A DIGITAL IMMERSIVE ART GALLERY
DESIGN REALIZATION REPORT
COURSE CODE
BARC 0013
CHI KIT MATTHEW CHOY
UNIT 20 2022-2023
SUBMISSION DATE: 26TH, APRIL 2023
DR PRACTICE TUTOR
DAVE EDWARDS
DR MODULE LEADERS
PEDRO GIL & STEFAN LENGEN
DESIGN TUTORS
MARJAN COLLETI & JAVIER RUIZ
CONSULTANTS
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER - TOM CLEWLOW (ARUP)
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER - JEOVANA NAIDOO (ATELIER TEN)
FIRE CONSULTANT - DR MICHAEL WOODROW (UCL)
Population (On islands): 261,905 (>50,000) Area: 414.6 km2
Main Revenue: Tourism
Named as the “City of Water”, the 2000 year old city main revenue comes from tourism, where its unique urban context and rich history and crafts being the main attraction. One of those tourist attraction is the Venice Biennale1, a yearly event that
ACCESS
The city faces mulitple cultural, climate and tourism concerns. Of those concerns, flooding is the issue that is most sensitive, which other than global climate, locals attribute the increasingly intense flooding to heavy pollution due to tourism. The Biennale faces its own problems as well, as they are being seen as getting less competitive due to the limitation in space and resources. Below are some of the conditions of current Venice that will hopefully portray a setting that will explain the building projects agenda and neccessity.
UNESECO HERITAGE SITE9
Venice and its lagoon has been part of UNESCO hertiage since 1987. However, recent tourism policies and pollution has led to the committee to consider its status.
POLLUTION3
With the heavy reliance of tourism, the city has been significantly impacted by humans with it high consumption and pollutions.
Damages due to flooding has been increasing yearly, as some of the building are not designed to be constantly soaked in seawater.
FLOODING FREQUENCY
Flooding is expected to increase exponentially throughout the years. Therefore the city is constantly battling in how the infrastructure could adapt to the evitable shift in climate.
DROUGHT 8
Interestingly, Venice is facing occasional drought due to climate change, leading un-usable canals which affects local commuters.
WASTE PRODUCTION
The event is a high waste producing event, which in 2015 has generated 90 tons of garbage and was used to put into display in 20161. These waste are generate by the curation of these temporary exhibitions, where depending on the theme of each year’s event, partition walls, installations, bespoke equipment accessories will be torn down and disposed in order to accommodate for future events.
ARESENALE TIMELINE 7
12-13 TH CENTURY
First Historical mention of the Arsenale. Records shown it was first built as a naval shipyard and warehouse for gunpowder.
The biennale has also been accused of being out of step with the global situation2. During the pandemic, the biennale once being one of the highlights of Venice tourism, faces significant loss while consuming enormous resources of the region. This has raised protest concerning the longevity of the event and questions how the event could be more in line with current art ,digital and design trends. 1. https://www.dezeen.
architecture-biennale-2016recycled-waste-exhibitionentrances-alejandro-aravena/
2. https://www.architecturalreview.com/essays/outrage/ outrage-the-venice-biennalemakes-a-mess
3. https://www.bbc.co.uk/ news/business-51364082
4. https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/ Ecology/Environmental_Science_%28Ha_ and_Schleiger%29/06%3A_Environmental_ Impacts/6.03%3A_Climate_Change/6.3.02%3A_ Data_Dive-_Flooding_in_Venice_Italy
5. https://www.theguardian.com/ world/2022/aug/10/venetians-veniceitaly-fear-city-becoming-a-museumas-population-falls-to-50000
The Venice Biennale for the first time ever achieve Carbon Neutrality in this year event. This achievement in contrast to the current conditions of Venice, sets an example of even being one of the most resource intensive events in the city, could strive for a more sustainable future. The biennale aims to further reduce it pollution by setting guidelines for visitors to follow that will lower the carbon footprint of their visits.
15-16 TH CENTURY 17-18 TH
Multiple gunpowder explosion accidents caused the Arsenale to be rebuilt The Arsenale becomes the western naval powerhouse. Walls were built around the perimeter to protect the military compound
The
6. https://www.bbc.com/future/ article/20220927-italys-plan-to-save-venicefrom-sinking#:~:text=According%20to%20 a%202021%20report,32cm%20(13in)%20 by%202100.
7. https:// imagesofvenice. com/the-arsenalof-venice/
8. https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/venicecanal-drought-italy-climate-scli-intl/index. html#:~:text=The%20problems%20in%20 Venice%20are,the%20north%20of%20the%20 country.
9. https://whc.unesco.org/en/news/2043
1. https://www.venezialines.com/ blog/venices-canals-built-city-builtwater/
2. https://veneziaautentica.com/bridges-in-veniceitaly/#:~:text=There%20are%20exactly%20 391%20bridges,the%20city%20was%20built%20 on.
3. https://bestveniceguides.it/ en/2020/02/28/sewage-in-venice-howdoes-it-work/
The canals in Venice typically has depths of around 2-4 meters1. Similar to how the building foundations were made, these canals were built on wood stilts and stones imported from Croatia.
There are over 400 bridges connecting the streets of venice2. Typically built along these canals, the ground underneath consists of a mixture of clay and organic materials.
As Venice is built on soft ground, most of these buildings only rise up to 2-3 stories tall. As foundation they rely on wooden stilts and masonry as building materials.
Flooding in Venice mostly comes from the ground as ground water, seeping through the soft mud through the foundation. Below are some of the ways Venice and other cities in the world deal with flooding problems.
The MOSE is a city wide flood gate meant to protect Venice for the foreseeable future.4 However there have been concerns on its longevity as the gates was not designed to withstand current project sea level rise.
Even though Venice does not have a cistern, countries such as Japan uses this method to alleviate heavy rainfall. Depending on the density of the city, these underground water tanks could be kilometers in length, essentially a underground city beneath a city.
Sewage systems has been implemented for hundred of years in Venice, where rainwater and waste water are drained into the canals through carved out brick pipes shown on the left. The city now requires all waste water to be filtered before dumping to the canals.3
4. https://www.globalconstructionreview. com/decades-making-venices-controversialnew-sea-defen/
5. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/ dec/22/glass-barriers-keep-st-marksbasilica-dry-venice-floods
Barries are also a common scene in Venice as a flooding defense strategy. St. Mark square uses this glass barrier system to protect its delicate buildings from further corroding.5
Elevated walkways using wood panels and steel support are the most common way on traveling during flooding. They are easy to erect and dissemble.
PHYGITAL (N)
Defined as using or related with both physical and digital methodology, often a translation between two.
In response to the unit’s brief, my term 1 exploration focuses on the taxonomy of phygital body modification, where through the deficiencies of 3D scanning, a distinct mapping on the body could be generated.
Based on the mappings I simulated growth based on the roughness of the scanned surface as a syntax for how phygital growth could be implemented.
SEE HOW THE SIMULATED GROWTH REFLECTS THE MAPPING OF THE PHYGITAL BODY (3:59 - 6:31 MINS)
https://youtu.be/b4Mk4G_94EE
3D PRINTED ACCESSORY
The exploration suggested the possibility of translating this syntax to the physical. One of its application is a wearable where its form and aesthetics responds to the user’s both physical and digital measurements, providing a unique expression that could not be replicated.
