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport

1977

2013

1.5

Fujairah International Airport

1988

2013

0.6

Al Ain International Airport

1994

2013

0.6

Fig. 32: Change in temp. table Source: MOEAW. “State of Environment Report of the United Arab Emirates 2015.”

Fig. 33: Sultan Al Qasimi inaugurates Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

Fig. 34: Eight species discovered in UAE

3.3 UAE’s Biodiversity

Although the government is putting efforts into preserving the seeds, it is not being mindful to the shift in climate. So instead of taking measures into insuring their safety by preserving them in safe storages, why not explore and work on ways that can make these plants adapt to the harsh conditions? And what is more important, why not engineer their seeds to adapt to even worse conditions? The worst case scenario should be taken into consideration, which is why the storing method should also be one that guarantees the longevity and vitality of the seeds for a long period of time. As discussed in chapter 2.3. the ideal storage method is cold storage. Depending on the temperature used, it will determine for how long the seeds can be stored for. The Sharjah Seedbank and Herbarium (SSBH) mission and aim is to conserve UAE’s native plant biodiversity for present and future generations but it is not using one of the most suitable ways to do so, cold storing. There must be a space dedicated to that matter not because it is one of the safest methods to guarantee the longevity of the seed, but because it also works on UAE’s native seeds. However, as explained earlier, cold storage does not work on all types of seeds, the Orthodox and Recalcitrant seeds.

Orthodox seeds are long-lived seeds that can endure freezing temperatures and drying with a 5% moisture content only, while Recalcitrant seeds are short-lived seeds that cannot handle freezing temperatures nor survive without a moisture content below 30%. The UAE has a number of Orthodox seeds such as Wheat, Tomato, Cucumber and Eggplant. In knowing so, one might say that using cold storing facilities in the UAE does work and should be implemented. Even though cold storage facilities are recommended to guarantee the life of seeds, and is in a way sustainable because it works on preserving something that already exists instead of wasting natural resources, money, time and effort into developing something completely new. It is however unsustainable it terms of working with UAE’s climate. Cold storage requires very low temperatures that in many times can reach below zero, and by knowing UAE’s hot climate, even in winter the temperature does not drop to that extent. To be able to achieve cold storage facilities in the UAE, a lot

is operated must be sustainable, the source of its energy, the location, the materials used. A micro-

3.1

3.2

3.3

climate must be created to make this space work.

3.5

cility somehow “sustainable” the way this space

3.4

created, to be able to consider a cold storage fa-

3.6

of effort and thinking must be put into the space

3.4 Landscaping in the UAE In order for the maximization in effort, ways and efficiency of the current storage and research policies in the UAE and the methods used, what it would be receiving in terms of seeds or plants should be enough to make the establishment of such facilities possible. The thing about UAE’s desert ecosystem is that it has low biodiversity, with high temperatures and low rainfall comes low biodiversity. Despite the extreme arid conditions, the UAE has more than 700 plant species from diverse habitats, whether they are for cultivation or not. But with the increasing population in the UAE, its desert and other geographical zones are being occupied with huge urban and landscaping developments. This erosion lead to an endangerment to the biodiversity of the UAE and has put it under the threat of extension. Therefore, the number 700 does not seem to be as diverse as we thought. Adding to that, the flora of the UAE has be given very little attention (Jongbloed et al.). To cope with the urban developments in the country, the establishment of greeneries and beautiful urban landscapes is required. The problem lays here as most of the urban landscapes seen around the UAE are composed primarily of non-native species.

Non-native plant species are a burden to both the economy and the environment. Because those exotic plants are mostly imported from temperate or semi-temperate regions to a hot, dry climate they require high maintenance and need an extensive support systems in order to adapt to the major change and to keep them alive. Moreover, they require high irrigation requirements and a significant amount of care by the gardeners to establish the aesthetic views Non-native Can adapt

that are inspired by western landscape designs (Frenken). The heavy reliance on exotic plants causes a loss in UAE’s original plant and seed biodiversity. Adding to that, it causes a confusion in not knowing which plants are native and which are non-native. The main problem here is not the use of non-native plants, non-native can mean two things; plants that are brought to a country and have no potential of adapting to the host country’s climate conditions, in other words, exotic plants. The other type of non-na-

Non-native

tive are those species that are imported but have

Exotic

ronment, because they are brought from regions

the capability of adapting to the changed envi-

UAE is using in its landscape is exotic plants,

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

hence why most need substantial support.

3.6

that share similar climate conditions. What the

3.1

Can’t adapt

Fig. 35: Non-native species being planted in Dubai’s

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

Fig. 36: Native palm trees in Dubai

3.5 Growth in UAE’s biodiversity As the excessive reliance on exotic plants in the UAE comes with a high cost and threatens its biodiversity, more care and effort must be put into the native species in the UAE, and as mentioned previously in chapter 3.4, with the relatively low biodiversity the UAE has, chances are what the exotic plants are doing in terms of beautifying the urban landscapes would not be as successful when using native plants. The solution to this would be to introduce more species into UAE’s flora in a sustainable way. Plant species are divided into three main sections namely native, naturalized and introduced.

Native

Naturalized

naturally occur within the UAE

species that are from outside the UAE but can be found growing within the UAE in many locations.

