Applied technology in Architecture, Housing Prototype for Latin America

ATA SOL_ID / UNIT 04 TEAM HELIOMET

ATA SOL_ID / UNIT 04 TEAM HELIOMET

AUTHORS CARLOTTA CONTE CLARE REID ELLIOT DUNN JULIE HUTCHINSON MEIS ALSAEGH NICK STONE OLEG SEVELKOV OLIVER HESTER PETER DEW RIAM IBRAHEM RICHARD O’HANLON ZAEEM AHMED

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

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INTRODUCTION

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

OUR INTERPRETATION OF THE BRIEF SOL_ID is a prototype developed as part of the Solar Decathlon - Latin America and Colombia 2015. SD LAC2015 organization’s goal was to contribute to the knowledge and dissemination of solar and sustainable industrialized housing. In particular, to develop a new typology of housing that is applicable within the urban context of tropical climates, both locally and globally.

The brief set the design of a single house for a family of five people in the lower strata’s of the Colombian economy. This house also needed to be part of wider research and proposals which addressed the ideas on an urban scale.

Our design of SOL_ID had to take into account SD LAC2015’s main challenge to achieve a proposal in which the direct cost of the dwelling construction was less than USD 50,000. The actual intent of the project changed slightly with the restrictions and the rules of the competition, also the fact that we were competing from the UK was another factor that led to several changes to the construction of the design which you will see later in this document.

The design of SOL_ID went through many iterations over the course of the 2 year competition. Even though the intention was to provide social housing in a tropical climate, it seemed as the design progressed and was constructed, the prototype could be said to be an antithesis to this requirement.

It is important to highlight that this report will chronicle the learning experience of us, as cohort of students, who were brought into the project at the detailed design stage. Our task was to take SOL_ID from what was a relatively unresolved design, to a fully functioning prototype, as part of the SDLAC 2015.

This documentation of the project, will try to give an overview all the whole process but will mainly focus on the design and building of the roof, which is apt. Given that throughout our involvement, the roof remained the most ambitious and problematic element of the whole project.

From what in hindsight (but not totally in hindsight) was an overambitious design, with huge time pressures.

To a finished building which was again blighted by huge time pressures. We will try to illustrate all of the struggles we faced and the inevitable changes that we made during construction. The document will be split up into three stages: 1. The Design in the UK and what we imagined the finished building would be.

2. The project in Colombia and how it changed during construction.

3. How we would resolve the SOL_ID prototype, had we have had more time, resources and understanding of the monumental challenge we were undertaking.

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Design in the UK

Building in Colombia

Resolutions

1.1 Introduction to SOL_ID

2.1 Introduction and SENA

3.1 Introduction

1.2 What was going to be built?

2.2 Gridshell lift off!

3.2 Ventilation

1.3 Initial design development

2.3 Gridshell lift 2

3.3 Waterproofing

1.4 The inherited design

2.4 Plaza de Bolivar exhibition

3.4 Conclusion

1.5 From 1:10 to 1:1

2.5 Roof joints and prototype

3.5 Drawings

1.6 Prototyping plywood joints

2.6 Drawing roof joints

1.7 Performance of the building

2.7 Gridshell layout

1.8 Testing strategies

2.8 The first lift (Cali)

1.9 Humidity

2.9 Fitting solar panels and membrane

1.10 Temperature

2.10 Outer membrane and skylight

1.11 Daylight

2.11 Membrane’s issues

1.12 Rain water collection

2.12 Screens

1.13 A leap of faith

2.13 Lateral arches

1.14 Drawings

2.14 Conclusions of built prototype 2.15 Quantity analysis 2.16 Drawings and photographs

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

Image : description

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.1 INTRODUCTION TO SOL_ID

Initial research into South American housing showed that families change their homes over time. Children often would remain in their family homes after they married and had children of their own. This would result in more people living in a household than the home was initially built for.

Utilities are part of a fixed Service Module

Living Modules can be added or taken away

The cluster design (pictured left) creates a framework for families to expand their units either vertically or laterally over time. The design aims for adaptability of the home, it is a radical departure from the compartmentalized room layout of traditional housing and instead boasts an open plan living arrangement.

An external envelope separates one residence from another along with a minimal bathroom and kitchen pod, which provide the required utilities. Internally, there are not rooms but ‘pods’ that can be moved around which contain private spaces such as bedrooms. In theory, residents can then add units as their families grow and sell them when their families shrinks. They can move all the pods to the edge of the unit, for a large living space during the day and they can move them back in the night for privacy from each other when sleeping.

The unit is therefore not a fixed design for social housing but an idea on how to create a better framework to allow people to define how they use the space within their house.

Extra Area can be brought in time Moveable ‘Living’ Modules

Fixed ‘Service’ Module

As mentioned previously, the ability of the unit to take different forms depending on its users desires is an integral part of SOL_ID’s design. While developing the unit, many different internal options were produced.

Any of the designs could have been realised. However, we could only build one for the competition in Cali.

The family is sleeping in the pods.

The family has pushed the pods to one side in order to invite their SD-LAC neighbours over for a party!

The family decided to have dinner inside one of the pods, for a more intimate atmosphere.

One of the children however, is hiding.

The interior strategy adopted for construction

One of the children has been naughty and trapped the rest of the family in their living pods.

Because of this they had an argument, so decided to take a bit of privacy.

But they eventually made up and made an embracing space to have their evening meal.

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

ROOF TOP

STANDARD UNIT

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.2 WHAT WAS GOING TO BE BUILT? The prototype unit for the competition is an example of one of the roof top units within the larger cluster. It consists of a standard unit under a canopy structure which intended to provide solar shading and a roof to the unit.

A long time was spent refining and experimenting with the concept. The result of this was insufficient consideration of construction methods. This meant a strategy for delivery of the prototype was not fully engaged.

Throughout this process numerous iterations of the prototype came into fruition, with the canopy taking variant forms and materiality. With most members of the team in the UK, and the site in Cali, Colombia; there was a real disconnect from the logistics of building.

Advanced Physical Modelling Including Roof

Geometry Refined in CAD

Internal Layout of D#2

Design Rationalized for D#3

Final Concept Design before Detailed D#4 Design

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.3 INITIAL DESIGN DEVELOPMENT Initial Design - EPS Roof and Canopy The initial design intended to build on knowledge gained from Sunbloc, team HelioMet’s contribution to a previous Solar Decathlon. It looked to make a better use of Eco-Foam contoured hot wire assembly.

The process of this construction allowed a fast assembly with a minimal consumption of energy and wastage. The Eco-foam blocks used would be held together by steel cables in tensioning. The shape of the canopy was designed to allow maximum natural ventilation and with optimum inclination for solar radiation reaching the photovoltaic system. The lightness and speed of assembling/disassembling could have made the method economical.

A huge setback in the development of this design, was the lack of availability of Eco-foam in Colombia.

Another approach needed to be taken, one which could be sourced locally and which was suitable for relatively low skilled construction.

Elevation of initial design - D#1

Alternative Materials More time was spent in material research, but none made it to a stage where they would play a part in the prototype.

1) The principle softwood grown in south America is Radiata pine (pinus Radiata, Insignis). This would be a suitable substitute for the traditionally used European softwoods. It is stable due to kiln drying which also makes it resistant to insects.

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CURRENTLY OUTSIDE SOLAR ENVELOPE, TO BE ADDRESSED ACCORDINGLY FOR D3

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SOLAR ENVELOPE

SLIDING AND FIXED SCREENS

HOLE IN EPS CANOPY TO ALLOW LIGHT THROUGH

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TEAM NAME:

TEAM HELIOMET

UK ADDRESS:

The CASS Spring House 40-44 Holloway Rd London N7 8JL, GB

CONTACT

www.heliomet.org Jonas Lundberg

4000

ENTRANCE RAMP

4300 mm

2) ‘Emsirvac’ is a Colombian based company who team HelioMet connected with whilst in the country.

They manufacture bricks and slurry products made from recycled site rubble and mud. The material is water resistant and can be put under great loads. This is a sustainable product due to its reuse of old debris.

It replaces the standard concrete screeds but can be used in the same way.

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VISITORS EXIT VIA THIS SLIDING DOOR EXIT RAMP (SHOWN IN SECTION)

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Section of the progressed design - D#2

15000

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North Elevation (Above)

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1:50 @ A3

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South Elevation (Below)

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1:50 @ A3

3) Bamboo is indigenous to south America and therefore highly available. Héctor Archila, a Colombian born Ph.D. researcher from the university of bath (uk) has developed a method of creating cross laminated Guadua CLG (Guadua is the species of bamboo), that flattens the bamboo and cross laminates it into a strong structural material. Unlike traditional ply-bamboo product that removes the bamboos curvature, Archila’s [Academic use only] methods hot press the entire quartered section of bamboo flat, retaining all the strongest fibres in the material.

J.Lundberg@Londonmet.ac.uk

FACING PANEL TO SCREEN TRACKS ADJUSTABLE JOISTS CRADLES

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CLIENT

CURRENTLY OUTSIDE SOLAR ENVELOPE, TO BE ADDRESSED ACCORDINGLY FOR D3

15000 mm

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SOLAR ENVELOPE

VISTORS ENTER VIA THIS SLIDING DOOR

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ENTRANCE RAMP/PATIO (SHOWN IN SECTION)

Scale 1:100

AR-111 -02

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SOLAR DECATHLON LATIN AMERICA & CARIBBEAN http://www.solardecathlon2015.com.co

HOLE IN EPS CANOPY TO ALLOW LIGHT THROUGH

EAST

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CONSULTANTS Urban Future Organization [UFO] architects SUPERFUSIONLAB architects

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Issued for D2

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21/05/2015

Issued for Portfolio

MARK

DATE

LOT NUMBER CONTENT BY:

DESCRIPTION 8 RR

DRAWN BY: CHECKED BY:

RR

COPYRIGHT:

NONE: PROJECT IS PUBLIC DOMAIN

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SHEET TITLE SLIDING AND FIXED SCREENS

Prototype Site Elevations - North and South

FACING PANEL TO SCREEN TRACKS ADJUSTABLE JOISTS CRADLES

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A new approach Following the initial designs and consultation with the requirements for SDLAC 2015, it was clear that the ambitious design was unfeasible and needed to be reduced in size. It was necessary that SOL_ID wasn’t larger than set dimensions, particularly 4 meters in height. This, along with time wasted thus far meant that a final concept design needed to be settled on.