Extending the exploration of growth away from the body, I investigated the properties of a growth syntax that responds to the geometric surface of an object. By measuring the local curvature of a surface, the growth intensity is exaggerated where the curve value is the highest. On the left demonstraes the measurement of suface curvature and the resulting growth.
Naturally, the question to ask after the exploration was“Under the narrative that the architecture as the body, what does the growth signify?”. On reflection, my initial exploration towards growth is limited to only aesthetic purpose, therefore my building project attempts to further expand the use of my growth formula with a functioning purpose.
Generative art has been gaining traction in recent years, from the hypnotic immersive art to the now popular AI generated art such as MID Journey. However there has yet to be a space dedicated for such bespoke program, which these spaces are often located within warehouses and underground spaces. This page will demonstrate why current spaces for immersive galleries are lacking, which gave rise to the building project idea.
EXPANDING
IMMERSIVE ART (N)4
Experiential art that harness technologies such as VR, holography, and digital projection. Most of these artworks partially or wholly using an digital autonomous system.
Immersive artists have been asking for a dedicated space that would house their artworks for a long time, as they also notice the deficiencies mentioned in this page. they hope that the design of that space could utilize a similar generative algorithim in the design that could be expressed functionally and architecturally. Artist like Refik Anadol are currently working with engineers, biochemist and architects for his future projects that could become more multi dimensional. This idea coincides with my own agenda of using my growth algorithim and expand to the architectural realm.
“I found that we were stuck in just this virtual world. I found that we are in the screens 2D flat world of imagination. I was really looking forward how we can take this machine consciousness out of the screen and bring it to the 3D world.”
Refik Anadol, Excerpt from an interiview with Wired 1
EXHIBITS GENRES
VISUAL & AUDIO1 EXPERIENCES
Immersive art currently uses projections or large monitors within a space to create this surreal effect. Spaces are normally dim and would require a well ventilated space as these projection equipments often produces a lot of heat. These space are simple to allow visitors to focus on the artworks themselves.
DIGITALLY DISPLAY ARTWORK3
Apart from spatial art, the gallery should also be able to provide digital static artworks display on a screen for viewing. These displays could be placed throughout the corridors of the building.
4
The programme of a immersive gallery naturally brings the question of energy consumption, as most of the equipment consumes significant amount of power and produce heat waste. In order to design a cooling system for the building, the energy consumption and heat output must be understood.
AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD ENERGY CONSUMPTION6
For a 2-3 bedroom house with a occupancy of 2-3 people the average energy consumption is 2900kWh per year.
The Mori Digital Art Museum uses a warehouse as their exhibition space. Over 10000 Sqm and 50 exhibits, the gallery uses 520 computers and 470 projectors to achieve this experience1
Using the assumed calculations on the right, the gallery would consume 641850kWh per year, or a consumption of 220 average households.
Assuming a 10hr on screen time and 50 percent brightness:
Taking the average wattage of a 60 inch LED screen (84W): 60’ LED Screen = 146kWh per year
Assuming a 10hr on screen time and 50 percent brightness:
Small projectors for a projection size of 30 inches to 120 inches (50W):
Small Projection Size = 91kWh per year
Large Projectors for a projection size of 120 inches to 360
Large Projection Size = 219kWh per year
SERVER ROOMS & COMPUTERS
Assuming a 24hr operation time under a 60 percent load:
Taking a Dell Poweredge 550 Server Rack (800w):
1 Server rack = 4200kWh per year
Assuming a 10 hr operation time under a 60 percent load:
Taking a average computer load (500w): 1 computer = 1095kWh per year
Assuming a 10hr operation time with a average 50 percent load:
Taking a mid size home theatre speaker (75W): Mid Size Speaker = 273kWh per year
Although electronics mentioned above generates large amount of heat, the parts itself it not design to sustain high temperatures and expects to be constantly cooled. If not cooled properly, parts might be damaged costing thousands of dollars. Therefore the cooling system for the building must be built with redundancy to ensure even if the primary cooling system fails, a backup solution for cooling could be provided.
3. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Energyconsumption-of-museums-large-open-gallery-spacesby-end-use-Source-US_fig14_320474507 HOW DO DATA
4. https://journal.uptimeinstitute.com/a-look-at-datacenter-cooling-technologies/
5. https://www.quora.com/How-muchof-a-computers-energy-goes-toheat#:~:text=Computers%20can’t%20make%20 energy,your%20room%20all%20the%20 time%E2%80%A6
Traditionally, data center uses a open air cooling method. Hot air from server racks mixes with ambient air which the heat exchanger converts it into chill air and recirculates through a raised floor as a cycle. The problem with this method is the efficiency is only mediocre as the heated waste air would still lose to the surroundings, raising the temperature of the interior. For a immersive gallery with high volume of human traffic, this method of cooling may not be ideal.
TRADITIONAL COOLING 4 HOT AISLE COOLING 4
A hot aisle cooling method improves the traditional method by isolating the expelled air with the interior. This increases the cooling efficiency of the server rooms and does not require a raise floor for cooling. However the downside to this method is that it limited the flexibility of the server racks configuration. In the scenario of a immersive gallery where equipments are permanent, this cooling system seems to be the most appropriate.
6. https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/ energy-advice-households/average-gas-andelectricity-use-explained
For this building project, the growth formula explored in term 1 will be used on the immersive galleries external envelope, as a method to control heat dissipation and minimizing the heat transfer back into the interior. Below are some of the understanding of this concept as well as illustrating the relationship of heat output with the climate and operation of the proposed building.
SKIN COOLING IN NATUREALLIGATORS 1
This strategy of using surface area for effective cooling could be found on alligators. The protruding ridges along the backbone called scutes acts as heat regulators for the reptile to control their internal body heat. The blood of the alligators assist the cooling process by distributing heat through its vessels.
USING SIMULATED GROWTH TO ABSORB MORE SOLAR RADIATED HEAT
TYPICAL SERVER RUNS AN AVERAGE 75% LOAD
HOW MANY SOLAR PANELS DOES THE BUILDING NEED?2
For simple hypothesis testing, I have applied my growth formula from my term 1 onto a surface. Depending on the parameters of the formula, the growth has achieved a 40% increased in surface area. This would mean by determine where the growth is applied on a surface, the building would have the ability to control where and how much of the rate of heat transfer occurs. An
in roof top solutions.
Using the calculated building energy consumption of 541554kWh, the required area of solar panels would be 541554/ (132.5/2) = 8144 m2, or 1.14 times the size of a football pitch.
2. https://www.dimensions.com/element/ football-soccer-pitch-field
ARTIST STUDIO & SERVER ROOM DEMAND
PERMANENT ARTISTS HAVE A CONSTANT COMPUTATIONAL DEMAND
ELECTRONICS RUNS PERIODICALLY TO ENSURE NORMAL OPERATION
ANNUAL ENERGY CONSUMPTION RATE
The annual energy consumption would most likely to peak during the biennale period, as galleries would be opened to the public. Artist studio and server rooms would have a relatively constant energy consumption rate as they operate daily.
VENICE TEMPERATURE PEAKS AROUND JUL-AUG
IMMSERIVE GALLERY DEMAND
ANNUAL ENERGY CONVERSION RATE FROM WASTE HEAT
Using the external skin as a cooling mechanism would mean that the rate of heat transfer depends on the temperature difference between the exterior and interior. As temperature of the exterior increase, so as the interior waste heat output, therefore the growth surface is justified as a responds to demand of heat dissipation and outside temperature.