Introduced species that are non-native but with only single or few records within the UAE and these species have the potential to become naturalized.

The focus here would be on the Introduced species, bringing more species from similar climates would increase the biodiversity of UAE’s plant life and those new species would be necessarily considered ‘exotic’ as they fit into UAE’s conditions. This method has been proven to work as some research has been already done on this matter regarding the grasses in the UAE. The table below lists some of the native, naturalized and introduced grasses in the UAE.

Browntop Millet

Zoysia Grass

•

Perennial Mountain grass

•

Aprox. 100cm

•

Unique crossed spikelet

•

Used as fodder for livestock

•

Ornamental lawn grass

•

3-10 cm

•

Sharp and pointed ends to resist coastal winds

•

Annual grass

•

Aprox. 70cm

•

Spikelets seen in pairs

Forms a spongy dense carpet

Japan

Fig. 37: Chart illustrating native, naturalized and introduced plants

Tropical Africa to Asia

3.1

UAE

3.2

3.3

3.4

Origin

3.5

3.6

Location in UAE

Description

Grass name

Lemon Grass

As the this method seems to be working successfully in terms of grass, it is crucial to start exploring with trees, as the urban landscape depends heavily on them. The table below introduces Native trees in the UAE and suggestions for non-native trees that have the potential to be Introduced. Native Date Palm Tree

•

Can reach to 25m

•

Can reach to 23m

•

Ideal for shading

•

Leaves spike from the end

•

Good fodder for camels and wild animals

•

Produces sweet dates

Origin

Location in UAE

Description

Tree name

Ghaf Tree

Western Asia & Indian Subcontinent

Middle East

Fig. 38: Chart suggesting Introduced plants that can adapt in the UAE

Non-native Laperrine's Olive Tree

•

Thick and rubber leaves

•

Yellow flower

Tobacco Tree

•

Drough resistant

North America

3.1

African Sahara Desert

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

•

3.6 Salinity in the UAE By learning ways in which we can increase UAE’s biodiversity without the use of Exotic plants, what makes them exotic is their inability to adapt to UAE’s harsh climate, and what makes the Introduced and Naturalised plant’s implementation successful is how their characteristics are similar to the native plants, they adapt well with heat and low rainfall. But the most important aspect is their adaptation to salinity. A lot of regions are hot with low rainfall, but that does not mean they suffer from high soil and water salinity. Salinity refers to the level of salt in the water and soil, it is a common aspect in arid environments, like the UAE. Plants in arid environments are categorized in two groups: Xerophytes and Mesophytes

Xerophytes

Mesophytes

Plants with no special adaptation skills

Drought-resistant plants that are

to environmental extremes, they require

found

water in moderate levels in order to sur-

They consist of the thinly scat-

vive and grow well. In the UAE, this group

tered perennial vegetation that

is found in the irrigated areas and by

covers the south, west and north-

ephemeral desert plants (Karim et al. 19)

east of the UAE (Karim et al. 19)

outside

irrigated

areas.

And in to reference to salinity, there are two types of plants:

Halophytes

Glycophytes

Plants capable of growing in ar-

Plants incapable of growing in areas

eas with high levels of salt con-

with high level of concentration of So-

centration

dium and other salts (Karim et al. 19)

(Karim

al.

19)

Salinity is a serious issue that faces the land of the UAE. According to the estimation by The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in 1994, 12% of UAE’s land was affected by salts from various origins. And recent studies show that 25% of the area is now affected by salt. The high levels of salinity does not mean that plants are no longer capable of growing in such lands, but the plants chosen must be suitable for this environment. Halophytic plants could possibly be suitable for growth in those lands. As the salinity plays a major role in UAE’s environment and has a huge impact on its biodiversity, it is a deeper issue that one might think. But by having enough knowledge about it we would be able to know which species would be able to survive in it or not. And with that, it would ensure the contin-

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

uation of UAE’s biodiversity and its safety.

Fig. 39: Cyperus alternifolius L. - Highly salt tolerant. Naturalized and cultivated.

3.1

3.2

3.3

3.4

3.5

3.6

Fig. 40: Cressa cretica L. - Extremely salt tolerant up to seawater salinity

Section II:

Program & Site analysis

Chapter 4: Data Collection and Observations Chapter 5: Programming and Spatial Analysis Chapter 6: Site Context and Analysis

Chapter 4:

Data Collection & Observations

4.1 Introduction to Case Studies

This chapter includes a selection of projects from around the world that share the same characteristics and ideas that my thesis revolves around. By conducting a deeper analysis on these projects, this would help me understand where my topic belongs, the space it needs and where it should be. The projects that will be discussed in this chapter are the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, Christchurch Botanic garden and Australian Plant Bank. Which all share the similarity of being spaces dedicated to pre-

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

serve seeds and maintain their longevity.