Elevation of the progressed design - D#2

15000 mm

WEST WEST

This design (pictured bottom right) was settled on during the summer of 2015, only a few months before the building needed to be built. This is where we joined the team and our involvement in the project begins.

The beginning of a revised design - D#3

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[Academic use only]

DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.4 THE INHERITED DESIGN On our introduction to the project, the concept was similar to previous iterations. However it had been decided that the most appropriate method for construction of the solar canopy would be to use plwood - a material which was available in Colombia and very cheap. The initial intention for this canopy was for it to be manufactured for easy assembly, using CNC. The design of this canopy seemed of paramount importance at this stage. Its realisation would dictate the success of the whole project. To begin, a study of the canopy model was built at 1:10. It was a large waffle structure, of a similar form to the previous Ecofoam design, but the underside of the structure was a spherical subtraction, making for an interesting dome which went on to inform all further designs of the canopy. This design was analysed critically and we began to question it’s structural logic, build-ability, material efficiency and cost. A large amount of time and energy was invested in pursuing a buildable structural solution.

We worked closely with Price & Myers Engineers to achieve a structural solution to the current design.

The diagram (pictured right) shows the red load bearing structure which would take the weight of the whole of the roof. The blue secondary structure would rest on top and assist in providing a rigid framework on which to build out the rest of the waffle structure. In effect, the canopy would have to use a complicated column and beam structure. However the large legs which extended outwards from this structure, also seemed to have a load bearing capability. Without a doubt this current design was over-engineered and materially inefficient. The structure needed to be rationalised.

Digital model of the diagonal structure

1:10 Model of the proposed canopy

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.5 FROM 1:10 TO 1:1 A rationalised concept was settled upon - it took the column and beam from the previous canopy and simplified them. Columns and beams would form the load bearing structure, this in turn would support a plywood waffle structure which would span the internal space - retaining most of the qualities of the internal space. The external legs were retained, as they were considered important to the solar shading of the interior, these became largely independent of the main structure.

The use of plywood as the main structural material was still the unquestionable intention. The load bearing columns and beams, it was proposed, would consist 5 layers of 18mm plywood. The internal waffle structure would be a single layer of 18mm plywood. The grade of plywood and the finishes to be applied to it, were yet to be specified, it was something that was beyond consideration in the given time. The water-tightness and drainage of this roof was also unable to be properly work out.

Proposed assembly, at the time, seemed remarkably simple. The columns and beams would be assembled and erected. The waffle structure would be constructed on the ground inside the load bearing structure. Once completed it was assumed that this could be lifted using four corner ropes. Once in position the waffle structure would be bolted to the main frame and the ropes can be released.

Structural detail showing the connection between the beam and waffle structure

Our theoretical assembly of the building relied hugely on a feasible jointing technique for the plywood sheets. It is perhaps apt to suggest that when it was energetically designed at 1:10 there was little or no consideration of the problems that might arise when trying to produce this at the scale of 1:1.

Proposed construction sequence

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.6 PROTOTYPING PLYWOOD JOINTS The MA-DAM students working as part of team HelioMet went through a lot of research and previous designs to develop multiple joints which would allow us to connect sheets of plywood whilst retaining rigidity. All of the joints needed to be simple and allow high tolerance since the level of building skill, quality of material and tools available were still relatively undefined, even though we were aiming to use CNC. All these experiments are documented and were very useful to understand the limitations of our construction strategy, especially the 1:1 scale experiments with the exact plywood sheets.

Simple Slotting Joint - 1:1 prototype Pictured right, is an example of a simple slotting joint. A secondary slot in the timber which gives the joint extra stability. The primary slot is also narrower on one side in order to fit the secondary slot, meaning that the joint only works one way round however if you repeated the secondary slot on both sides you could make it a universal fit again. Having a simple assembly method was paramount to the success of our design. One of the most important purposes of this 1:1 sample, especially with this type of joint, is to test tolerances.

In order for this to work over hundreds of joints the tolerance must be sufficient. If the joints are too tight it will never fit each slot when it is repeated across the area of the canopy. Tension caused by the natural warping of the timber cannot be avoided and so must be accounted for in the tolerance. However if they are too loose it will loose strength and stability.

Adapted Mortise and Tenon Joint - 1:1 prototype Pictured right is a 1:1 sample of the type of joint which could be implemented for the roof in fill of the SOL_ID canopy in Colombia. The part was CNC milled in 18mm ply-wood as this was the current choice of material.

The file was prepared as a 3D cutting file. It was cut with an 8mm, 2 flute, end mill bit, recommended for the team in Colombia to use. There is a 0.2mm offset on all slots which seemed to give enough tolerance but still tight enough to create strong connection. In theory it would be very easy to take apart and put back together again as it relies on a mechanical fixing rather than just a tight fit.

Expanding Joint - 1:10 prototype This joint was designed as a solution to the unknown potential of tolerance issues across so many slotted joints in such a humid climate. The expanding joint uses threaded steel nuts and washers to create a spacer between the panels. This allows you to contract the panels to fit into the joint and then expand them to create a tight fit giving extra strength and stability.

This joint at 1:10 was laser cut in MDF. Because the purpose wasn’t to test for tolerance but for how well it worked mechanically it was sufficient to test it in a different scale and material. The test proved that the concept worked very well however having so many fixings to tighten and loosen could increase labour across the whole canopy against a limited time scale.

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.7 PERFORMANCE OF THE BUILDING The first real considerations of environmental strategies took place in October. We had a meeting with the electrical and environmental engineers BOOM collective. This was also the first time skilled consultants on the subject would help out the team. The goal was to understand the design intentions so far in creating a comfortable space and energy efficient building. Then we aimed to further refine it and bring it all the way to construction.

The project was based on the concept of actively acclimatizing small portions of the house: the living pods. The rest of the house would have to rely on passive strategies to reach a decent level of comfort This would be difficult given the tropical context of Cali , Colombia. We therefore worked on restricting the areas of optimal comfort using an efficient HVAC system to provide cool air to the living pods while the rest of the building should be cooled by natural ventilation.

If from one side the concept seemed very strong and clear we soon realized how many gaps we would have had to fill. Unfortunately, not always with the greatest outcome.

[Academic use only]

Axo showing the HVAC system’s elements in relation to the service pod.

[Academic use only]

[Academic use only]

[Academic use only]

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[Academic use only]

Plan showing the HVAC system and its relation with the living pods.

DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.8 STUDYING, SKETCHING AND TESTING STRATEGIES: FROM PERFORMANCE TO COMFORT LEVELS When we first begun considering strategies to design a comfortable space we questioned the nature of comfort. How do you reach a state of comfort? Can it be measured by numbers? Can it be described by graphs and diagrams? How does the performance of the building affects the perception of a comfortable?

We realized that reaching optimal comfort is partially subjective. Considering that Cali’s climate is incredibly humid and hot, is very difficult to create a completely cool and dry space. For this reason our main concern was to understand what parameters we should prioritise, as different people feel comfort in different ways.

The team finally focused on reaching an optimal relative humidity as well as a great amount of natural lighting within the building while reducing internal solar gain.

In order to do so we tried to balance the shading of the building to reduce direct solar gain whilst retaining an adequate amount of natural daylight internally.

However we were still incredibly concerned that even with optimal shading the high humidity would have affected the overall feeling of comfort. Furthermore we worked towards improving the natural ventilation. The roof played a key role. We looked at using the depth of the waffle structure to create a large thermal mass that would regulate the interior spaces. Finally a great communal effort was made in order to study enough puncturing in the roof to increase the buoyancy effect through ventilated skylight.

Meeting with BOOM collective on the 5th of October, looking at the Psychometric chart to define comfort condition in Cali.

COMFORT CONTEST PARAMETERS

GOALS

PASSIVE STRATEGIES

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TEMPERATURE

REDUCE OVERHEATING

Good insulation + light colours Solar shading: - Roof shading by earthen pot Radiative cooling: - Diode roof - Roof pond Evaporative cooling: - Roof surface evaporative cooling

v v x x x x x x

VENTILATION

Induced ventilation: - Ventilated skylight - Solar chimney - Wind tower

v v x x

AIR MOISTURE ABSORPTION

Desiccant system Use of hygroscopic substance: - Rocks or charcoal briquette - Salt, Rice - Silica gel - Clay absorbers - Moisture absorbing plants

x v v v v x v

VENTILATION

Vents in pod in strategic locations Central space constantly ventilated with very big openings

v

HUMIDITY

NATURAL LIGHTING

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MULTIPLE AXIS LIGHT ENTRY

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LIGHT COLOUR INTERIOR PAINT

v

Table analyzing passive environmental strategies

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.9 HUMIDITY: STOP SWEATING! In tropical climates like Colombia humidity highly affects the perception of comfort. In Cali the air is most humid around April, exceeding 94% (very humid) and is driest around August, at which time the relative humidity drops below 52% (mildly humid).

A great way to limit the relative humidity is to strategically move air within the building. An other way is to implement desiccant systems to help remove moisture from the air, either chemically, mechanically or both.

As we previously mentioned, the predetermined design included active strategies to improve the comfort conditions of the living pods while the remaining spaces had to be acclimatized naturally. We therefore had to find other ways to reduce its relative humidity.