The massing strategy attempts to bring a level of spatial complexity into a relatively regular urban grid. The ground floor of the site it generally untouched, allowing visitors to now being able to pass through a once fenced off site. Spatially and functionally, the immersion galleries are situated within pods allowing them to truly have a isolated immersive experience, away from outside interference.
EXPLODED AXONOMETRIC SECTIONS
The immersive galleries asks for a environment completely different with the other programmes within the building. Therefore the proposal is to isolate these spaces in the form of a pod that are dispersed throughout the floors of the building.
The corridors spread out in 3 floors are irregular in nature, this allows a unpredictable spatial quality throughout the building, with multiple atrium and light wells filling the space within. The tilting walls also allows a large roof footprint, which meant that more solar panels could be installed.
The strategies for the design logic led to a spatially complex interior as well as a distinct exterior. Externally, the pods stands out with its alienating surface and form. The interior continues the science fiction impression with its twisting unpredictable corridors, making every single space within the building unqiue and memorable. The exploded axonometric attempts to illustrate its complexity by indicating the section out of the immersion pods as red, while the circulations are indicated as blue.
The superstructure consists of a series of steel columns and beams, with 4 structural cores acting as “super columns”. The immersion pods is structural independent with the building structure, utilizing both a steel semi monocoque chassis & topologically optimized floor plate. This allows the immersion pod to be fabricated off site in order to minimize the interference with the surround Biennale galleries.
In
The immersion pods is what makes this immersive gallery possible, as all immersive galleries are located in one of these pods. Below are some of the important requirements that these pods need to achieve, which the report will explore in detail as to how this is resolved through design.
As
IMMERSION POD 8
Most of the construction demonstration of the immersion pod will be referencing this particular pod
The cooling/ heating pipes acts as the veins of the building, regulating the internal temperature of the galleries. Cool water is first pumped from the sea and carries upwards through the cores and to the designated spaces. Water gets heated by expelled heat and recirculates back to the basement, where the heat pump redirects the heat to where it is needed.
POD
OPEN LOOP WATER SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEM1
To respond to the diverse climate of Venice, the cooling system could be operated in both ways depending whether the building needs heating. Therefore a pair of system would be needed for the whole loop.
A open loop water source system uses the sea to dissipate heat or extract coolant using seawater. A series of filtration & compression allows the water to pump through the entire outer surface of the immersion pod, where the collected heat could be used for other purposes. AIR HANDLING UNIT
PIPE
SEAWATER INTAKE / OUT TAKE PIPE
SEAWATER INTAKE/ OUT TAKE PIPE
Due to the size of the project, most of the construction and environmental aspects will be shown through the partial section on the right. Section 3 mainly focuses on the building’s ventilation, waste heat management and lighting performance, which all are essential to a immersive gallery experience.
With the immense heat output from the building, a clear strategy must be devised through the cooling pipes and ventilation in order to allow the gallery to efficiently extract heat out of the interior.
Isolating the immersive galleries brings out the question of the lighting conditions of these circulation spaces. The lighting condition must consider the effects on eye strain when lighting conditions changes drastically.
1.https://architizer.com/blog/practice/ details/foster-partners-bloombergsuspended-ceiling/
RECYCLING WASTE HEATBLOOMBERG HEADQUARTERS CASE STUDY 1 2
The Bloomberg headquarters is considered one of the most energy efficient office buildings in the world. The building recycles its own waste heat captured from building services and re-purposes it for internal heating. Furthermore, air is chilled by ceiling panels which are perforated aluminum panels that are chilled. These strategies along with other energy efficient designs within the building helped Bloomberg to save 500 tonnes of carbon each year.
Venice throughout the years could reach up to 35c down to 0c. Therefore, energy strategies in the building will need to respond to two extremes of its climate. Venice having good sun exposure throughout the year, means that solar energy is a suitable source of energy for the building.
The immersion pod external envelope responds the to environment aesthetically as well as functionally. It skin growth formation is derived from a digital simulation that responds to sun intensity and direction, while functionally the increased surface area provides a more efficient surface for the pods to be cooled when needed.
Other than providing diffuse natural sunlight into the interior, the long fins blocking direct sunlight also act as a heat absorption device. Heated air rises and are trapped between the fins where the cool copper pipes exchanges heat with the surrounding air.
Other than providing diffuse natural sunlight into the interior, the long fins blocking direct sunlight also act as a heat absorption device. Heated air rises and are trapped between the fins where the cool copper pipes exchanges heat with the surrounding air.
2. https://www.bloomberg.com/ company/press/bloomberg-mostsustainable-office-building/
The material choice for the building surrounds the idea of the building performance and construction requirements. This pages gives a general overview of how the materials corresponds the programmes requirement and site context.
The choice of materials must work in parallel with the energy efficient strategy of the building, therefore the thermal conductive materials are strategically places amongst areas that needs to absorb heat.
LIGHTWEIGHT & DURABLE COMPONENTS
The immersive pods need to choose materials that are lightweight and corrosion resistant for ease of construction, operation and maintenance.
Due to the building cooling requirements and design, a significant portion of the building consists of aluminum panels. Aluminum when compared to others materials has high amount of embodied carbon. However, with its corrosion resistant and high thermal conductivity properties, it could be justified as it would lower the building operation carbon emission. Furthermore, when using recycled aluminum (which is what the building is using), the embodied carbon is reduced significantly.
2. https://optimasystems.com/hydrocircal-low-carbon-glass-partitions/
The building project will use a special aluminum mix of 75% percent recycled material and 25 % scrap metal aluminum composite. 1.https://architizer.com/blog/practice/ details/foster-partners-bloombergsuspended-ceiling/
This page demonstrates the buildings compliance to fire safety requirements under UK Document B. Diagrammatically the escape routes are indicated on the left through a series of plans.
To ensure visitors and staff could escape in reasonable time, 4 fire egress staircase with 2 hours of fire protection are positioned so that even the furthest corners of the building could reach the nearest cores within 35 meters. All immersion pods exits are also equipped with emergency exit signs.
As the building facade consists or either glass or metal elements, the surface is generally non combustible. In the case of solar panels catching fire due to electronic failure, the occupants should have adequate time to escape as solar panels are located on the roof and is not likely to spread downwards. All immersion pods are compartmentalized with 60 mins for fire protection.
As the building is generally away from most of the nearby building structures, it is unlikely that fire would spread between buildings. For parts of the building that sits on a existing building structure, the external building material is not flammable and its interior is fitted with modern fire suppression systems.
The building uses steel and concrete as its structure. Exposed steel columns and beams would be painted with intumescent paint for fire protection. all fire egress are equipped with fire resistant doors and panic push bars. The immersion pods also in its nature compartmentalized, preventing fire spread internally.
Unlike most cities, Venice relies on fire fighting boats, which it would have easy access of parts of the building that is on water. The fire brigade would also have the option to enter the building through the four cores and the loading bay on the ground level. A firefighting lift with fireproof firefight lobby is provided. Fire hydrants and
This page demonstrates an overview of how the choice of materials, construction methods, and MEP integration led to the aesthetics and operation of the building section on the right. Each fragments shown regarding the building construction is just a general overview and will be studied in more detail in the coming pages.