4.2 Botanic Research Institute of Texas

Fig. 41: Botanic Research Institute of Texas

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Client Botanical Research Institute of Texas Architect

H3 Hardy Collaboration Architecture Location

1700 University Drive, Fort Worth, Texas, USA Established 2011 Size

70,000 square feet Cost

$25,000,000

Project Brief

The Botanical Research Institute of Texas is an international scientific research and learning center focused on conservation and knowledge sharing. BRIT has a variety of functions that all serve the purpose of plant research and conservation. Concept

The concept behind BRIT is to provide a space that is focused on conservation and knowledge sharing of plant species. BRIT provides housing administration and research offices, education department, exhibit area, and public spaces, and the “Archive Block”, housing the herbarium and library. The design of BRIT also corresponds with its idea, BRIT aspires to reduce its footprint on the natural world as well as protect and restore ecosystem services, it does that through the smart design of the building. BRIT building includes Sustainable features such as stormwater management, geothermal wells, solar panels, reclaimed and recycled materials, a green roof, and many others. 66

Fig. 42: BRIT site map

Think Block Reasrach Library

4.4

4.5

4.3

Archive Block

Fig. 43: Concept diagram

Fig. 44: BRIT top view with 3D massing

4.1

4.2

Seed storage

Key Element Sustainability

Rain gardens

Restoration of Prairie habitat

In parking lots rain gardens are shallow

While developing the site, BRIT put a lot

depressions near runoff sources. Planted

of care to the preserve the existing trees

with deep-rooted native plants and grasses,

and plant native grasses of the local prai-

they collect surface runoff, protect sewers

rie. The LEED credit requires that at least

from flooding, nourish indigenous plants,

50% of a developed site be restored to a

and help reduce pollution and erosion

viable ecosystem. BRIT restored over 76%.

Vegetative living roof

Solar panels and Geothermal wells

The adjective ‘green’ has come to mean

BRIT uses cylindrical-designed photovol-

something

environmentally

responsible.

taic tubes mounted on 285 solar panels. It

Which applies to BRIT’s roof – a carpet of

covers 5,943 square feet and is installed on

plants that insulates the building (cuts heat-

the Archive Block roof of the BRIT facility.

ing and cooling needs) it also reduces rain-

The photovoltaic system provides approx-

water runoff, improves durability, provides

imately 14% of the building’s annual elec-

habitat for native plants, butterflies, and birds.

tricity requirements. BRIT also takes advantage of the earth’s constant temperature with 166 geothermal wells, drilled beneath the parking lot and landscape. It is an pioneering technology that allows us to cut

Retention pond:

the heating and cooling loads by over 50%.

The retention pond captures the stormwater from the roof and parking lots, and reuses the water runoff. Most of the BRIT site does not need irrigation, the storm water collected can efficiently supply the irrigation.

Fig. 46: BRIT sustainable features

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 45: BRIT site map

Fig. 44: BRIT green roof

Fig. 47: BRIT sustainable section

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Materials

BRIT consists of one building with two

departments, the Think Block and the Archive Block, both exteriors are a reflection

the

department’s

function.

Think Block is a two story building that includes administration, research offices and an education department. Therefore, the building›s exterior is a combination of precast concrete panels and glass, with most of the glass located on the north side to bring in most of the light with no direct exposure to the harsh sun, and few openings on the south side. As the building is characterized for its sustainability features, the narrative continues even in its use of materials. Recycled Content Materials were used for over 20% of BRIT’s building materials. Structural steel and steel pipes are one of the many reused materials. And the building’s rubber flooring is made out of recycled tennis shoes and other rubbers like tires and single-ply roofing membrane.

The Archive Block houses the most important part of BRIT, the area where the botanical specimen is collected, sorted and stored. Due to importance and the delicacy of the botanical specimens, they must be stored in a safe, climate controlled area. The specimens are stored in a two-story storage hall, that is a solid box of concrete panels with no windows to provide maximum temperature and humidity controls. 72

Fig. 48: Archive block exterior

Fig. 49: Think block exterior

4.3

4.4

4.5

First Floor Plan

Wall

Fig. 50: BRIT 1st floor plan

4.1

4.2

Glass

Think Block

Fig. 51: Research labs

Fig. 52: BRIT enterance

Archive Block

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 53: Rare book room

Circulation

The circulation in both buildings is mostly linear. The main entrance is located in the

center of the Think Block. The entrance is highlighted by its double height and grand staircase with the reclaimed sinker cypress wall, on both sides of the entrance the main functions are located, leaving the back of house on the ends of the building, the east and west side. The main corridor is longitudinal and located on the south side, the static and defined arrangement of the spaces is what shaped the corridor. The majority of the spaces are closed and the circulation between them is either by the main hallway of the narrow corridors in between. However, the monotony is broken by having terraces after every program.

Ground Floor Plan

Fig. 54: BRIT ground floor plan

Horizontal Circulation

Fig. 55: BRIT first floor plan

Vertical Circulation

4.2

Secondary enterance/Fire exits

4.1

Main enterance

4.3

4.4

4.5

First Floor Plan

Fig. 56: BRIT main staircase

Fig. 58: Hallways inside BRIT

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 57: BRIT staircase with curtain wall

Program

The spaces are distributed based on how private they are. On both sides of the entrance, the public functions are located such as the gift shop, bathrooms and exhibition space. As you go deeper into the building, you start seeing the more private spaces like the library or administration office, or spaces accessible by employees only like specimen processing room and loading area. In the Archive Block department, it houses the collection management, which a combination of public and private spaces. The public ones are placed on the sides of the corridor while the private ones (mostly for employees) are deeper inside.