Some efforts were made in considering low tech desiccant systems to absorb the moisture out of the incoming air, bringing dry air inside the building. These however remained theoretical small scale tests which never made it to Colombia. On the other hand most of our attention was drawn towards the ventilation, by channeling our understanding of the existing winds.

In order to influence the airflow through the building’s openings we considered the wind speed and pressure, the opening’s characteristics and their effective area.

Our main strategies were based on Buoyancy or stack ventilation and cross ventilation. The first was applied through the use of five ventilated skylights which would suck the hot air out of the building. The second was applied through the use of controlled openings as shown in the schematic plan. Keeping two sides of the building completely closed and two sides, opposite to one another, wide open. According to our studies the negative pressure (hot air) at the edge of the building should suck the positive pressure (cold air) outside of the building, increasing the flow of air across the open plan.

Schematic design of home made desiccant system, further modelled and physically tested with silica gel, calcium chloride and rice.

Schematic plan showing the cross ventilation

Ventilated skylight detail, shows hot air passing through the waffle structure out of the skylight

Schematic sketch showing the predicted air flow

Schematic sketch showing the predicted movement of hot and cold air according to the pressure gap.

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.10 TEMPERATURE: HEATING UP MORE AND MORE...

Over the course of a year, the temperature in Cali typically varies from 19°C to 30°C. The warm season lasts from July to September with an average daily high temperature above 30°C. The cold season lasts from October to December with an average daily high temperature below 28°C. In summary the weather can get pretty toasty.

Since the first design proposals, shading was conceived as the primary strategy for natural cooling. Furthermore we thought the high percentage of precipitation would also cool down the building. The solar canopy’s shape was studied to shade the interior spaces from direct solar radiation.

In order to better understand the potentials of the canopy we produced thermal modeling that would show both insolation and solar irradiation. These showed that the canopy was successfully achieving our goal, at least in the pictures it produced. The belief in these predictions meant that just before leaving for Colombia we thought the solar canopy would have covered most of our issues relating to over heating but we were still concerned with its effect on the quality and quantity of daylight.

Thermal modeling showing the solar irrandence of SOL_ID, the electromagnetic energy on a surface area of the building, measured in watts per square meter (W/m2)

These discussions took place but never really made it further than diagrammatic strategies, given that the roof design had not yet been finalized. Nonetheless the team was still concerned with the canopy’s effect on natural daylighting. Little did we know this was going to be the least of our worries.

Thermal modeling showing the solar irrandence of SOL_ID, the electromagnetic energy on a surface area of the building, measured in watts per square meter (W/m2)

Thermal modeling showing the insolation of SOL_ID, the energy of the sun captured from the different part of the building, measured in watt-hour per square meter (Wh/m2)

Thermal modeling showing the insolation of SOL_ID, the energy of the sun captured from the different part of the building, measured in (Wh/m2)

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.11 DAYLIGHT: ENJOYING COLOMBIAN SUN In Cali the length of the day does not vary substantially over the course of the year, staying within 20 minutes of 12 hours throughout. The shortest day is December, the longest day is June. The sky is clear for more than eight months of the year, while partially cloudy between March and June. Generally the light is strong and consistent throughout the year. However, as mentioned in the previous chapter, we were concerned with the lack of daylight that would penetrate through to the interior spaces. This can be quickly understood when looking at the sketched section (pictured right) which represents our understanding of the internal day-lighting based on the presumed shade produced by the canopy. They illustrate the precise shade and levels of lux calculated three times in the day on the 21st of December, September and June.

Schematic sketch showing the predicted sunpath throughout the year and the relative angle of the rays

At this stage were incredibly concerned about the income of natural lighting but we didn’t know we were totally misunderstanding the realistic activity of the canopy. The diagrams below have been recently made to show how the canopy shaded the interior of the building in reality; in all cases the lux largely exceed our expectation.

December 21st, 9:00

December 21st, 12:00

December 21st, 15:00

September 21st, 9:00

September 21st, 12:00

September 21st, 15:00

June 21st, 9:00

June 21st, 12:00

June 21st, 15:00 Daylight studies SOL_ID

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.12 THE MOST PRECIOUS: RAIN WATER COLLECTION The moment we begun working on the project we understood that our building would have been exposed to rain for a good portion of the year, particularly during our construction phase. In fact between October and December there is a 53% average chance of daily rain.

We thought that rain was going to be an integral part of our buildings environmental and construction strategy.

Partially for reaching a level of comfort and partially to collect water for daily usage.

If this was an incredibly fascinating potential on a theoretical level but we soon realized that all Grey water re-usage needed a level of organization and in depth study that went beyond our available time. We spent a good amount of time trying to understand complex rain water collection systems that would channel the water back to the toilet. On the other hand a properly functioning drainage system was never agreed and set in stone.

Before leaving for Bogotรก, a large amount of concern relating the subject were raised. However the lack of time, consistent information regarding budget and clear communication brought about a general feeling of discomfort and confusion.

Axonometric diagram showing the appliances and plumbing system parts.

Concept rainwater distribution diagram at urban scale

Section sketch integrating the drainage between the side beam and the canopy, as a slot pre-cut in the plywood waffle structure.

Axonometric sketch integrating the drainage between the side beam and the canopy, as a slot pre-cut in the plywood waffle structure.

Schematic sketch showing the predicted rain water collection and drainage system

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

CALI

SOL_ID

38% to 96%

60%-70%

60000 min 100000 max

4% of external lighting

18째 min 32째 max

23.89째 min 25.89째 max

2000 L

1800 L

Tackled aspects of local climate: humidity, daylight, temperature and water usage.

While the first column shows the minimum and maximum conditions experienced in Cali throughout the year, the second column shows the predicted conditions we expected SOL_ID would have reached.

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DESIGN IN THE UK

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1.13 A LEAP OF FAITH: DOUBTS AND CONFLICTS How would we build it?

The realities of inheriting a design

As illustrated in this section, the design of the structure was never fully resolved. The nature of this design meant aspects such as waterproofing and drainage were not considered sufficiently. Another consequence, was the difficulty to make any decisions of how things would actually be built. The ambitious and aspirational design could not be effectively considered and this was down to a whole host of factors;

If our first encounter with the project felt like getting into a running train, going to Colombia was like a jumping across a gorge, making a leap of faith.

We didn’t know where we would get the materials, we didn’t know what tools and machinery would be available for us to fabricate the building, we were unsure, as a team, of our overall skill sets and, perhaps most importantly, we didn’t have enough time.

What would it be like once it was built?

Efforts were made in order to understand the local climate and how to apply smart and useful strategies to achieve good comfort conditions. Environmental tools were used for simulation of comfort conditions. But our understanding of the parameters we were working within, perhaps made these results simply gestural.

Our consultants were struggling to guide us in the right direction. Firstly because of the uncertainty of budget and finished design (until the very end we didn’t know if we could actually afford a HVAC system). This, in addition to the lack of specific understanding, across the team, of the tropical climate and the study and application of adequate strategies, kept the overall discussion on a theoretical level.

Taking over somebody else’s project was indeed the first hurdle and proved to be the source of many difficulties. In the weeks that lead to the beginning of construction in Colombia, we were trying to get a grasp of somebody else’s project, but at the same time trying to resolve the issues that arose as it progressed.

The fact was a design had already been decided upon and there was little we could actually change at this point of the design. In addition, the lack of time and the stress associated with this, did not catalyse the best communication within the team and certainly did not help understanding where our efforts could contribute positively to the overall project.

What were we thinking?

Throughout four weeks of intense study, drawing and redrawing we had many ideas of how we thought the project might be constructed and how we thought it would have performed, but nothing was concrete.

Nothing was completely understood. There were still vast amounts of unresolved details, unknown information and, most importantly, we had doubts.

Doubts of whether design was really appropriate, whether it actually could be built and if we, ourselves, could build it.

Rendered interior showing the final design we had worked on for construction in Colombia

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Transversal Section Scale 1:25

1. Exterior Decking

2. Polycarbonate screens

3. Skylight arrayed along the roof

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Longitudinal Section Scale 1:25

1. Exterior Decking

2. Polycarbonate screens

3. Skylight arrayed along the roof

Wor msEy eVi ew 1: 50

Expl odedAxonomet r i c 1: 200

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02

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Design in the UK

Building in Colombia

Resolutions

1.1 Introduction to SOL_ID

2.1 Introduction and SENA

3.1 Introduction

1.2 What was going to be built?

2.2 Gridshell lift off!

3.2 Ventilation

1.3 Initial design development

2.3 Gridshell lift 2

3.3 Waterproofing

1.4 The inherited design

2.4 Plaza de Bolivar exhibition

3.4 Conclusion

1.5 From 1:10 to 1:1

2.5 Roof joints and prototype

3.5 Drawings

1.6 Prototyping plywood joints

2.6 Drawing roof joints

1.7 Performance of the building

2.7 Gridshell layout

1.8 Testing strategies

2.8 The first lift (Cali)

1.9 Humidity

2.9 Fitting solar panels and membrane

1.10 Temperature

2.10 Outer membrane and skylight

1.11 Daylight

2.11 Membrane’s issues

1.12 Rain water collection

2.12 Screens

1.13 A leap of faith

2.13 Lateral arches

1.14 Drawings

2.14 Conclusions of built prototype 2.15 Quantity analysis 2.16 Drawings and photographs

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d i o v Render from D#4

After arriving in Colombia, the focus shifted from an un- buildable design package, in which we had been working on relentlessly, to a harsh reality of an undetermined prototype with little resolution. This section comprises of our design and construction development throughout our time in Colombia.

The design we left with from the UK was totally unfeasible, due to many different factors such as time, cost, lack of material awareness, skill level, language, and a poor organisational structure. This led to the project taking a very different course once we arrived in Colombia. The initial designs were designed on the ‘fly’ and were sketched and built in very quick succession. This led to a number of issues, which will be explored further in this section.