Barges would travel to the site through a 30 meter wide channel right off the edge of the Arsenale.
the immersion pods, the structure utilizes a semi monocoque structure, referencing car and plane chassis. To minimize production cost, the frame would use typical hollow steel rectangular tubes, which are then welded together on site.
By reusing most of the existing structures on the site, the developed reduces the need of acquiring new building materials, while bringing a sense of material familiarity of the site context into the design. New friction piles structures are installed next existing masonry structural walls.
Using the scanned textures and point clouds from the site reveals that the building overall not well maintained and suffers some degradation. The result suggest that it could not sustain extra load and would require additional support.
AVOIDING DEWATER CONSTRUCTION 3
The industry is leaning towards less intrusive construction methods other than cofferdams, as they often take more time and causes more safety issues. This project proposes using drill shafts to create the foundation for the building. This method drills in a caisson steel framework into the water bed and fills in the frame with concrete. This method is generally used in waters that has little current that would affect the curing process of the concrete.
4. http://home.iitk.ac.in/~mohite/Aircraft_ components.pdf
Considering the site with its sound sensitive nature, the building will be constructed when no visitors are on site. Therefore time management for the project is a important factor for its success. The time frame of these construction are with reference with the construction timeline shown in section 4.
The building targets to be constructed only during non Biennale period, which spans 6 months during December to May. Therefore the construction will occur between 2026 Dec - May and 2027 Dec - May. The sequence will demonstrate how the construction would be progress and how this strategy help created an engagement opportunity with visitors.
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND MACHINERY
Right after the last day of Biennale, workers arrives at the site and sets up the hoarding and water net around the site. Diggers arrive and demolishes the existing armory bunker. TIME CONSTRAINT
BARGES & TUGBOATS 1 TOWER CRANE 2 >70M TOWER CRANE REACH
A combination of barges and tugboats would be used to bring in building materials and construction vehicles onto the site. The tugboat will assists the barge to navigate through the lagoons on Venice.
Considering the tower crane to have a maximum span of 70M and could lift materials up to 100 tons, it should be easily able to hoist all of the immersion pods into place.
SETUP AND DEMOLITION (4 WEEKS) FOUNDATION ERECTED, TEMPORARY GRAVEL ROAD PAVED (20 WEEKS)
Barges move into the site and prepares for the installation of friction piles on water. Workers first creates caisson around the friction pile location and water is pumped out. Steel rebars are then set in place where concrete is filled to the designated height. These piles top are then covered for protection, and are left alone until next year. The existing building internal undergoes simple retrofitting to allow a temporary exhibition space dedicated for explaining the building project development to the visitors. Simple landscape works are also done to allow a new path to be made through the site.
CORE ERECTED, SUPERSTRUCTURE ASSEMBLED (4 WEEKS)
Once the crane is installed, it is used to lift in the pre-cast concrete cores into place. The off site manufactured underwater server room is now in place and anchored to the seabed. Columns that supports the floor plates and erected in prepare of the construction of floor plates structure.
IMMERSION PODS ASSEMBLED, STEEL FLOOR STRUCTURE ERECTED (4 WEEKS)
Immersion pod components arrives to the site and are welded and assembled in the temporary shelter. The two largest pods, the public atrium and seminar rooms are fitted with priority due to its size and complexity. Steel floor beams are installed and workers starting from the lowest floors starts to install the steel deck.
HOARDING REMOVED, NEXT BIENNALE STARTS (6 MONTHS)
Hoardings and water net are removed and stored at a nearby warehouse for reuse. The 61st Arte Biennale starts. Visitors now have the opportunity to be informed of a upcoming development right outside of the visiting center, as this is a also an opportunity to fulfill UNESCO public engagement commitment. Friction piles on the water at this stage looks like pebbles right on top of the water. Prefabricated components starts shipping onto a nearby warehouse ready for assembly.
IMMERSION PODS LIFTED INTO PLACE, FLOORS COVERED (6 WEEKS)
The immersion pods one by one are lifted into place by a crane, starting from the immersion pod on the lowest floors. Once the immersion pod with its structural frame is installed, the workers quickly install the pod’s vapor barrier and water proof layer so that the internal and external fittings of the pods could be executed in parallel.
The internal floors are fitted and solar panels on the roof top is lift into place.
SETUP AND DEMOLITION (2 WEEKS)
After the last day of the Biennale, a perimeter is again quickly erected, this time along with a site office and temporary shelter for the later on immersion pod assembly. A crane base is also installed on the site. Barges started to bring in the pre-cast concrete blocks and assemble the ground floor. The exsiting building on the site gets partially demolished and the ground is excavated for the installation of friction pile.
INTERNAL FITTINGS, TESTING AND LANDSCAPING (4 WEEKS)
The cranes at this point could be removed as the external walls could be installed from the inside of the building. With the temporary shelter removed, this frees up the ground floor for landscaping while the internal MEP and electronics are installed in parallel. Lastly the perimeter hoarding and water net is removed and operational testing are conducted.
1. https://www.dannoceantowing.com/tugboat-bargetransportation/#:~:text=When%20large%20ships%20or%20barges,a%20 thousand%20times%20their%20size.
2. https://www.ace-cranes.com/equipment/towercranes#:~:text=Fixed%20Tower%20Crane%20is%20 used,5%20tons%20to%2025%20tons.
3. https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/World_heritage_ site
Considering the large amount of electronics within the building (projectors, speakers, light strips, AHUs etc.) this page shows how these equipment would be installed as concealed as possible in the building. The building also relies on a UPS system in case of the power outage within the region, in which the UPS will provide a short period of power so that the immersion pods equipment could have enough time to backup any data and purge the remaining heat before shutdown to prevent risk of damage.
STEEL VENTILATION DUCTS
EMBEDDED VENTILATION VENTS SERVICES AND DUCTS BETWEEN CEILING AND FLOOR
WOOFERS
SUB-WOOFERS
A UPS essentially is a battery for a building, where it could serve as a stable source of power during a blackout. However it could only power the building for a short period of time, and for this project case, it will most likely be used for overheating preventions for electronics during blackouts & emergency lighting and fire suppression during a fire.
EGRESS LIGHTS
PROJECTORS
The speaker surrounds system utilities 8 woofers (mid to high frequency) and sub woofers (low frequency), situated from the bottom & the top of the pods, installed on railings.
20 projectors are installed (top & bottom 10 each) which the cone of projection from each projector overlaps, ensuring that even if one of the projectors are blocked or fails the surround projectors could still provide a immersive experience.
The cooling and heating of the general circulations relies on ventilation and water pipes embedded in the floors and ceiling. The concrete flooring acts as a cooling/heating pad with its high thermal mass while pipes on the ceiling absorbs heat from the building.
A series of AHUs are mounted on the top and bottom of the pod, feeding a constant flow of fresh air to the interior, while passing through the water pipes ensures the interior is temperature regulated.
Projecting
To
MONO-TUBE SHOCK ABSORBER1
Referencing car suspensions, proposing using shock absorbers to connect the immersion pod frame to its steel floor plate. The shock absorber absorbs the vibration generated by sub woofers and human activity. Compared to spring absorbers, they are more expensive but is more durable.