Ground Floor Plan

Fig. 59: BRIT ground floor plan

Fig. 60: BRIT first floor plan

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

First Floor Plan

Zone

Type

Space

Public

Public space

Gift shop lobby exhibit commons

1 1 1 1

71 341 205 245

Education

Grow lab Resource center Class rooms education offices

1 1 4 6

95 129 150 354

Terraces

Central terrace east terrace west terrace

1 1 1

191 97 93

Library

Library offices Rare book room Burk children’s library reading room library stacks

8 1 1 1 1

127 70 74 78 380

Semi-Public

Administration

Facilities offices Administration offices mailroom

4 11 1

32 116 8

Private

Collections management

Specimen processing Spe. mounting & sorting Collection Offices Staff team roof Database work area

1 1 4 1 2

120 134 133 145 96

Research

Research offices

585

Building Services

467

Herbarium

2195

Brit printing press

BRIT printing press Print room

1 2

61 8 16

Unit

Area m²

Fig. 62: classrooms

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 61: Burk children’s library

4.3 Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Fig. 63: Christchurch Botanic Gardens exterior view

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Client Christchurch City Council Architects

Patterson Associates Location

Christchurch, New Zealand Established 2010 Size

3200 m² Type

Public space facility

Project Brief

Located in the cities most visited space, close to the Avon River, Christchuch Botanic gardens is considered one of the most significant projects since the earthquick that hit christchurch in 2011, the center was dedicated to allow the garden to conduct research on plants and plant biodiversity and to run educational activities all in a space that shows the beauty, variety and complexity of the plant world.

Concept

The concept behind Christchurch botanic gardens is to connect people with plants by creating a space dedicated for people and plants (greenhouse). The building’s design is inspired by the traditional garden glasshouse structure. The space has a variety of functions encourages the connection between the people and plants, starting with the visitor center that includes a greenhose, then a cafe, research laboratories, propagation rooms and many more. 86

4.5 4.4 4.3 87

4.1

4.2

Fig. 64: CBG site plan

Key Element

Form & Roof Design

The building’s glass form has been devel-

oped from a modular commercial greenhouse system. The building plays with trans-

parency, mirrored reflection and the layering of fritted glass to display the workings of a botanic garden while subtly providing staff-only areas. The form also plays a role into the disturbution of space and marking its importance. It starts with public, then semi-public and private. The glass ceilings and skylights form a varied, leafy-like canopy shedding dappled light to the interior. And The installation of the saw tooth roof took four years from start to finish due to the interruption of earthquakes.

4.5

Fig. 65: CBG south facade

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

Fig. 66: CBG Glass house

Public semi-public private Fig. 67: CBG Zoning diagram

4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 91

4.1

Fig. 68: CBG roof

Materials

The building’s exterior is characterized for

its light transparent material to enable the

visitors that are not even inside the build-

ing to have a sort of a connection with the inside, the tarnsparency of the crystalline glass gives a light-weight feeling to the building which is essential as it is surrounded with the nature, trees and a nearby river. The building’s material mainly depends on the spaces provided inside. The building has three main spaces. The public space’s facade is crystalline glass, the semi private is a combination of clear and fritted glass. In the interior, some walls are made out of a plaster with a unique pattern that contiues all the way to the false ceiling. However, the pattern in the false ceiling has hollow spaces in between, to allow the sunlight to enter the space through the glass ceiling.

Fig. 70: Woman in CBG library

Fig. 69: CBG enterance

Fig. 71: CBG ceiling design

Fig. 73: CBG roof with translucent facade

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 72: CBG glass house

Circulation

With the building being disturbuted into 3 main zones, public, semi-public and private.The

transition into these zones is what defines the circulation. The public space is the main

zone as it includes the main enterance, and the functions in it are public however they are defined by walls. So the circulation starts out by being free and very open, then it gets more defined as the functions have 1 or 2 accesses only. In the semi-public space, it mainly consist of the greenhouse and the shade house which include the plants, and due to the distribution and the layout of the plants, the circulation is defined through the linear corridors in between the plants. In the private space, it included offices and functions that are mainly for the employees, so as the offices and closed areas are placed next to each other in a linear way, the corridor is also one long linear one.

4.5 4.4 Fig. 74: CBG circulation diagram

4.1

4.2

4.3

Main enterance Horizonal circlulation Access points

Fig. 75: CBG corridor

4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 97

4.1

Fig. 76: CBG corridor behind metal-mesh

Program

Zones

Space

Public

Unit

Area m²

Enterance Foyer Cafe Multifunction room Laboratory Library Exhibition space Glass house

2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

187 73.7 125 197 52.5 74 88 831

Semi-Public

Glass house Shadehouse

4 2

831 456

Private

Office Staff facilities Potting corridor Vehicle store Workshop

4 3 1 1 1

160 175 230 236.5 77.4

4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 99

4.1

Fig. 77: CBG program diagram

Fig. 78: CBG shadehouse

100

101

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 79: CBG library

4.4 Australian Plant Bank

Fig. 80: Australian plant bank view behind flowers

102

4.1

103

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Client The Royal Botanic Garden & Domain Trust Architects