We were soon aware of the lack of resources underfunding, and language barriers being in Spanish speaking Colombia. We managed to secure a site to assemble the prototype in SENA, the range of tools and expertise here was excellent, it included a CNC milling machine big enough to cut the lattice structure for the proposed roof but as we found out the hard way, sometimes that is not enough. These were the start of many problems to come!

The technician could not get the mill to CNC the wood. This was when an idea was brought forward to continue modelling a dome using rhino, to determine the geometry of the gridshell, and then to make joints between each component out of steel. This decision was made a few days before we left for Colombia but was still being designed and tested during our first week.

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2 .1 INTRODUCTION AND SENA The construction began at SENA, this started by making the floor cassettes and then building each component. The columns were firstly tested at a small scale, to see the layout and what trimming out would need to be done to the floor cassettes.

We then laid them onto Formuletta pads in 3 out of 4 areas. We also tested a timber footer to the column, however this was too time consuming and we proceeded with formuletta. The columns were long sections of timber screwed together, in a tongue and groove arrangement so that they could be fixed securely together.

The beam was constructed initially as a frame, in which we then secured the 18mm plywood to. This was done at different stages as lifting the beams without a forklift was very difficult. They were enclosed voids, with no airflow through them. We passed the beam onto two scaffold towers to then lift it onto the columns.

The beams were very heavy, a team of approx 8 was needed to lift and locate them onto the tops of the columns, they needed to be fed onto the top of the column from one side first and then taken back to the other side. This stage was made a lot easier with the use of a forklift. However we needed to be able to be very skilful in positioning the beam onto the column when using the forklift, as we could of easily pushed over the columns.

Column construction

Making a small section of the column to test the size and where we needed to trim out

Screw details

Column meeting floor and cassette detail

Beam with some of the plywood attached, showing construction make up

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Initial gridshell layout

First test of roof canopy at SENA

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Detail of joint

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Marking out steel members

Pillar drilling the steel members

Chop saw with angle grinding blade.

Marking out steel members

Keeping the bolts with the bolts

We began constructing all the components for the roof.

This was done by cutting all the 90x42mm pieces to specific lengths and laying them out on the floor. We then cut a groove into the ends of the timbers to fit the steel fixing joint.

The mild steel was cut with a chop saw, and four holes were drilled in it, the steel was then inserted on a horizontal plane in the groove that was cut into the timber.

We then fed the bolts through the timber and secured them on either side using ratchets. This was a long process, we only managed to fabricate approximately a quarter of the gridshell and had to go to Plaza de Bolivar with a partly assembled gridshell. The main delay was fabricating all the specific components of the roof.

In Colombia standard building materials were readily available from hardware stores, however more specific construction sundries were not available, such as the bolts which Elian had to source from all over Bogotรก.

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2.2 GRIDSHELL LIFT OFF!

Preparing for the first lift

Hand lifting the gridshell onto the props

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The gridshell was constructed by hand on the floor of the prototype. This was done hours before we were opening for the public, all components were ready to be assembled, but laying them out was a time consuming process. Once we had laid all of them out we then could streamline the process of fixing them together.

Each person had a task, and we worked efficiently.

The gridshell was constructed and we then at approx 3am tried to lift it onto the props we had constructed by hand. This was optimistic as the height of the T bars we had made for the roof to sit onto were 3m up on the beams.

The dome was designed to be extended to the outer walls, these would then act as buttresses for the dome structure, they would sit onto the T bar sections we created, we had many issues lifting it though.

Attempting to lift the gridshell it became apparent that the joint connections we were using were not adequate enough to withstand the forces we were putting through them.

The joints were simply flexing and then the gridshell would snap into either a concave or convex shape that did not have the desired dome like shape we wanted to achieve. This highlighted how important build-ability is as well as good design and detailing.

We pin pointed specific areas where this was happening most and fixed an L shape joint to the top of the external timber where the joint was under the most stress, this was to help keep the form and the general layout of the dome more rigid.

Beneath gridshell

The gridshell was supported with a tensioning cable across the perimeter of the structure.

This was intended to keep the gridshell form, however it did not keep the form as the tension was not able to hold the desired layout.

We simply did not have the material resources or tools to improvise at this stage in the centre of Plaza de Bolivar, which is the Colombian equivalent to Trafalgar square. So we had to settle with no gridshell structure for the opening of the exhibition.

Layout of gridshell

Attaching the slings for the first lift

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2.3 GRIDSHELL LIFT 2

Layout of gridshell inside prototype

Existing joint

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Revised joint for more rigidity

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Revised joint for more rigidity

Although the dome was made stronger, it still wasn’t strong enough when lifted into the air. The above image shows the bending of the individual steel pieces and to the left shows the bent steels which happened whilst it was being lifted. This was our first real test of the dome, and from this test, we were able to see that joint had to be made a lot stronger, especially if it was going to support our weight for fitting the roof.

After many conversations with some nearby construction workers who were installing a large Christmas tree we managed to try and lift the gridshell. This did not work out in the way we intended. Fixing the slings to the inner square we thought would be the most secure area.

Lifting the gridshell just highlighted the problems that were tested earlier by hand lifting. The gridshell sagged and became very conical, this was not what we were hoping, and the likelihood of having a gridshell over our heads for the opening exhibition was looking very unlikely!

Revised joint for more rigidity

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2.4 PLAZA DE BOLIVAR EXHIBITION

Laying the gridshell on the floor

The outcome of the previous nights antics was that we laid the gridshell on the floor next to the prototype. This showed progress but many more iterations and designs were needed to resolve the roof connections.

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Bolivar exhibition opening

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2.5 TESTING ROOF JOINTS AND FABRICATING PROTOTYPES

Rendered detail model of sketch design

Sketch design on site

Sketch idea of revised roof joint

There were design ideas for how to strengthen the joint, these ideas mainly looked at re using the current timbers that had been cut. We were not able to use them as the joints that we had previously come up with were not strong enough to hold the gridshell. So various iterations were thought of.

A new joint was needed and had been sketched the night before, we had to source all the tools to be able to begin making a prototype joint. We had some steel which was a lot better quality and a thicker profile. We borrowed a chop saw from a team nearby and used this to cut the steel to the desired length.

We then wandered round to a lot of the other teams and asked for a welding gun and electrodes. This was quite a difficult thing to do as all the teams were quite involved with what they were doing and we spoke ‘no Espanol’ and so asked for ‘soldar’. This was the equivalent of wandered round a building site saying ‘No Spanish, welder?’. We managed to communicate our ideas with the steel sections we had just cut and found a three phase arc welder.

We then tested this joint by standing on it! This was not a fair representation of the joint but it held up well.

Welding the steel joint

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The welded steel joint

The welded joint from above

Testing the roof joint with a hug

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Roof joint testing

We tested the joint we made and it held up very well. This was done by putting a point load onto the joint, it held well, however the timber began to snap as we stood on it, this was not a major problem as the experiment was not set up in the correct way. The timbers had nothing to press against laterally, this made them splay out and split at the weak point, but the joint held strong which was a positive result and we left after a long nights work happy.

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2.6 DRAWING ROOF JOINTS AND TYPES OF JOINT

Joint 1 model

Joint 2 model

Joint 1 fabricated

Joint 2 fabricated

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Joint 3 model

Sketch to show metal worker

The 3D model was updated and the amounts of joints were calculated, there were only 3 joints over the entire structure. We then sent these off to a metal worker in Cali where they were fabricated and returned within 24 hours. This did not hold up the progress at all and we were able to continue in making the timber pieces.

The main part to get right for these joints was not only the shape but the angle of the arms that came out of them. This would help us to create the dome like gridshell structure we needed for stability.

Joint 3 fabricated

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2.7 GRIDSHELL LAYOUT The gridshell was planned out on a 3D model, we used the layout of one quarter of it and then replicated this around the gridshell layout.

We started by cutting each lettered piece to its correct length. The pieces then had slots cut into them, a jig was created so that each slot would be the same length.

However this was difficult as we were cutting with a circular saw. So the end of the slot was sawn from both sides. This created an awkward ending to each timber so each one was finished with the reciprocating saw. This took time, they were also widened slightly to make fitting the steel connectors easier. After this process we started laying all the pieces out on the floor ready to be assembled.

This took some time to lay them out on the floor as the letter system although was repeated there was some difficulty knowing what went where. Once these were in position we could then start fixing them together.

Revised layout of roof structure

Widening and deepening gap with reciprocating saw, to make room for the steel connectors

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Sawing slots with the circular saw with a jig

Widening and deepening gap with reciprocating saw, to make room for the steel connectors

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Issues of communication between the digital model and the built reality

Communication problems between the model and connection

Fixing the connections into the grooved slots

The new roof components all in one place

Fixing the joint pieces to the timbers we realised we needed to know certain angles from the model otherwise the dome structure would not be able to be achieved.

This felt like a small angle and was negligible, however once amplified across the entire gridshell it would amount to a large discrepancy. The joints were also spray painted with a grey paint so that they had a nicer colour finish to them.

We managed to get these angles quickly and so progressed continued. Fitting the steel into the slot was at times quite difficult but simply widening the gap with the reciprocating saw solved this issue very quickly.

We came across an issue when fixing some of the timbers to some of the more crowded joints. This was that the timbers sometimes collided with one another.

This was solved simply by hand sawing part of the corner off. This was a simple fix and had to be done approx 10 times around the gridshell, but was a problem that was un foreseen from the model, as these joints proximity was amplified across the gridshell which made them bunch up in a way we did not predict.