DT2: CONNECTING THE IMMERSION POD TO THE BUILDING STRUCTURE
In
Understanding how the panels are manufactured and organized is essential to the efficiency and feasibility of the project. Multiple 3d printing methods are also considered to identify the ideal method for manufacturing the bespoke design of the aluminum skin.
Aesthetically, the surface
As some of the panels could reach to 3.5M in length, concerns of the panels stiffness must be addressed. Integrated into the printing process, the supporting ribs becomes part of the panel, providing the needed rigidity.
The
HOW ARE PRINTED BUILDING MATERIALS DONE?
therefore the waterproof line is behind the external skin right after the insulation.
LIMITATIONS TO METAL 3D PRINTING 4 PANELING STRATEGY
The panelization for the pods attempts to follow the
while minimizing horizontal
along human eye
Cutouts such as doors and intake and outtake vents are accommodated during the manufacturing process.
The main reason why printed metal is yet to be popular other than cost is its durability under stress. This could be explained by the process of manufacturing.
While the laser welds the powdered metal, the printed material sinks as less and less material are beneath it. However believe for this project’s conditions where the temperature difference for the facade under operation are insignificant compared to applications such as car engines where these failures occurs most.
SANDBLASTED ANODIZED ALUMINUM FINISH
Sandblasting the aluminum finish helps erasing the possible imperfections on the 3d printing processing, while making scratches and dents less obvious, overall increasing the durability of the panels.
cladding skin light, the thickness of the panels are uniformly 5mm thick. Vertical and Horizontal ribs are 3D printed with the panels , acting as the backbone of the panels providing stiffness as well as the installation mechanism onto the immersion pod.
As the fabricated components most likely are not in the Veneto region, the materials will be shipped to the nearby logistic port and transferred onto a barge for delivery
MX3D 3D PRINTED STEEL BRIDGE 1
To reduce the construction time, ease of assembly & transportation is important. By referencing real life 3d printing construction examples, components are broken down into smaller pieces, where most of the connection will be welded on site by workers. The diagram imagines how the floor plate would be broken down into 6 pieces.
1. Using SLM printing, the aluminum skin and steel floor plate are manufactured at a off
and
The manufacturing process was completed from an off-site warehouse, which the team utilizes 4 welding robots to print the whole bridge. The whole process took 6 months to produce a bridge weighing 4.5 tons. As these welding robots are not specially made where minor tweaks were done to allow it to follow 3d printing instructions, this process of manufacturing has the potential to be highly scalable in production size.
The bridge was not shipped as one piece onto the site. Rather it was split into multiple piece and welded together on site on open ground. Once welded a mobile crane lifted the whole bridge into place where final anchoring and electrical installation were done. My proposal for the immersion pod prefabrication were inspired by the MX3D bridge in Amsterdam. The bridge design by MX3D and Arup, spans 12.5M by 6.3M and is the first 3D printed steel bridge. 2. Once printed and
a
FLOOR PLATE ASSEMBLY IMMERSION POD 8
5.As soon as the structure is in place, workers quickly install the backers board and waterproof layer to ensure the pod’s internal is watertight. This allows the interior’s work to proceed in parallel with the exterior’s installation works.
The technical drawings below shows the connection details between building elements that typically occurs in the building. Special consideration on how the immersion pod intersects with the galleries corridors, as well as fireproofing design such as cavity barriers with intumescent paint to allow internal compartmentalization. The drawings also shows how the drainage, service ducts, lighting and ventilation components works along with building elements.
Although the page is sized at A3, for better clarity it is recommended to be viewed at A1 size.
Apart from the immersion pods, the building envelope in general follows the waste heat collecting strategy by using thermally conductive materials where heat is generally dissipated. The roof is completely fitted with solar tiles with would help reduce the energy reliance on the power grid. Apart from the main entrance foyer, the elevation of the building is covered with steel panels, which blocks off external noises into the interior.
SKYLIGHT (BEHIND THE IMMERION POD FROM THIS DRAWING)
ROOFTOP SOLAR TILES
G.M.S CLADDING ENVELOPE (SAND BLASTED WHITE)
VENTILATION VENTS CURTAIN WALL
IMMERSION POD SECTION
CEILING INTEGRATION DETAIL
The material selection revolves around the intention of its performative aspect as a immersive gallery, showing considerations of the operation performance and natural properties.
On reflection, aluminum is not the most environmentally friendly option since it takes a lot of energy to extract it. However, the use of aluminum could be justified from its excellent thermal conductivity and being naturally lightweight.
COLOR OVERCAST SKY
Depending on lighting conditions, the external skin gives of a range of color from light to dark muted champagne.
1. https://mperryassociates.com/2022/11/16/ advantages-and-disadvantages-ofaluminium-in-structures/
2. https://maarslivingwalls.com/steelwalls-are-number-one-in-acousticperformance/
The strategy for thermal performance is for the interior to be able to absorb as much heat as possible, and therefore in general the internal enclosure are fitted with high thermal conductivity material.
3.https://www.researchgate.net/figure/ Embodied-carbon-of-some-buildingmaterials-URL-8_fig5_328654824
The pods themselves should be able to minimize the reverberation while also preventing noise within the pod to leak out to the general gallery spaces.
ALUMINUM THERMAL PERFORMANCE ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE LIGHTING PERFORMANCE
ADVANTAGES 1
The immersion pods lighting condition should be completely artificial and controllable for a complete immersive experience, while the general gallery spaces introduces a mix of both natural light and electronic displays.
DISADVANTAGES 3
- EXCELLENT THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY, ONE OF THE BEST PERFORMING METAL
- LARGE RANGE OF AESTHETICS
- RELATIVELY EASY TO RECYCLE
HIGHLY MALLEABLE
- AFFORDABLE BUILDING MATERIAL
ADVANTAGES 2
- EXTREMELY STRONG MATERIAL
- EASY MAINTENANCE
- AS EXTERNAL CLADDING, IT IS EXCELLENT FOR REFLECTING SOUND
- DURABLE MATERIAL
ADVANTAGES 5
- HIGH THERMAL MASS, IDEAL FOR CONTROLLING INTERNAL TEMPERATURE WITH EMBEDDED WATER PIPES
DISADVANTAGES
- NEED EXTRA TREATMENT TO BE FIREPROOF AS STRUCTURE
- HEAVY BUILDING MATERIAL
ADVANTAGES 6
FIRE RESISTANT - SOUND ABSORBING - DURABLE MATERIAL - CHEAP BUILDING MATERIAL - EXTREMELY CORROSION RESISTANT
DISADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
- RELATIVELY HEAVY
4. https://dyconcretepumps.com/concrete-vs-other-constructionmaterials/#:~:text=Concrete%20generally%20wins%20out%20 when,and%20efficiency%20savings%20later%20on.
5. https://www.concretecentre.com/Performance-Sustainability/ Thermal-Mass.aspx#:~:text=Thermal%20mass%20describes%20 the%20ability,in%20response%20to%20internal%20conditions.
6. https://rclglobal.co.uk/ copper-wire-pros-andcons/
7. https://internationalaluminium.org/work_ areas/recycling/
Energy management is the center of the building’s proposal. The design demonstrates this through going in depth on the building’s waste heat management, lighting and ventilation, which are the three most energy demanding source of the building. The building is equipped with numerous sensors that would provide the information on internal temperature, humidity, lux and oxygen levels of the building, where it automatically adjust the services performance so that the internal space comfort is always optimal.