BVN Donovan Hill Location

Mount Annan NSW 2567, Australia Established 2013

Size

3,300 m² Cost

$19,800,000 Project Brief

The Australian PlantBank, located at the Australian Botanic Garden in Mount Annan, is a science and research facility of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust. It houses the Trust’s seedbank and research laboratories that specialise in native plant conservation. The facility is positioned globally as a symbol of preservation of the natural cycle from the germination of seed to the propagation of forests. Concept

The concept behind the Australian Plant Bank is to create a research facility dedicated to the Australian indigenous seeds while embracing the nature of Australia. The selection of the site, has influenced the form of the building it embraces the remnant endangered Cumberland Plain forest to the north; as the natural character of the forest transitions to the cultivated landscape of the “embraced” courtyard the building literally reflects the merging landscapes. The dialogue between the transitional landscape and the building is a metaphor for the mediated and cultivated land of Australia. 104

Fig. 81: APB Site map

Views to the forest

Connection between two sides and building with nature

4.4

4.5

South

Fig. 82: APB concept diagram

105

4.1

4.2

4.3

North

Key Element Sustainability

Sustainability at PlantBank continues the engagement of the building and domain with its

natural setting. The plan arcs to the north placing the maximum amount of visitor fa-

cade to the sun which is then moderated by a deep wall enabling sunshading. The depth

of the wall also facilitates all weather operability of the glass louvres in the public areas and the workplace. In the workplace, with an open plan spanning from east to west, cross ventilation is assured for a considerable part of the year. The mixed mode facilitates a lesser reliance on mechanical plant resulting in significantly diminished energy consumption.

A thermal labyrinth has been installed under the east wing which reduces the HVAC load and extends natural ventilation,

The system is designed to reduce the peaks and troughs of extreme ambient weather by capturing either the heat of the day or the cool of the night retaining it in the surrounding concrete, earth and rock beds of the constructed labyrinth.

106

4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 107

4.1

Fig. 83: APB sun diagram

Fig. 84: APB unground plan with thermal labyrnith color coded

108

Fig. 85 : APB north view

Fig. 87: APB north east facade

109

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 86: APB thermal labyrnith

Materials

The building’s expression is derived from this visceral relationship between built form and

the land - the concrete base nominally the abstracted earth; the polished stainless steel panels diluting and making ambiguous the

relationship between the built and natural settings; the operable louvres enabling mixed

mode ventilation sealed by stainless steel bushfire mesh; and the form of the building in both plan and expression being deferential to its natural setting. The workplace of the researchers and staff is in a mixed mode environment. Interior finishes have been chosen to articulate the different characters of the building - the laboratories and interpretive areas having visual clarity with the workplaces designed

with timber and a softer working environment.

110

Fig. 88: APB plan with photo location

111

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

1 Glass louvres

Fig. 89: APB Glass louvres

2 stainless steel bushfire mesh

Fig. 90: APB Stainless steel bushfire mesh

3 operable louvres

Fig. 91: APB Operable louvres

112

4 Concrete

Fig. 92: APB Concrete walls

5 polished stainless steel panels

Fig. 93: APB polished stainless steel panels

Fig. 94: APB timber ceiling

113

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

6 timber

Circulation

Going under the east wing of the building - nominally passing under the ground - the building curves to the north and merges with the land toward the extant forest. Walking to the front door the visitor engages the interpretive display that connects the external courtyard with the internal research. The main enterance of the building is located on the north side, to emphsize the connection

between

the

building

and

the forest even more, and from their the the visitor path runs beside the clear glazed laboratories with the external interpretive material focussed on the activities within the labs. In the plant bank, majority of the functions are disturbuted in seperate, enclosed spaces. Therefore, the circulation in those spaces is defined by the walls and the diturbution of the funiture.

114

4.5 4.4 Fig. 95: APB circulation diagram

115

4.1

4.2

4.3

Main enterance Horizonal circlulation Vertical circlulation

Fig. 96: APB interior hallway

Fig. 97: APB enterance

116

Fig. 99: APB main corridor

117

4.1

4.2

4.3

4.4

4.5

Fig. 98: APB under-pathway

Program

The plan has been derived in response to the brief and to the strong natural context. The brief calls for a building of dual function - firstly a place in which research into Australian indigenous seeds will be conducted and a repository of seeds is housed and secondly a facility revealing research through public interpretation and exhibition activities. On the ground floor, cold storage rooms are used for preserving rare and endangered plant

specimens,

trolled

banks

and

stock

temperature-con-

indigenous

seeds.

A drying room, processing area and incubators for young seeds are also located the ground floor, along with an underground thermal labyrinth that reduces the risk

harmful

temperature

fluctuations.