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The gridshell joint connecting some of the timbers

Finished gridshell joints

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Scaffolding to prop the gridshell structure

Assembling the gridshell structure with props to support areas which had a larger amount of load

The gridshell was constructed around the scaffolding to keep the dome shaped layout. This was very useful as we could see exactly the consequences for our actions. However at certain points it needed propping up as there was too much downward force and this meant the structure was not being assembled correctly.

We made simple T stands for the gridshell to fit onto.

The gridshell was assembled, overnight. The crane which was organised through the competition arrived early at approximately 10pm and we had not finished assembling the gridshell. The crane driver waited until 11am the next morning to do the first lift. This took quite some time to assemble, and we did not anticipate it taking this long. However the crane was ready for when we needed it.

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[Academic use only]

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Ceiling plan

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2.8 THE FIRST LIFT (CALI)

Slings on and ready to hoist!

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Mid lift

The crane at this point in the construction process was essential. The gridshell placement was completed over a series of lifts, it took 7 efforts to place the gridshell into position. The gridshell was manoeuvred in the air with small guide ropes and guided by hand into position, this was done by positioning ladders in the exact locations needed.

1. The initial lift (fail) This lift we managed to test to see if the gridshell would behave as we predicted, when lifted. It did, the dome shape held and it felt and looked rigid. The strapping was secured to the outermost square nearest the perimeter to add stability. We then lifted it over the envelope and removed the support scaffolding from beneath it, to find it would not fit!

2. The corner pieces (fail) The corner pieces from the perimeter were significantly too long, we removed these and placed them on the inside to make certain that we knew where they would secure back when we fitted the gridshell in place.

3. The perimeter pieces (fail) We removed the perimeter timber pieces as they were proving to be a lot larger than we thought and the envelope, beams and walls were slightly smaller than what we

had anticipated.

4. Lifting from the centre (fail) We removed the strapping from the outer perimeter and placed it into the centre, this was done to make the dome sag slightly on the edges to make it slightly smaller like previously in Plaza de Bolivar, however this did not have the desired effect and we had to make more adjustments to the gridshell make up.

5. Lifting at an angle (fail) We lifted the gridshell from one side more than the other this way we thought we could angle it into position but still the gridshell was still, too big.

6. Hand sawing the edges We in a last attempt to lift it, hand sawed some of the edge timbers to make it fit into position, this was going to make things slightly difficult inside, however we thought we could get around this problem by making good internally after the gridshell was positioned.

7. Final lift (success!)

The lift was completed, and the grumpy crane driver got to go home.

Attempt 4

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Another lift in the baking Cali sun

The gridshell, once fixed into position, needed to be significantly altered to be adapted to the structural frame of the building. This was to reinstate the perimeter pieces and then the corner pieces. In some places their was little or no bearing and so some manoeuvring of the structure was done whilst it was in place to make a secure fix all around the perimeter.

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A happy team, holding the creator of the dome!

An early lift showing the gridshell from below

T bars that provided support for the gridshell structure

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Releasing the slings

Adjusting the T bar supports to accommodate for the gridshell.

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2.9 FITTING THE SOLAR PANELS AND THE FIRST MEMBRANE

Fitting solar panel supports

Solar panels fitted prior to second membrane

We began fitting the solar panels whilst simultaneously fitting the triangular roof pieces. The competition were relatively lenient with us up to a certain point and then they would give us a definite deadline in which we would then have to adhere to or we would not be able to take part in certain parts of the competition.

They mentioned how we should fix the solar panels to enable us to be part of the energy competition. This made fitting the solar panels a rush and it did not fit in with our construction sequence which will be expanded on in this section.

We started by fitting the supports to the top of the beam, down with large screws to the top of the beam, this was sped up by sitting on top of the beam and shimmying around the top, we were using harnesses and a rope line around the edge of the beam for safety.

This gave a secure fixing for supporting the solar panels. However they weren’t fully level which made fitting the solar panels difficult, but it was managed.

Lifting solar panels into position

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Using living pods for access to fit the triangular membrane pieces

Fitting the triangular pieces in a specific order

Fixing the triangular pieces to the gridshell with staples

The final fitting of the pieces

The triangular sections were pre cut and fixed in place with staples. We accessed these areas by standing on top of the living pods. At certain stages during this project we improvised in problematic situations. This was an example of this as we had a limited amount of step ladders and we were often working on several things at once.

After covering the entire gridshell we were becoming more confident in the gridshell structure and we began using it to walk on in certain areas. Towards the end of the roof construction we had 4 people on the top and were moving all around!

The triangular pieces were all cut to the same size, which were slightly larger than the desired size. This was to ensure we had something to hold onto to tension them.

We then started fitting them, deciding then whichever piece we thought would be a best fit. We soon realised that we needed to work in a methodical way to be able to access all of the roof to secure the triangular pieces.

We planned to work around from the outside edge towards the centre, this meant we minimised the distances we were reaching and also it meant we would only have to climb over the gridshell at the end of the process.

To tension these elements we would secure it in one corner and then pull it taught towards ourselves whilst stapling along the edges. This was a two person job.

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Initial sketch layout of membranes

The detailing of the upper roof was drawn immediately after the lower articulated ceiling was completed.

Construction was influenced by a number of conditions the team were pressured by including a lack of funding, an imminent deadline, the already fixed PV system, human ‘energy levels’ and the weather, all instilling a sense of urgency leading to a rush and “just build it” mentality.

The second membrane was needed to be able to keep the rain and elements out. This was to be achieved by propping up above the current gridshell with batons.

This would also provide an air gap between the two membranes promoting air flow and a non direct contact of sunlight onto the internal ceiling.

The first attempt to secure the outer membrane was made by making a test propped section that was then fixed to the perimeter of the skylight. The membrane was then fixed to this propped area and pulled out towards the edge of the envelope.

Second membrane prop locations and lengths

This is where we highlighted a previous issue which was that the water would have nowhere to go. There was no drainage in place to distribute the falling water.

However we needed to cover the roof in some way so we proceeded with this test and replicated a very similar outcome on the opposite side of the structure.

We started to come up with potential ideas of how we were going to lay out the larger sections of PVC. This was all figured out on site and was probably the reason that there were issues with parts of the project!

At that time, working hours were outside the trading times of the builders merchants (due to the site now being open to the public) therefore, even if money was freely available, extra material could not be delivered for another 6 - 12 hours.

The only material available to build the support structure was ASB - “All Spare Bits”, with even waste timber from other teams being used. The roof would be a PVC membrane, already purchased and ready for use, we were not in a position to change the design but we had to make it work.

Main junction box in centre of building

To cater to the movable pods we decided to have flexible wiring dropping down from the ceiling. This meant that the wiring for electricity ran up from the service pod to the top of the dome structure, splitting off to power each part of the prototype that required electricity. This included the sleeping pods, everything within the service pod, the central fan and lighting.

Because of this, there were no tripping hazards and, also, when we were putting on the membrane, where we were required to walk along the roof structure, we could work with relative ease as we were aware of where the wiring was. There was no risk of accidentally bending or breaking it if we were to stand on it because it was supported by the structure of the dome underneath it.

Electrical layout of prototype [Academic use only]

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Outer membrane test, that was kept as a permanent feature

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2.10 THE OUTER MEMBRANE AND SKYLIGHT The outer membrane had four separate components to it. These were two smaller sections running from the skylight to the centre points of two opposite sides.

This was done intentionally as we would not be able to access certain parts of the roof if we had done it in a different way.

The joints were tested with glue which needed 15 minutes to dry but once applied to both surfaces made a very secure bond. We tested different joints and came up with a knuckle like bond. This meant that the water would not pool on the join of the roof membrane.

We then calculated the length of the piece of PVC required and added an extra meter on each end so that we could then tension it tightly from each of the sides of the structure. Gluing this area was particularly

Gluing membranes together

Laying out outer membrane on top of structure

Void between the inner and outer membrane

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difficult as the length of the pieces were approx 10m long and keeping these strips of PVC straight was very difficult.

We then took these pieces to lay them out on the roof.

We laid them out initially and tried to fix them onto the top of the envelope as suggested but they were very difficult to fit as the solar panel supports were getting in the way.

Joint of membranes together

The void created between the upper membrane and lower membrane had no ventilation in it at all, this was of huge detriment to the house as it was acting as a heat blanket keeping all the hot air inside the internal space and not letting any air flow between the void.

Testing membrane with different folds for best waterproofing and strength

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Quick design sketch for a potential solution, if we had more time!

The solar panels being fitted early created some very bad problems; Firstly the second membrane was not waterproof as we needed to cut it to lap it onto the solar panel supports.

Solar panel location obstructing waterproofing on roof

Secondly if the water flowed out towards the edges of the building it had nowhere to go. This was discussed during our earlier sketching conversation and so we were fully aware of the issue, however we did not have enough time to finish it off in the way we intended.

There were different suggestions for the membrane layout on the upper membrane.

These were communicated on Whats app. As Elian was watching us from the web cam!

Solar panel and membrane problems with water proofing

Whats app conversation suggestions

Access issues with the corners of the roof

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2.11 ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH MEMBRANE

The heavens opened and we were still fixing the membrane!

The pooling on the membrane after a night of light rainfall

Pooling along the edges.

There were many issues at this stage in the project however this was our one major issue that impacted the potential function and use of the building. The roof was significantly pooling and the water did not have anywhere to go.

We decided to try and lift the internal skylight up to increase the pitch on the internal perimeter of the gridshell. We did this to try and divert the water towards the edges of the building. This, however, did not seem to solve the problems. To begin doing this we syphoned the pooling water off from the top of the roof, drinking stagnant water from the roof top probably wasn’t the best for the health but we managed to clear the roof of standing water to start propping.

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Proposed water flow

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Syphoning water that had pooled on roof to prepare for propping of the skylight

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Sketch section of proposed propping

The current propped roof join

Starting to prop up higher!