The
2. https://masweb.vims.edu/bridge/datatip. cfm?Bridge_Location=archive0909.
much%20higher,of%201.005%20 J%2Fg%20degreesC.
MAIN ENERGY CONSUMPTION: SERVERS & COMPUTERS MAIN ENERGY CONSUMPTION: PROJECTORS & SPEAKERS MAIN ENERGY CONSUMPTION: COMPUTERS & LIGHTS MAIN ENERGY CONSUMPTION: DISPLAY SCREENS & LIGHTS
ENERGY
SITUATED
In order to design a system that would effectively manage waste heat, each programme’s heat output and primary energy consumption must be understood. By illustrating all the main energy consuming electronics, the programmes are position and designed within the building that corresponds to the intensiveness of its energy requirement.
In order to determine how the aluminum skin should react the external climate, as well as how the interior could take advantage of natural sunlight, direct sunlight hours and radiance analysis are conducted. The result was used to help drive the shape of the immersion pod to maximize/minimize sun exposure.
On reflection, future design iterations could have a more explicit building form response from the sun, as currently it only informs the immersion pods shape, whereas the building corridors itself could also respond to sun exposure so that solar energy harvesting could be maximized as well.
ANNUAL DIRECT SUNLIGHT HOURS
As the surrounding buildings around the site are generally 1-2 stories tall, the building receive large amount of direct sunlight. Although being exposed, due to the massing various extrusions and incisions, has generated a wide range of exposure throughout the building. These simulated data will further inform my louver design on the facade.
Similar to the Direct Sunlight analysis, the radiance analysis indicates that the roof receives the most amount of radiance, where as the floors closer to the ground receives less. Below are two simulations done on two climate extremes on the site. In general , during the winter solstice, the building receives 30% less energy from the sun.
RADIANCE ANALYSIS
DIRECT SUNLIGHT HOURS
The “growth” that occurs on the immersion pods geometrically is a series of bumps and terrains on the surface level of the aluminum envelope. The aesthetics the surface follows nature’s way of developing body abnormality such as tumors, but in this case instead of cancer cells, the growth is determined by the sun path relationship with the building geometry.
MINIMIZE HEAT TRANSFER BACK TO THE INTERIOR BACK UP COOLING SYSTEM
As insulation only slows the transfer of heat, under extreme heat output scenarios, heat might still be able to pass through the insulation. The design therefore passively minimize the heat transfer with its exaggerated skin. Envelope exposed to the outside are in general have more surface are and therefore would have a higher rate of heat transfer.
In the rare case of the water cooling system failing. heat would be purged through the skin while the visitors are asked to slowly exit the immersion pod. This prevents the electronics from over heating, causing damage to the electronics.
GROWTH RESPONDING TO LIGHT SIMULATION IMMERSION POD ACOUSTICS SIMULATION
IMMERSION POD ACOUSTIC REVERBERATION TEST
The numerous design iterations of the internal space has shown that sound reverberates the least when the internal shape is least regular. However, the design also needs to consider that the walls are meant to be projected with images, therefore it could not be too irregular.
WHY DOES NON-FLAT SURFACE HELPS REVERBERATE SOUND?
When sound waves hits the surface of a flat wall, they will get reflected in the same direction. When a walls is non-flat, sound waves would reflect in different directions, diminishing sound.
The above logic allows the surface facing most towards the sun to have the most dense crevices while having the largest terrain. The clamp number decides what the max/min height or size of the element is. The width of the terrian is defined by a browian motion noise.
The
the surface area using the exploration from term 1.
2. https://www.everythingrf.com/ community/what-is-an-anechoicchamber
The waste heat within the building is captured through a series of water cooling pipes above a perforated ceiling, while the water pipes on the floor provides heating/cooling depending on the internal temperature. Together they work as pairs to regulate and recycle heat within the building. During summer where the building does not require heating, the collected heat could be diverted to other Venice Biennales, which the suggestions are listed below.
The cooling strategy relies on both the system of cooling/heating pipes around the building as well as a constant flow of fresh air providing in the building. Considering the huge amount of waste heat needed to be extracted and the amount of occupants within the building, all spaces within the building will rely on mechanical ventilation, where the immersion pod will have a separate system of AHUs since they require extra cooling capacity.
The Government of Veneto & the La Biennale Di Venezia will join hands for the development and construction of the building. This page demonstrates the overall agenda for each stakeholders as well as the tendering and procurement strategy consideration. A yearly timeline also demonstrates how the building will maximize its utility through its operation strategy.
SUSTAINABILITY AND INNOVATION
From
3
5
The traditional method of procurement first hires consultants for the design work and then appoints a contractor to construct. The traditional procurement method of requires all of the technical design to be completed prior starting on site. The contractor has limited responsibility during the whole construction.
PRIMARY FUNDING AND LAND USE
The government of Veneto having growing concerns that the Venice Biennale will lose its competitive edge in the
world, and therefore will indirectly have an impact on the regions tourism, decides to provide the funding and land use. The development of the building will have to comply with UNESCO guidelines to ensure Venice’s UNESCO heritage status would not be affected.
SECONDARY
Facing recent criticisms towards the Biennale being out of touch within the art world, the erection of the building will hopefully help the event regain its status as the forefront of global art trend. As being part of the Venice Biennale, it will fund raise part of the cost from the public and private donors, in turn this investment would allow the organization to have stakes on the building along with the government. The commission of the building asks it to consider the environmental impact and strategy for this gallery so that it is in line with the brand image.
STORE WITHIN THE DATA SERVERS
SUBSCRIPTION BASE FOR DOWNLOADING DATABASE FOR MACHINE LEARNING TRAINING REVENUE STREAM
TOURISM PUSHING THE BOUNDARY OF ARTISTIC DEVELOPMENT DIGITAL ART
Single stage tender is useful when all the details such as cost regarding the project is available before commencement. Normally contractors will be invited for tender, in which they will submit a proposal where the client could then evaluate based on the quality and price of the proposal. The ideal tender will then be selected and proceed to negotiate terms and conditions.
minds together in the 21st century. As there are no other galleries that could provide such integrated experience, the gallery will attract digital artist globally.
IMMERSIVE ART FROM GALLERIES ART CREATED BY PERMANENT ARTIST IN THE BUILDING WIND, SOLAR ETC CAPTURE DATA FROM SENSORS
DIGITAL LIBRARY IN BUILDING REVENUE STREAM
FREE TO VIEW ONLINE & THROUGH DIGITAL LIBRARY In order to reduce the reliance on the Biennale itself, the operation cost will be partly funded by a subscription base from digital artist globally. The server contains some of the most unique digital artworks and climate data that could only be found here. Demand will expect to grow as the server collects more and more immersive artworks.
UNDERWATER DATA SERVER ONLINE ACCESS
Apart from providing the stage for immersive generated art, the building also houses a dedicated digital archive for digital art. believe gradually the building could potentially be the worlds largest collection of
This tender method works by initially appointing a tenderer for the first part of the works through a pre construction service agreement (PCSA) where based on the performance and output, would consider them to carry out the rest of the work in the second stage. This allows an early appointment of as contractor, which is often useful when the project requires some sort of specialization as the contractor with their expertise could provide a early input into the initial project. Benefits of such tendering method includes greater cost certainty and lower risk of construction delay.