Zones

Space

Unit

Area m²

Public

8 Admin 11 Seminar rooms 12 Event spaces

1 1 2

75 50 56

Semi-Public

1 9 2

5 4 1

412 84 52.3

Private

3 Drying rooms 4 Processing area 5 Storage 6 Cold storage 7 Temp. controlled banks 10 Offices

Labs Meeting rooms Multifunction rooms

118

1 1 2 1 1 3

32 48 71 39.5 34 36

4.5 4.4 4.3 4.2 119

4.1

Fig. 100: APB space number diagram

Chapter 5:

Programming & Spatial Analysis

120

5.1 Space Program

This chapter provides a summary for the programs of the case studies and aims to formalize the project program throught a table that compares and contrasts the different programs of the studied projects as well as the integration of what is needed in-terms of functions for the thesis project, which will be suggested

121

5.1

through a spatial matrix and bubble diagram.

Case Study 1 Zone

Type

Space

Public

Public space

Gift shop lobby exhibit commons

1 1 1 1

71 341 205 245

Education

Grow lab Resource center Class rooms education offices

1 1 4 6

95 129 150 354

Terraces

Central terrace east terrace west terrace

1 1 1

191 97 93

Library

Library offices Rare book room Burk children’s library reading room library stacks

8 1 1 1 1

127 70 74 78 380

Semi-Public

Administration

Facilities offices Administration offices mailroom

4 11 1

32 116 8

Private

Collections management

Specimen processing Spe. mounting & sorting Collection Offices Staff team roof Database work area

1 1 4 1 2

120 134 133 145 96

Research

Research offices

585

Building Services

467

Herbarium

2195

Brit printing press

BRIT printing press Print room

1 2

61 8 16

Fig. 101: Case studies space program

122

Unit

Area m²

Space Enterance Foyer Cafe Multifunction room Laboratory Library Exhibition space Glass house

Case Study 3 Unit 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Area m²

Space

Unit

Area m²

187 73.7 125 197 52.5 74 88 831

Admin Seminar rooms Event spaces

1 1 2

75 50 56

Labs Meeting rooms Multifunction rooms

5 4 1

412 84 52.3

Glass house Shadehouse

4 2

831 456

Office Staff facilities Potting corridor Vehicle store Workshop

4 3 1 1 1

160 175 230 236.5 77.4

Drying rooms Processing area Storage Cold storage Temp. controlled banks Offices

123

1 1 2 1 1 3

32 48 71 39.5 34 36

5.1

Case Study 2

Enterance Lobby Admin Herbarium Storage Loading Grow Lab Glass house Facilities Cold Storage Temp. controlled Exhibition space Research Offices Labs Classrooms Drying rooms Database Planting space Multifunction rooms Cafe Terrace Enterance Lobby Admin Herbarium Storage Loading Grow Lab Glass house Facilities Cold Storage Temp. controlled Exhibition space Research Offices Labs Classrooms Drying rooms Database Planting space Multifunction rooms Cafe Terrace Fig. 102: Spatial Matrix

Should Possible Would be nice 124

Grow Lab

Research Research Labs

Glass house

Library Herbarium Database

storage

preserve

Cold storage vault

Drying room

Exhibition space

Cafe

Explore

Classrooms

125

5.1

Fig. 103: Bubble diagram

Public

Research

Research labs Grow lab Glass house Library Planting space

Preserve

Database Herbarium Cold storage vault Temp. controlled Storage Drying room

Explore

Exhibition space Cafe Classrooms Terraces

Services

Administration offices Lobby\Enterance Toilets Staff rooms Additional services Fig. 104: Spatial organization program table

126

Semi-public

Private

Secondary

Tertiary

Area m²

Unit

Tot. area m²

240

500

350

150

300

1000

500

200

175

700

400

800

125

150

240

120

240

100

275

500

2,500

Tot. area w/circulation m²

127

8,417 x 1.2 = 10,100.4

5.1

Primary

Chapter 6:

Site Context & Analysis

128

6.1 Site Selection For my site selection, my focus was on green spaces around the country and specificly, natural green areas with the least human intervention. With the UAE’s extreme climate, it is hard to find green spaces without any human interference, as the trees, even the local ones requiere minimal amount of care. Adding to that, i wanted my site to reflect the purpose of my concept which circulates around the preservation of UAE’s plants and seeds. Therefore, the areas i looked further into mainly comprise of local trees and with the least artificial greenery and landscaping. To decide which site would suit my project the most, I created a judgment criteria to help me and the site chosen will adhere to these points:

Landmarks

Area accessibility

Historical context

Number of trees

129

6.1

6.2

Activities on site

To begin my initial site selection, i chose two opposite cities in the UAE, Dubai and Al Ain. Dubai is known for it for its superficial

skyscrapers

and

exotic

greenery

while Al Ain is known for its calm environment, its palm groves and natural springs.

130

131

6.1

6.2

Fig. 105: UAE map

To get deeper into the analysis, i then selected areas in the two cities which are known for their natural greenery, which is my main goal in the site selection. In Dubai, i picked Mushrif park. And in Al Ain, i picked Al Ain Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis Mushrif park is one of the oldest major parks in Dubai that is known for its use of local trees. While both Oasis in Al Ain are known for their continuous planting of local trees

Mushrif Park

132

Al Ain Oasis

133

6.1

6.2

Al Jimi Oasis

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park is one of the oldest major public parks in Dubai, as it was established in 1974 over 125 hectares. In 1992, vast areas totaling 575 hectares were annexed to the park. These areas are currently being used as a natural forest, where diverse types of local trees are planted, totaling to more than 70,000 trees, in addition to the trees naturally present in the region. Mushrif Park has gone through several developmental stages, the last of which was in 1989, where it was inaugurated during the festivities of the eighteenth National Day celebrating the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. The park is located in Deira, Mushrif area, about 15km from downtown Dubai, on the Airport Road road leading to Al Khawaneej, facing Al Mizhar 2 Residential Area.