The design had very little fall for the roof. This was clearly shown when we saw pooling on the roof. The majority of other houses had some quite steep angled roofs to keep the rain off their structure. We thought this would help our design, even if we could get the water pooling further away from the centre of the building it would prevent serious problems. This was done by raising the internal skylight up by approx %50.

A broom was held out of the top of the skylight and then two members of the team called out when they could see the top of the broom as this was the highest we could go.

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Using scaffold feet to hold proposed propping in place

Finished propping

Pooling of water on membrane

The propping was secured in place by scaffolding feet, we did this by jacking up evenly around the edges of the skylight and then securing them in place by screwing in longer props.

This drained the water that had been accumulating from the previous nights rainfall. Water immediately streamed down the edge of the prototype, which was a positive sign as this meant that part of the roof would actually drain if there was a significant rainfall. However this only happened in one location so there was quite a lot of water still left pooling on the structure.

Its conception remains a paradox; the membrane used was manufactured as part of a permanent roofing system, though our real need was a quick temporary fix. The material’s physical characteristics were incompatible with the reality of construction. Would a lighter tarpaulin have been more successful?

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Pooling of water on membrane

The skylight initially was placed at a lower level. The hot air rising had nowhere to go, this was pushed down by the fan too. These were major issues as the internal temperature at times was 5 degrees centigrade hotter than outside!

We then, for a variety of reasons, raised the skylight which improved the internal performance of the building.

Detail of first propping skylight detail

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Roof with new propping

Raising the props and the height of the skylight, helped with the air flow through the building. We also fitted some small choc’s of timber to the polycarbonate screen to be able to create a fix to secure the polycarbonate down. This also created a gap for the air to flow through, this was a small gap but it still made a small difference to the structure.

This improved the air flow through the building and could be a potential area of improvement.

Pooling of water on membrane

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The frames

Frames on the floor ready to be lifted to the sole plate

Detail of roof sole plate

Frames installed.

Screens in Plaza de Bolivar

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2.12 SCREENS

Different screen sizes

0.

0.

GSEducationalVersion GSEducationalVersion

0.

A Bframes C 0. edged frames 0. frames A B Csteel A1:20 B C 1:20 C frames 0. frames A B CA Bframes A1:20 B C 1:20 in 1:20 The frames were covered polycarbonate sheets and then with mild 0.

C 1:20 1:20 0. frames 0. frames A B CA Bframes ABC 1:20 L-section. To cut the sheets, a vertical panel saw was used for maximum efficiency and precision. Fixing points in the steel were drilled and counter bored for a flush edge.

1:20

GSEducationalVersion

Screens in Cali, before louvres

Louvers The louvres were attached to increase ventilation within the house. We removed the polycarbonate sheets from two frames (on the east and west elevations) to allow for cross ventilation.

The louvres were measured at 20x90x970 to fit the interior width of the B frames.

We did this to provide constant airflow within the prototype house as the only other sources of airflow were the doors which were only open for some of the time and the raised skylight which didn’t provide much air movement but rather brought in the hot air that was collected within the two membrane of the roof.

Elevation showing screens with new louvred panel added

Components of typical screen were removed and replaced with timber slats

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c frame axo

1:20

c frame put together

1:20

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2.13 LATERAL ARCHES

Preparing the lateral arches and the gridshell roof

Lateral arches

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Lifting lateral arch onto ledge

To stick to the developed design, we put together the lateral arches to extend from the top corners of the beams and columns to each corner of the solar envelope on the ground. Because the arches were no longer a part of the roof structure, they were assembled and constructed separately. The geometry of the lateral arches were formed based on the plywood waffle structure to act as a canopy for solar shading.

The components had been cut before we had figured out how to prop the panels up on the building. It was only at a later stage that assembly took place, beginning with the corner components where a pad was staked to the ground and the corner piece was lifted up and held on a pre installed ‘shelf’. The corner ‘shelf’ was notched creating a yolk to prevent any slippage.

This shelf was extended around the perimeter of the building, but did not work in achieving the right angle so additional support was provided by simply screwing in short lengths of timber to push the arches further away from the building.

The supporting timbers for the base of the solar arches

The image below clearly shows the amount of solar exposure some of the sides had during the day.

The lateral arches not providing shading during the day time

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2.14 CONCLUSIONS OF BUILT PROTOTYPE

The old design showing the roof and canopy acting as a whole structure

The built canopy standing as a separate piece to the roof

The built canopy standing as a separate piece to the roof

70

BUILDING IN COLOMBIA

The design in Colombia saw two main which affected the roof and therefore the canopy and screens. Originally the screens were set to be sliding doors with glass screens.

We ended up with fixed hinged doors and polycarbonate screens to make for easy disassembly and reassembly with bolts. Where the original design raised concerns on overheating, the new one added to that the concern of security, or lack thereof.

While the overheating made for a very large issue within the performance of the house, there was another aspect of the build experience which meant that many aspects of the design which should have been discarded were kept for the sake of the competition. A prime example of this is the ‘solar canopy’, initially designed to provide shading to the house, whilst keeping within the solar envelope of the competition rules.

When we left for Colombia, the design of the roof extended out as a structural canopy, as it had from the very beginning. This, however, did not translate into the design of the hand constructed dome as there was no way, within the time and budget that we had, to extend the dome structure to act as a canopy with the beams intersecting it. Having said this, we were under a lot of pressure from the competition organisers to keep the design as close as to what we had submitted to them in terms of project drawings.

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

structural dome.

While it may have looked structural, the canopy was stabilised with props, so in reality, we were completely cheating. In addition to this, the solar shading was really not doing as well a job as it should have been doing and we ended up with major overheating. To further the heating of the prototype, because the roof had a double membrane, hot air was collecting inside it and being blown in to the house through the skylight, by the fan. At the time, we made a quick decision to increase ventilation in the prototype by taking out the polycarbonate from two panels and turning the frames into louvred panels, so the hot air that was coming in had a way out of the prototype. This made quite a significant change but had there been more time, could have been developed to be more successful.

Another problem we encountered was, to be able to compete, we had to put our solar panels on by a certain date, regardless of the stage we were at in construction.

This meant that we ended up putting on the second membrane while the solar panels were up. Although this was not the sole reason, it is because we couldn’t get a tight fit around the perimeter of the roof structure, that we experienced both pooling and leaking within the roof.

In terms of the competition, then, the design had succeeded, as the development of the design seemed to grow in a relatively linear way. The reality of it, however, was that we ended up with a solar canopy, that was in no way structural, but more of an appeasement to the competition, there for the sole purpose of looking like a

71

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Trouble with tightening second membrane while working around the solar panels

Aerial view of pooling on second membrane

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BUILDING IN COLOMBIA

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

One of the louvred panels providing cross ventilation

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

Plan view of natural lighting study showing the majority of the prototype in shade but corner posts show very high level of exposure to sun. Time: Midday

Competition measured results

Although this daylighting study shows that the majority of the prototype interior would be shaded, in reality, lighting was not an issue as we ended up being the brightest house in the competition. Having said this, we carried out our design that focused highly on bringing light into the building which created problems with the excessive heating of the house.

The competition results also showed that the SOL_ID house was the least humid of all of the competing houses, something else we had not predicted in the design process. Even though we didn’t end up implementing any passive strategies in dealing with humidity, a lot of time was spent researching and designing such strategies and systems. If we had used this time to research materials, as well as ventilation strategies, less problems would have arose despite changes in the overall construction design.

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

Solar gain on screens

The public tours had visitors commenting on the high temperature of the prototype

The reality of the roof and solar canopy’s environmental strategy

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2.15 QUANTITY ANALYSIS SOL_ID MATERIAL MASS ESTIMATION Densities Used (kg/m3 - unless specified)

Type / Location

A 7850 Foundations 530 Foundations 530 Foundations 7850 Screws

Material name

Quantity

Total Volume Individual (m3) Weight (Kg)

Unit

FOUNDATION Steel profile 2mm x 10.7mx40mm Timber chock blocks 300mmx15mmx40mm Timber stud column footing 650mmx700mmx115mm

HBS 3535

6

0.2680

37.68

226.08

35

0.1644

2.07

72.35

4 150

0.2163 0.0006

28.67 0.029

114.69 4.33

0.65

A - Total

417.44

170

0.0183

9.699

1,648.83

800 1400 650

0.0022 0.0022 0.0170

0.0216 0.0123 0.0288

17.26 17.25 18.75

Vol = B 530 Structure

Total Weight (Kg)

FLOOR SLAB Pine studs 1 1/2 " x 6" x 3960mm

7850 Screws

TBS 6140 HBS 580 HBS 3535 KKTM 540

4500

0.0030

0.0052

23.58

7850 Bolts

1/2 x 3" x130mm

540

0.003

0.0474

25.60

Muts Washers 820 Floor Finish (Int)

1/2 x 3 1/2" 1/2" washers Zapan decking 2400mm x 125mm x 15mm

118 m2

1.726

3.526

1,415.40

800 Underfloor

MDF / Semi-hardboards 1830mmx2440mmx8mm "Formaleta"