DESIGN AND BUILD 5
procurement method relies on the contractor to provides the design and construction work, which naturally the contractor receives most of the risk. This method allows overlapping of design and construction which reduces construction time, however, this is best suited for standard or simple construction, as quality is not the main concern. Cost is determined at the tender stage.
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT 5
The procurement method allows the client to hire multiple trade contractors. These trade contractors are managed by a construction manager, which they are responsible for coordinating, administrating and defining scope for the trades. Contractually, only the client and the trades have a relationship. This procurement method is useful when the client side has specialist knowledge which in this case would be immersive gallery installations. The cost is not fixed during tender stage and the risk is split between the contractor and client.
IT TECHNICIANS MONITORS THE ELECTRONICS AND EQUIPMENT OF THE GALLERIES AND SERVER ROOMS DAILY
CURATORS AFTER EACH BIENNALE EVENT DISASSEMBLES AND CURATES ARTWORKS FOR NEXT YEARS BEINNALE
TOURISTS NORMALLY VISITS BETWEEN APRIL TO NOVEMBER WHERE THE BEINNALE OPENS TO THE PUBLIC
BIENNALE PERIOD
OPERATIONAL TIMELINE TOURISTS ARTISTS TECHNICIAN/ ADMINSTRATION STAFF
CURATORS
A CERTAIN NUMBER OF ARTIST WORKS PERMANENTLY DAILY IN THE BUILDING, WHILE DURING THE BIENNALE, VISITING ARTISTS WILL GIVE LECTURES AND COLLABORATE WITH
2.https://www.theguardian.com/ artanddesign/2023/jan/28/immersive-artexhibitions-popular-david-hockney-van-goghdali-london
3. https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/ Single-stage_tender
4. https://brodies.com/insights/construction-andengineering/two-stage-tenders-a-means-of-managingrisk-for-contractors/#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20 benefits%20of,to%20feed%20into%20the%20programme.
5. https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/ Procurement_route
The proposed time line took reference to the RIBA plan of work, where it was then modified to fit this building projects scenario. Contractors and Specialist are brought earlier into the design process as the building itself is relatively bespoke, which outside input would help reduce uncertainty in time and cost.
However, although this timeline demonstrates how the building could be constructed on site within 12 months split by a Biennale in between, it only shows the best ideal scenario which there are multiple factors that could affect the construction time which is out of the designers control.
STAKEHOLDER ORGANIZATION CHART
On the right shows the structural organization of the involved stakeholders during the construction. The list only shows the primary stakeholders, especially key players that are crucial to the immersion pod fabrication and cooling system of the building.
*This is for the whole project but does not include various other aspects of the project. Cost milestone, planning and regulatory approvals, demolition. These run in parallel to design process. There are also client approvals and sign off and contractual milestones.
all of the
According to UK regulations, Construction design and Management Regulations (CDM) must be followed 3. The following shows the consideration of how these guidelines will be complied, as well as additional requirements that this particular project will require. A site plan of a diagrammatic overall of the construction site is also providing, demonstrating the key exits, water net boundary and site office on the site.
PERSONAL PROTECTION7
Within
DRILL
During the mock up of the immersion pod, workers should also be trained on the potential hazard during assembling this particular project, as some of the methods of assembly might not be the most common. This also has the added effect of accelerating the construction speed through practice.
2. https://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/ public/os/D/Near_water_en_A5_ booklet.pdf
As a responsible building project, waste disposal should be at a minimum and managed. These waste should be collected in containers that are then ready to be shipped out for disposal.
As
3. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ uksi/2015/51/regulation/20/made
CONSTRUCTION WASTE DISPOSAL Safety harness must be used at heights, were adequate guardrails and scaffold should be provided.
AT HEIGHT When possible, edges near water should be indicated to prevent fall in water during darker environment.
Escape routes should be clearly indicated on the site in case of an emergency
4. https://simcatgroup.com.au/ partial-demolition-what-is-it-whenis-it-done/
5. https://www.fireprotectiononline. co.uk/info/the-uk-fire-exit-signsregulations/
Fire extinguishers should always be on site. Since the building is equipped with electronics, workers should be trained to identify which type of extinguishing equipment should be used.
6. https://www.cleancreeks.org/167/ How-Construction-Contributes-toWater-Po
7. https://cpdonline.co.uk/ knowledge-base/health-and-safety/ ppe-in-construction/
8. https://www.hseblog.com/ emergency-drill-and-exercise/
This page dives deeper to some of the detail of the building project in its testing methods, construction training, and operation upkeep of the building. As the building design and construction is unique and bespoke, thorough testing must be conducted to ensure during its construction process, risk of delay will be minimized. These testing such as the medium to large scale mock ups, as well as assembly training could be conducted from a nearby warehouse, which is mostly vacant as it was normally served as storage space for the temporary biennale artworks. Prefabricated components could also be delivered to the warehouse for storage and later shipped on site when is needed, saving precious on site space for construction. The building has a relatively high upkeep demand with constant monitoring, where the key components are listed on the right.
Small scale hand size simulated growth skin texture could first be tested on a regular commercial 3D printer as a quick way to figure out the scale and aesthetics of the texture. The additional cost for these testing would be negligible and could be tested as frequent as needed.
Once the skin texture formula could be determined, the testing could proceed onto a larger scale. Initially, a couple of full size panels would be tested. This exercise intention is to identify the feasibility of its construction technicality for stage 4, as well as production quality.
Towards the end of the technical stage, a full scale mock up of one of the immersion pod would be done. This exercise would be use to evaluate whether the projected timeline is reasonable, as well as further identify potential issues that have not been addressed.
FOLOGRAM FOR ASSEMBLY PROTOTYPES1
Due to the tight construction schedule for this building project, assembly training will be required for all workers to ensure they fully understand their tasks at hand. Full size immersion pod mock ups would provide opportunities for the workers to understand the complexity of the project. CLT panels could be use as an alternative to external skin during practice to reduce cost.
For consultants, contractors and engineers that are tasked to figure out the how the assembly should be done for the workers, Fologram could provide an augmented space for quick testing. By using Hololens, Folograms provides a live link between 3D programs and augmented space, allowing use to quickly determine the construction logic in a physical space. The software also allow collaboration between users despite not being in the same space.
1.https://fologram.com/
2. https://visualmodo.com/how-toclean-solar-panels-on-roofs/
3. https://subind.net/equipment/ mc313/
In order to maintain the solar panels efficiency, solar panels must be cleaned regularly. Workers should also wear harnesses when working at heights.
2.
As the immersion pod skin is most likely to accumulate debris, which will affect the ability of the skin’s in dissipating heat, the skin will need regular cleaning. As the surface of the pods are deemed too dangerous to be stood on, workers will use water hoses and scrapers to clean debris off the skin.
3. UNDERWATER CLEANING3
The underwater server, which relies on its exterior skin to dissipate a portion its heat, would require regular cleaning of its exterior as barnacles and debris would affect the skin’s performance. Scuba divers with cleaning equipment would be hired to conduct the cleaning.
4. TUNING SHOCK ABSORBERS
Shock absorbers used to minimize the vibrations generated by the speakers will need to be tuned periodically, ensuring that the constant vibration does not translate sound outside the pod and protection to the structure.
5. ROOM SOUND CALIBRATION
Immersive art being the focus of the gallery, audio and visual electronics must provide its promised capabilities. Therefore IT technicians would need to use calibration microphones and color readers to ensure the gallery is performing at its peak.