134

135

6.1

6.2

Fig. 106: Mushrif park top view

Al Ain Oasis

Covering 1,200 hectares, this lush oasis provides a unique insight into the region's inhabitants who began taming the desert 4,000 years ago. Located in the centre of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi's garden city and heritage heartland situated about a one-and-a-half-hour's drive away from the capital, this is the largest of Al Ain's oases. Farmers tend to thousands of date palms of 100 different varieties, as well as fodder crops and fruit trees, such as mango, orange, banana, fig and jujube (known locally as sidr). Individual plots and working farms are separated from each other by historic boundary walls.

136

137

6.1

6.2

Fig. 107: Al Ain Oasis

Jimi Oasis

Al Jimi Oasis is not only an agricultural area with a thick cover of palm trees, but also contains mosques and fortified houses that speak to the agricultural and administrative importance of the oasis from the 18th century onward. There are more than a dozen historic earthen buildings in the oasis, including forts and watchtowers that were built in part to protect the falaj irrigation system, which uses underground water canals to bring water from the nearby mountains to the oasis palm plantations, fields and gardens. The oasis sits in a sunken basin that is divided into a series of palm gardens. In addition to the palm trees, fruit trees grow under the palm canopy. In the past, fields around the outer edge of the oasis were used for winter cereal crops, and beyond that was a zone for animals to forage.

138

139

6.1

6.2

Fig. 108: Al Jimi Oasis

Main road Secondary road

140

Main road Secondary road

Vehicle access Pedestrian access

141

Pedestrian & vehicle access

6.1

6.2

Pedestrian & vehicle access

Last exit Khawaneej Uptown Mirdif Arabian center Mirdif 35 mall MBR Space center UAE football association Dubai crocodile park Water reservoirs Dubai safari park

Al Ain Palace museum Al Ain national museum Khalifa bin Zayen stadium Mediclinic Al Ain hospital Al Jahili fort

142

Bin Helal fort Al Qattara arts center Al Qattara souq Al Ain sports club

+70,000 trees

+147,000 trees

143

6.1

6.2

+20,000 trees

6.2 Context Analysis

Criteria

Landmarks

Area accessibility

0.5

Historical context

0.5

Number of trees

0.5

Activities on site

0.5

4.5

Total score

A: Mushrif park B: Al Ain Oasis C: Al Jimi Oasis

144

Based on the total score, it shows that Mushrif park is the most suitable site to chose. Because of its location which is situated close to residential and mixeduse areas, which gives the opportunity for my project to be exposed to many categories as possible. Adding to that, with the different activities available in the park such as horse riding, cyclying, swimming pool.. etc. That is an advantage as it guarantees the involvemnt

145

6.1

6.2

of people with different interesets and age groups.

Mass

Void

Topography

146

50-52m 41-48m 30-35m 20-28m 16-18m

Mixed-use Residential

Sun path 147

6.1

6.2

G+5 G+4 G+1

148

6.1

149

6.2

150

151

152

6.1

153

6.2

154

6.1

155

6.2

156

6.1

157

6.2

158

6.1

159

6.2

160

6.1

161

6.2

162

Section III:

Concept proposal

Chapter 7: Thesis summary Chapter 8: Concept proposal

163

Chapter 7:

Thesis summary & synthesis

164

7.1 Summary

After conducting this deep research on seeds, I now have a better understanding on their philosophy and complexity. Seeds can not be simply “stored” for later use or for future generations. One must understand how a seed adapts to its environment, surroundings and everything around it. By realizing its importance, I think it is vital to provide spaces dedi-

165

7.1

cated for research on seeds and their storage.

Chapter 8:

Concept proposal

166

167

8.1

8.2

8.3

8.4

8.1 Mood board

8.2 Concept 1: Berm The idea behind this concept is to take advantage of the Park’s topography to create secluded spaces the are visible from within the park only and to place the most important space in the project, the seed storage/vault underground. This symbolizes the life of a seed as it starts growing underground and branches up.

Preserve Maintain

Protect Hide

Look after

Topography 50-52m 41-48m 30-35m 20-28m 16-18m 168

8.1

169

8.2

8.3

8.4

8.3 Concept 2: Reveal This concept’s idea is to follow the topography’s natural anatomy and to go against it. Following it is done by placing functions within it, and against is by exposing the spaces, the serves the project as it gives it a chance to be exposed to the outside and not just the park visitors. Going inside and outside the topography provides a harmonious transition between the outside (city) and the inside (park).

Explore Learn

Search Analyze

Reveal

Topography 50-52m 41-48m 30-35m 20-28m 16-18m 170

8.1

171

8.2

8.3

8.4

8.4 Concept 3: Connect The last concept is a combination of both concepts. It works on engaging the city with the park with respect to the park’s natural topography. However, the most important function in the project, the Seed storage works against the topography in this case, it opposes the seeds life cycle which starts from down to bottom. By exposing the seed storage in this way, it would grab more attention and show a clear visual hierarchy between functions.