18

0.639

28.400

523.98

1.3 Underfloor Ramp

Laquer -

15 cans

0.075

6.000

61.50

2.49

B - Total

3,752.15

26 44

1.8550

37.520

975.52

0.9016

9.699

426.76

7850 Screws 7850 Screws 7850 Screws

Vol = C 700 Beams

STRUCTURE (COLUMNS/ BEAMS) Birch plywood (marine grade) 2440mm x1220mm x18mm

530 Columns

Pine studs 1 1/2 " x 6" x 3960mm

70

0.8412

9.699

678.93

7850 Bolts Muts Washers

530 Beams

1/2 x 3" x130mm 1/2 x 3 1/2" 1/2" washers

100

0.003

0.0474

4.74

7850 Screws

HBS 580 HBS 3535

600

0.0009

0.0123

7.39

0.0039 3.61

0.0288 C - Total

4.33 2,093.34

100

1.1321

6.2540

600.01

400

0.0006

0.0123

4.93

150 200

0.0002 0.00085

0.0006 0.0327

0.09 6.54

7

0.54

21.06

147.44

steel 'L' profile 3mm x 22mm x 2mm

33

0.0109

2.3550

77.72

Birch plywood (marine grade) 2440mm x1220mm x18mm

10

0.4499 2.13

34.840 D - Total

348.40 1,185.13

0.2246 0.29

4.2400 2.3850

119.04

7850 Screws

Pine studs 1 1/2 " x 6" x 3960mm

150 Vol =

D 530 Frames 7850 Screws 7850 Screws 7850 Bolts Muts Washers 1.7Kg/m2 Polycarbonate 7850 profiles 700 Int/ Ext Cladding

ENVELOPE AND CLADDING SYSTEM Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 3200mm

HBS 580 Steel Screw (D)4mm (L)50mm Bolts 1/2"x 3" x 90mm 1/2 x 3 1/2" 1/2" washers 8mm 5.90x2.10m for Panels

Vol = E

CANOPY (lower)

530 Grid shell roof (1) Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 1800mm Grid shell roof (2) Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 900mm 1.5Kg/m2 Grid shell roof (3) UPVC Membrane roll 7850 Grid shell

Welded steel connection plates

Bolts

Bolts 1/2"x 3" x 90mm

Muts

1/2 x 3 1/2"

Washers 530 Supports 7850 Screws

1/2" washers Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 1800mm

HBS 3535

32 64 60 m2

na

na

90.00

53

0.011

3.1400

166.42

150

0.00085

0.0327

4.91

4

0.0281

4.2400

14.88

40

0.0039 0.56

0.0288 E - Total

1.15 396.40

0.1563 0.0715 0.0002 na

3.0210 3.9220 0.0123 na

82.84 37.90 1.23 98.13

0.23

F - Total

220.10

2 48 11

0.1177 0.3472

37.520 31.290

75.04 243.04

0.1283

6.0950

68.00

9

0.1942

11.766

105.89

400 24 4 4

0.0006 0.3032 0.1360 0.2163

0.0123 6.0950 22.1000 28.67

4.93 160.70 72.08 114.69

3 8

0.1056

31.290

73.92

0.0880

6.0950

46.64

0.0005 1.64

0.0123 F - Total

3.70 968.63

11.30 Total weight =

9,033.19

Vol = F 530 Upper roof 530 Center prop 7850 Screws 1.5Kg/m2 Upper roof

CANOPY (upper) Timber stud 1"x2" (40x40mm) x 3200mm Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 2100mm

HBS 580 UPVC Membrane roll

12 11 100 65.42 m2 Vol =

G 700 Shelf 700 Shades

SOLAR SHADES Birch plywood (marine grade) 2440mm x1220mm x18mm Birch plywood (marine grade) 2440mm x1220mm x15mm

530 Shelf structure

Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 3200mm

530 Structure

Pine studs 40mm x 140mm x 3960mm

7850 530 650 530

Screws Frames Frames Foundations

HBS 580 Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 3200mm Timber post 1"x2" (90x90mm) x 4200mm Timber stud arch footing 650mmx700mmx115mm

700 Shades

Birch plywood (marine grade) 2440mm x1220mm x15mm

530 Shelf structure

Timber stud 1"x2" (40x90mm) x 3200mm

7850 Screws

HBS 580

300 Vol =

Build summary

Average build density = 799.39 kg/m3

Total Volume =

77

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

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2.16 DRAWINGS AND PHOTOGRAPHS

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Rendered worms eye view

81

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BUILDING IN COLOMBIA

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Rendered perspective showing construction make up

83

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85

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

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87

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89

90

6.Woodenchockf oundat i on bl ockssuppor t90mm x40mm st eelboxsect i onpr of i l es

Sk y l i ghtDet ai l 1: 10

RoofEdgeDet ai l 1: 10

Per s pec t i v eSec t i on NTS

01

02

03

Design in the UK

Building in Colombia

Resolutions

1.1 Introduction to SOL_ID

2.1 Introduction and SENA

3.1 Introduction

1.2 What was going to be built?

2.2 Gridshell lift off!

3.2 Ventilation

1.3 Initial design development

2.3 Gridshell lift 2

3.3 Waterproofing

1.4 The inherited design

2.4 Plaza de Bolivar exhibition

3.4 Conclusion

1.5 From 1:10 to 1:1

2.5 Roof joints and prototype

3.5 Drawings

1.6 Prototyping plywood joints

2.6 Drawing roof joints

1.7 Performance of the building

2.7 Gridshell layout

1.8 Testing strategies

2.8 The first lift (Cali)

1.9 Humidity

2.9 Fitting solar panels and membrane

1.10 Temperature

2.10 Outer membrane and skylight

1.11 Daylight

2.11 Membrane’s issues

1.12 Rain water collection

2.12 Screens

1.13 A leap of faith

2.13 Lateral arches

1.14 Drawings

2.14 Conclusions of built prototype 2.15 Quantity analysis 2.16 Drawings and photographs

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

92

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

3.1 INTRODUCTION

The project was hindered by designing without a full understanding of our own level of skill or the materials and technology available to us. The following responses are drawn as though the team were still in Colombia, using the tools at our disposal.

The comfort of the prototype was monitored and recorded throughout the competition, some results surprised the team; the relative humidity outperformed our expectations (41.6%).

However, the indoor temperature reached a staggering 33 degrees, exceeding the outdoor temperature in some cases.

The majority of our environmental problems arose from inadequate ventilation across the elevations and articulated ceiling. Paired with inadequate shading from the lateral arches and a lack of an appropriate (or any) drainage system, it was evident that improvements could have been made.

SOL_ID EXPECTATIONS

SOL_ID PERFORMANCE

60-70%

41.6%

4% 4000 LUX

30651.9 LUX

23.80째 min 25.89째 max

33.4째 average

1800 L

41.6%

93

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

Diagram of airflow from East to West

Diagram of airflow from North to South

94

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

3.2 VENTILATION COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS : LOUVRE SYSTEMS

During the Solar Decathlon competition we had the opportunity to analyse our prototype against the other competitors throughout construction. It was apparent that little experience of a tropical climate was a huge disadvantage to team HelioMet. We were illprepared for the climate during our site operations, but it also manifested itself in the design of SOL_ID by underestimating how critical the ventilation strategy was.

There were a series of overall design principles learnt from other houses that informed our on-site response to the ‘completed’ design. The majority of the prototypes had extensive louvre systems in their façades to provide ventilation and reduce solar gain.

Yarumo

Pei

Kuxtal

Unsolar

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

ON SITE RESPONSE

The screens stand independent from the articulated ceiling, fixed in place with bolts to a timber sole plate and stabilised by the surrounding plywood cladding.

The frames were clad with polycarbonate sheets. The material choice was primarily driven by cost, however there were other advantages which became essential to the nature and time constraint of the construction.

It is lightweight, safely transported and workable.

Having sourced everything ‘off the shelf’, and due to our non-existent command of the Spanish language, polycarbonate quickly became our only viable choice of cladding. Therefore its use in the following resolution is the most realistic.

The lateral arches failed to sufficiently shade the panels and prevent direct sun hitting the polycarbonate, especially on the east and west elevations. Despite the material’s advantages, it proved inadequate in a tropical climate by exaggerating solar gains. With insufficient ventilation, the internal temperature and relative humidity would rapidly increase, peaking during midday to late afternoon. Closing the doors to secure the building inhibited airflow further creating a stagnant and uncomfortable space.

Image of as built louvre screen.

Diagram showing the reallocation of the louvre panels

96

Diagram showing the direction of cross ventilation

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

LOUVRES

A sporadic on-site decision to add single frame louvre panels (90 x 20mm timbers at 180mm centres) to the east and west faรงades drastically increased the comfort level due to the breeze through the space.

With openings now on all faรงades, despite a more obvious feeling of air movement, a rise in humidity was recorded. Perhaps this was exacerbated due to the overall humidity in Cali, as December sees humidity levels rise up to 94% in the region.

Revising the position of the louvres, cross ventilation would undoubtedly improve if they were placed across the complete North and South faรงades (adjacent to the entrances), in turn the original louvre panels would be replaced with polycarbonate screens. Placing a louvre system across the full facade allows the building to be secured whilst maintaining maximum ventilation.

1

2

4

3

1

90x40mm timber louvre

2

Sapan floor

3

Timber cassette joist

4

Sole plate bolt connection

Sketch detail of louvre panel

Sketch elevation of full louvre facade.

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

MYCELIUM

Altering the lateral arches to increase shade to the East and West facade is unfeasible. To mitigate the solar gains experienced on these faรงades we propose the use of Mycelium. This is a compound made from organic material such as coffee waste and sawdust and bound together with a mushroom fungus. Produced correctly, it has fantastic insulation properties, is lightweight and fireproof. Its application during the competition had to be adjusted from the initial plan due to problems with its manufacture, unfortunately the bricks were less successfully demonstrated than hoped for.

The existing East and West frames could be retrofitted by fixing an additional polycarbonate sheet to the interior and infilling with Mycelium. The Mycelium was low cost and sourced locally, using it in a more functional way to its current state would hopefully raise its profile within the context of SOL_ID. Stabilising the Mycelium between a double skin of polycarbonate utilises the material in a purposeful way whilst enhancing the performance of the building, without the price tag.

1

2

3

4 1

Polycarbonate

2

Mycelium

3 4

Sketch Detail section of High Insulation Panel

98

Sole Plate Fixing Sapan Floor

Diagram of air flow across plan

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

Rendered Interior image illustrating Mycelium and Louvre faรงades

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COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS : RAISED ROOF

Another feature of many of houses in the Solar Villa was the use of a raised roof to allow free passage of air.