6. COPPER PIPES PLUMBING
In the case where these copper pipes introduces a leak or blockage, workers could quickly remove the raised floor within the immersion pods and replace the faulty pipes. WHEN NECESSARY
VENICE UNESCO HERITAGE SITE1 IMPACT ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES BY UNESCO
Venice and its lagoon are recognized as UNESCO world heritage property. In order for Venice to retain its heritage status, it has to comply with the codes of the landscape and cultural heritage. As the building project asks for quite a substantial change in the Arsenale, the municipality would also have to prove the impact towards the environment will be minimized, and it brings significant value to Venice. This page therefore would demonstrate the above by responding to UNESCO impact assessment guideline, where it entails a series of questions and suggestions that help regulatory bodies to assess environmental development of a heritage site.
GUIDANCE AND TOOLKIT FOR IMPACT ASSESSMENTS 2
As suggested by the Impact Assessment guidelines, it should be conducted by consultants that have relevant expertise in the world heritage convention, the site that will be impacted, and the relevant action, which could be performed collaboratively by the client’s assigned environmental engineer and sustainability consultant. In general as long as the development shows that it will not affect the site’s outstanding Universal Value (OSV), it will be accepted by the UNESCO board. On the right, it shows the recommended procedures that could formally prove that such development would not affect the OSV of Venice.
1. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/394/
CONCEPT
A concept of a policy or environmental change is drafted at this stage
ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (HSIA) CRITERIA
There are 11 steps within the assessment criteria. The questions and responses below are not the entire assessment criteria within the impact assessment. However, have selected 5-7 step to be explained in further detail as this will most likely be the most important questions that needs to be explained. Step 5-7 mostly requires planners to list the direct, indirect and cumulative impacts towards the city, both physical and non physical.
MONITORING & SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
As stated within the impact assessment, all sites within a UNSECO heritage region must be treated as a highly sensitive location and therefore, the measures should reflect that nature. Below will show some of the additional steps that would be taken to ensure that the construction of the building would meet the highest level of requirements which includes tight monitoring and public engagement.
It is recommended that the assessment should be conducted as early as possible in order to have a larger influence towards the planning stage. In general there are two types of assessments for developmental changes
STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (SEA)
This assessment report is used for policies, plans and programmes. These strategies could also entail a series of physical developments, where they will have a independent HSIA.
ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (HSIA)
This assessment report is used for projects, more specifically modifications towards the environment through physical changes. It is noted that in order for some banks to provide funding to projects within a heritage site, a HSIA must be conducted and submitted which will be further discussed on 4.6. For this project purposes, only a HSIA assessment is needed.
CONSTRUCTION & IMPLEMENTATION
Impact Assessments might need to be conducted multiple times during the planning stage before entering the construction or implementation stage of a development PLANNING & ASSESSMENT
What Environmental, social and other related impacts would result from the proposed action? (direct, indirect & cumulative)
Direct Impacts: partial demolition of an existing building, rework of landscape, affect site access.
Indirect Impacts: expected an increase of visitors, significant demand in electricity from the power grid
Cumulative Impacts: If this on water project is passed, might spark series of on water development, which might affect marine life through time
6-7. EVALUATING IMPACTS & MITIGATION & ENHANCEMENT
Continuing from Step 5, what are the significance of the impact? What could be the corresponding strategy?
Direct Impacts: The impact would be significant regionally, but with avoidance and mitigation measures it could be eliminated and minimized. A series of on site sensors would monitor the geological health of the site. Construction plan would follow the strictest guideline as possible. Furthermore the positive impact brought from the building culturally regarding digital art would be significant and outweighs its direct impacts.
Indirect Impacts: The impact would be significant regionally, but with avoidance and mitigation measures it could be eliminated and minimized. Upgrades for the surrounding site access such as reinforced pavements and facilities would allow the Biennale to accommodate a large inflow of visitors. Power Cables could be upgrade beneath the ground with no visual impact on the site.
Cumulative Impacts: The impact would be negligible and raises no concerns. The project would most likely be an exceptional case, due to the purpose of this building is to expand the limited capabilities of the existing Biennale venue for digital art, it is unlike a similar scenario would and could be passed by the Veneto parliament.
To ensure the construction and operation of the project would meet the highest level of confidence, apart from the monitoring of on site conditions, a weekly sampling of water of the lagoons from all three exits on the site as well as ground leveling data will be collected. If any one of the data points show anomaly, construction will be paused until the source of the abnormal data is identified and resolved.
AND SOCIAL RESPONSE
Despite the many positive impact that this building would have brought to the city, not everyone will understand with face value, especially when the building has such a bespoke appearance. Public engagement workshops and seminars that will invite residents, business owners and visitors to understand the significance that the project will bring. Feedbacks regarding the direction of this building will be going forward will also be taken into consideration during the conceptual and developed design stage.
In the case that the building will be decommissioned due to unforeseeable reasons, the nature of the building being easy to assemble on site also means that the building is easy to deconstruct and recycled. 90% of primary building materials could be reused or recycled, extending the lifespan of the material. Foundations of the building may leave a print on the land, but it should be minimal considering the construction methodology.
CARBON REDUCTION STRATEGIES IN RESPONSE TO UNSECO GUIDELINES
USING LOCAL LABOR USING LOCAL SUPPLIES REUSING EXISTING BUILDING COMPONENTS
OPERATION DECOMMISSIONING RECOVERY IF APPLICABLE IF APPLICABLE
2. https://whc.unesco.org/en/guidancetoolkit-impact-assessments/
3. https://cege.mtu.edu/great_lakes/ images2/spotlight_rosette_CDT.html
4. https://evreka.co/blog/scrap-metalrecycling-guide-a-way-to-sustainabledevelopment/
By using local labor, cost could be reduced by minimizing transport cost while indirectly lowering carbon emission as well
By reusing parts of the existing building, less new material are needed, saving time and cost.
Focusing on local supplies help minimize the need for transportation, reducing cost and carbon emissions.
OFF PEAK ELECTRICITY
During off peak hours, the power grid tends to use green energy sources such as hydro power. As such during operation, the UPS should only charge itself during off peak hours.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
As the building is equipped with solar panels, this source of energy will reduce cost in electricity demand and reduce carbon footprint.
CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT COST IS ESTIMATED AS 15% OF MATERIAL COST ^ ELECTRONICS INCLUDES PROJECTOR, SPEAKERS, SERVERS AND COMPUTERS FOR THE BUILDING
1. https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/costguides/steel-building-prices/
5. https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/costguides/toughened-glass-price-list/
5.0 GENERAL ARRANGEMENT DRAWINGS
•https://www.labiennale.org/en
•https://www.dezeen.com/2016/06/02/venicearchitecture-biennale-2016-recycled-waste-exhibitionentrances-alejandro-aravena/
•https://www.architectural-review.com/essays/outrage/ outrage-the-venice-biennale-makes-a-mess
•https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-51364082
•https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Ecology/Environmental_ Science_%28Ha_and_Schleiger%29/06%3A_Environmental_ Impacts/6.03%3A_Climate_Change/6.3.02%3A_Data_Dive-_ Flooding_in_Venice_Italy
•https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/aug/10/venetiansvenice-italy-fear-city-becoming-a-museum-as-population-fallsto-50000
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