Project

Topography

Topography 50-52m 41-48m 30-35m 20-28m 16-18m

172

8.1

173

8.2

8.3

8.4

174

175

References

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List of Figures Fig. 1: IOWAAGLITERACY. Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation, 2018, iowaagliteracy.wordpress.com/2018/05/04/science-101-germination/. Fig. 2: Jones, Adam. “Rice Farmer Near Hampi Village - India.” Flickr, Yahoo!, 31 July 2009, www.flickr.com/photos/adam_jones/3774509658/. Fig. 3: Azernews, www.azernews.az/business/119254.html. Fig. 4: News Ghana, newsghana.com.gh/seed-soil-and-agriculture-initiative-underway-in-lawra/. Fig. 5: Openpr, www.openpr.com/news/1824679/global-seed-testing-services-market-expected-to-witness. Fig. 10: Wikimedia Commons, 2018, commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Orthodox_tropical_ seeds.jpg#filehistory. Fig. 11: Wikimedia Commons, 2018, commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Recalcitrant_tropical_seed.jpg. Fig. 15: 121Clicks, 2018, 121clicks.com/photo-stories/manual-drying-process-rice-grain-photo-series-avishek-das/attachment/manual_traditional_drying_process_of_rice_grains_west_ bengal_avishek_das_06. Fig. 16: Rice Knowledge Bank, www.knowledgebank.irri.org/step-by-step-production/postharvest/drying/mechanical-drying-systems. Fig. 19: Firecracker Org, 2017, www.fire-cracker.org/2017/05/dornith-doherty/vault-interior-svalbard-global-seed-vault/. Fig. 20: Plugin Magazine, 2016, plugin-magazine.com/living/preserving-life-svalbard-seedvault/. 178

Fig. 22: Crop Trust, www.croptrust.org/our-work/svalbard-global-seed-vault/. Fig. 23: Medical Research Council, 2017, NYU Langone, nyulangone.org/locations/fertility-center/in-vitro-fertilization-egg-freezing-embryo-banking/egg-freezing-embryo-banking. . Fig. 24: NYU Langone, nyulangone.org/locations/fertility-center/in-vitro-fertilization-egg-freezing-embryo-banking/egg-freezing-embryo-banking. Fig. 25: My Bayut, www.bayut.com/mybayut/uae-oasis/. Fig. 28: Culture Trip, theculturetrip.com/middle-east/united-arab-emirates/articles/an-introduction-to-camping-in-the-uae/. Fig. 29: Salt Work Consultants, www.saltworkconsultants.com/sabkha-matti-middle-east/. Fig. 33: H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, sheikhdrsultan.ae/ Portal/en/media-center/activity/7/2/2018/%D8%B3%D9%84%D8%B7%D8%A7 %D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B3%D9%85%D9%8A%D9%8A%D9%81%D8%AA%D8%AA%D8%AD-%D8%A8%D9%86%D9%83-%D8%A8%D8%B0%D9%88%D8%B1-%D9%88%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%B4%D8%A8%D8 %A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%82%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B0%D9%8A%D8%AF.aspx. Fig. 34: Icba, 2017, www.biosaline.org/news/2017-02-17-6082. Fig. 35: Al serkal, Mariam. Gulf News, 2013, gulfnews.com/uae/environment/flower-plantingdrive-keeps-dubai-in-bloom-1.1172222. Fig. 36: 123rf, www.123rf.com/photo_70180260_palm-trees-at-the-al-mamzar-beach-indubai-united-arab-emirates.html. Fig. 39: Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyperus_alterniflorus 179

Fig. 40: alamy, 2015, https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-botany-cressa-cressa-cretica-in-sand-convolvulaceae-asteridae-solanales-10870400.html Fig. 41, 42, 45-49, 51-53, 56-62: https://www.archdaily.com/217435/botanical-research-institute-of-texas-h3-hardy-c%25e2%2580%258bollaboration-architecture?ad_source=search&ad_medium=search_ result_all Fig. 63-66, 68-73, 75, 76, 78, 79: Devitt, Simon Devitt, and Jeremy Toth. Archdaily, 2017, www.archdaily.com/875161/christchurch-botanic-gardens-pattersons?ad_source=search&ad_medium=search_result_all. Fig. 80, 81, 85-87, 89-94, 96-99: Gollings, John. Archdaily, 2014, www.archdaily.com/520467/australian-plant-bank-bvn-donovan-hill. Fig. 6-9, 12-14, 17, 18, 21, 26, 27, 30-32, 37, 38, 43, 44, 50, 54, 55, 67, 74, 77, 82, 83, 84, 88, 95, 100, 101-105:

Najee, Danyia. Self made diagrams and illustrations Fig. 106: Ecc group, https://www.eccgroup.ae/en/projects/details/Mushrif-Park Fig. 107: desert rose tourism, https://www.desertrosetourism.com/uploads/tours/al-ain-oasis. jpg Fig. 108: Abu Dhabi culture, https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/experience/cultural-landscapes-and-oases/al-jimi-oasis

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