This style of roof acts as a rain canopy and solar shade rather than enclosure. Heat radiated on the underside of the roof escapes instead of affecting the internal space. Furthermore, heat from the interior spaces can be ventilated using simple construction details without the risk of water ingress.

Habitect

Calicivita

WIWA

Casa Uruguaya

Panamass

Mi House

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RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

ROOF CAVITY

With the air current across the internal space resolved, our attention is directed towards the articulated ceiling.

The pillow of trapped hot air between the upper and lower membrane radiates heat from the ceiling as well as introducing hot air into the flow generated by the fan.

Perforating the beam introduces fresh air between the two membranes, this will make for a cooler roof and introduce air flow where previously still air existed.

The size of the perforations is dictated by the structural integrity of the plywood and the position of the lower membrane. The size and shape of the openings is based on a rule of thumb for castellated beams (the opening is not to exceed 60% of the distance between top and bottom chord). The lower diagram shows this maximum opening clashing with the lower membrane, the opening is adjusted to suit and placed wherever structurally viable.

Section sketch of beam

Sketch diagram of desired perforations

Sketch detail showing location of perforations

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SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

SKYLIGHT

Another product of the time constraints was the polycarbonate skylight fixed tightly to the roof. The tight fix allowed only a small amount of hot air to seep out. The airflow through the opening provided by the fan only encouraged movement of hot air, collected within the roof, into the space. Increasing the opening and fixing the panel higher would allow for more hot air to escape through the top opening. In addition, the increased angle of the opening provides a surface runoff of water onto the roof to prevent pooling on the polycarbonate.

The polycarbonate sheet would first have a timber frame screwed to its face, which would provide a firm fixing point to the upstands, connecting it to the roof structure whilst making the sheet more rigid.

1 3

102

Polycarbonate sheet

2

Timber frame

3 4

4

2

Sketch detail of skylight support

Diagram showing air flow prior to skylight opening

1

Diagram showing air flow after opening

Watertight galvanized fixings 20 x 75mm timber props screwed in place New roof build up

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

CONCLUSION A data analysis of the model with added resolutions supports the argument for improvement to the prototype. Comparative to analysis generated in each stage, performance improves with the addition of the ventilation resolutions.

December 21st, 9:00

December 21st, 12:00

December 21st, 15:00

September 21st, 9:00

September 21st, 12:00

September 21st, 15:00

June 21st, 9:00

June 21st, 12:00

June 21st, 15:00

Diagram showing the expected air flow through the prototype after changes.

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3.3 WATERPROOFING DRAINAGE

This solution addresses further issues with the roof whilst mindful of which built elements can be removed and what materials already exist on site (waste reduction). Improvements are made to the structural integrity of the complete roof and supports access to the deck, without changing the ceiling’s aesthetic quality.

This utilises the membrane in a flat roof scenario, therefore a rigid sheet material must be incorporated to eliminate pooling and any need for tensioning. The primary concern is the weight of the additional plywood and support structure. To overcome this, the upper structure (instead of acting independently) combines with the gridshell to form a series of trusses - or a double gridshell - changing its relationship with the lower roof from a dead load to reinforcement.

As previously mentioned, the unsuccessful membrane installation was due to the premature fixing of the solar panels. They disallowed access to the area crucial for the drainage of water, therefore the beginning of this alteration starts with their removal.

The lateral arches must be removed first which prompts changes the ‘shelf’. Once re-installed along the top edge of the beam at a lower level, a channel is created around the building’s perimeter - a gutter where water flow is controlled.

Pooling on upper side of membrane

Extent of pooling on under side of membrane

Diagram of tent roof

104

Diagram of flat roof

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

1 2

6 8

1

Solar Panel and framework: the timber support is scribed to the gradient of the roof to avoid any clash.

2

Lateral Arch

3

9

7 15

10

4

New roof supports manufactured in a similar way to the existing, fixed with bolts. The additional weight of the proposed causes concern with potential failure of the ‘T’s which takes on all roof loads. Following discussions with our structural engineer, the point of failure would be at the fixing points. Bolts increase the maximum load each support can take and reduces the risk of the vertical timber splitting.

5

New circular opening through plywood, reveal lined with 3mm plywood.

6

Existing PVC membrane

7

Rigid foam insulation

8

18mm plywood deck

9

Existing structure retrofitted in place

10

Additional props

11

Steel brackets welded to the gridshell nodes

12

Steel eyelets welded to plate and screwed in place

13

3mm stainless steel cable

14

Tensioner

3 12

13

11

5

14

4

Shelf: The components are rearranged, the lower timber batten is placed on top vertically.

Brackets are installed along the length of the shelf reducing the bending moment at the fixing point.

15

New gutter

Sketch detail of proposed roof resolution

105

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

Access to basic arc welding equipment and steel profiles is all that is required to fabricate the new fixing points to the gridshell connections.

Each additional connector is fabricated on the ground, then welded in situ with a sheet of plywood protecting the lower membrane from spatter. Structurally, the ‘nodes’ are the most appropriate place for taking additional load from above.

Water is directed away from the building at the corners where ducting can be concealed within the lateral arch construction.

3

2

5 4

1

6

1

Existing steel connector

2

Tensioner

3 4

Diagram of roof connection

2

1

Drainage sketch

106

1

Standardised plastic downpipe components

2

Silicone seal between downpipe and PVC membrane

3mm Stainless Steel cable 10mm (OD) x 80mm mild steel round bar

5

3 x 40 x 40mm mild steel plate (pre drilled and countersunk screw holes)

6

Existing and additional 40 x 40mm props

RESOLUTIONS

SOL_ID - ATA REPORT

3.4 CONCLUSION

This

part of SOL_ID’s construction taught us to question the appropriateness of selected materials with confidence. An expensive ‘roofing’ membrane does not necessarily make for a sound roof if its constituent parts have not been considered. As soon as installation began, the position of the PVs, the membranes weight, stiffness and bulk made for an impossible task.

The

team are now aware of why inappropriate design and foreseen problems must be addressed immediately - the upper roof should have been more researched prior to making a decision on materials and overall design as opposed to concentrating solely on the dome, which was only one aspect of the roof structure.

Leaving our major complications aside, as previously iterated, we found ourselves struggling with what should have been simple tasks due to a language barrier, lack of transportation, and our limited time spent in Colombia locating sites and materials. Each of these issues had a knock on effect on the time it took to complete our prototype and the design decisions made.

The

importance of understanding the full comprehensive extent of a climate and context remains at the forefront of this learning curve. Environmental considerations became lost in the mission to complete construction. This section of resolutions allowed us to reflect on relatively simple improvements after having fully understood and considered the conditions and environment in which we were designing in.

Rendered image of furnished prototype

107

108

Ref l ect edCei l i ngPl an 1: 25

2

4

3

1 5

Transversal Section Scale 1:25

1. Aluminium louvred panels along north and south walls

2. Raised skylight to increase air 3. Structural T-piece to disperse circulation the roofs weight evenly

4. Photovoltaic panel

5. Polycarbonate screens with a mycelium infill to reduce the amount of heat intake

3

5

4

1

2 6

Longitudinal Section Scale 1:25

1. Louvred wall - increasing air circulation

2. Polycarbonate screens with mycelium infill

3. Raised skylight to increase air circulation

4. Structural T-piece to disperse 5. Photovoltaic panel the roofs weight evenly

6. Entrance/exit door

3 4 2

1

Interior Elevation Scale 1:25

1. Aluminium louvred panels along north and south walls

2. Structural T-piece to disperse the roofs weight evenly

3. Dotted line - Beam structure behind plywood finish

4. Punctured holes to allow for air circulation between the two membranes

Wor msEy eVi ew 1: 50

Expl odedAxonomet r i c 1: 200

REFLECTIONS

POSITIVE

AUTHORS CARLOTTA CONTE

‘Challenge and question my own point of view’.

NEGATIVE: ‘Realising how difficult it is to stick to your intentions, no matter how good they are’.

‘Super amazing teamwork and drive created a house

CLARE REID

against all odds”.

‘A

fascinating

‘A proper well-thoughtthrough design created by the people actually building would have been better.’.

educational

experience

that

all

ELLIOT DUNN

architecture students should participate in’.

‘The

element

of

team

projects

in

a

university

environment can bring with it problems and a lack of individual freedom’.

‘Fast formation of a really strong team in September’.

JULIE HUTCHINSON

‘Time constraints were key! Rapid decisions, in an arguably unrealistic time frame led to some issues’.

’We were forced to think in a pragmatic and considerate

MEIS ALSAEGH

way’.

‘There wasn’t always time for on site testing which meant we made mistakes that could have been avoided’.

‘More was learned in 7 weeks than in my entire BA;

NICK STONE

because we had to’.

‘Amazing educational experience and a team that

much left’.

OLEG SEVELKOV

handles force majeure situations extremely well’.

‘A brilliant learning process, and made some life long

‘All things considered, it’s a miracle this managed to get built”.

OLIVER HESTER

friends!’

‘The 4th year cohort - what a team!’

‘No one thinks about time until you realise there’s not

‘Lack

of

organisation,

and

awareness

of

the

environment we were designing for’.

PETER DEW

‘Undefined materials, facilities and equipment - a recipe for disaster’.

‘We showcased how innovative solutions could be

RIAM IBRAHEM

applied by the everyday man’.

‘I learnt more about the realities of designing and

‘The lack of thinking aside of the project when designing’.

RICHARD O’HANLON

‘Before I was naive and optimistic, now I am tired’.

building than I have learnt so far in all of my education’.

‘The inspirational work-ethic of a determined team of amateur ‘self-builders’

ZAEEM AHMED

‘Despite gathering contextual research, we wasted valuable time on an irrelevant design.’