Design Research by Roshna Sadanandan

Research Biophilic Design By Hiba Omar / Roshna .S. / Syeda Quratulain / Tayyaba Javaid / Zainab KhairulAmin

Contents ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

What is Biophilic Design? Different theories & research that scientiﬁcally support Biophilia? Beneﬁts of Biophilia for the Users of Office Spaces 14 Design Principles & Patterns Biophilic Design Features Use: Nature In Space, Analogues & Nature of Space Users Opinion in Case Studies Examples

The word Biophilia has Greek origin where 'bio' means “life” and 'philia’ means “love of”. So, it generally refers to the love of life or living things. Moreover, it is deﬁned as “an innately emotional affiliation of human beings to other living organisms. Innate means hereditary and hence part of ultimate human nature.” – E.O. Wilson The term Biophilic design refers to the use of natural features like plants, daylight in an interior space or the use of materials, forms, colors and patterns that resemble the nature, to reciprocate towards this innate human attraction to nature. ● It provides a way of designing spaces and buildings that are based on human needs. ● Can be applied to both new and existing buildings and to exterior and interior.

We need Biophilic Design because, World Health Organization says that stress-related diseases including cardiovascular problems and mental disorders were the main illnesses recorded in 2020. This is because of the diminished connection with nature and the use of excessive technology as an alternate that the mental health issues are increasing day by day. Due to this fact, today’s world needs that connection with nature more than we needed ever before. By incorporating nature, natural light, nature-based materials, etc. can reduce stress levels and others. In offices, it can help in increasing the working efficiency of the employees, making them concentrated and focused in a clean and refreshing environment.

3 Categories of Biophilic Design Implementation

Nature in Space

Nature Analogue

Nature of Space

Involves direct integration of nature

Indirect use of nature i.e., through its representatives like color, pattern, materials etc.

Imitating properties of natural environment in spaces

Nature in Space

Nature Analogue

The picture above shows the use of daylight in the space as well as bringing water element. While the picture below, skylights are used along with a green wall for bringing nature to the space.

03 Nature of Space Pictures here show how natural environments are mimicked as green carpet resembling grass as seen in the picture on right.

In this category of biophilic design, as seen in the ﬁrst picture, patterns that resemble nature are used. The wall texture here resembles sand waves. While in the picture on the right shows how Dandelions are used as hanging lights along with wooden texture.

Savanna Hypothesis

Attention Restoration Theory

Ecological Valence Theory

A lot of research has been done about our response towards nature and why does it have effects on our physical and psychological health. Some of the theories supporting this effect are listed:

According to this hypothesis, humans always prefer to be in an open environment having a better view of possible threats or prey. Since Biophilia emphasizes designing spaces that resembles the natural ones, these promotes excitement in open areas and focus in quiet ones.

This theory suggests a use of natural views for relaxation after our brains are tired of constant work and attention. This helps in viewing our own spaces better after having a short deviated attention towards nature.

Blue Space Theory This theory suggests incorporating water elements into the interior space. Beneﬁts: Reduces stress levels, blood pressure and heart rates. Enhances relaxation, concentration. Positive emotions and memory functions.

Use of Biophilic design in workplaces, educational institutes, retails, domestic and hospitality sectors have proven to be beneficial not only in health and well being of users but also in financial implications reducing cost and having profits. In offices with biophilic design, after collecting evidences the following benefits were observed: • Productivity rates were elevated • Stress levels were lowered • Staff was happier and more creative • Staff was also retained and there were less absentees. Hence, incorporating biophilic features into the workplace can enhance employee health, motivation, problem solving, and creativity. In effect, it can lead to superior performance and productivity. While in other places like educational institutes it is believed to have impacted the focus of the users helping then concentrate and improve their academic performances. In hotels and restaurants, it reduces stress levels in both staff and guests and ensures return of users to the rooms having a connection with nature.

Design patterns/principles provide ways of implementing biophilic design within our built environment, be it exterior or interior. Referring to the three categories of biophilic design implementation, these 14 principles are broadly categorized into these three groups.

Visual Connection with Nature

Non-Visual Connection with Nature

Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli

Thermal & Airﬂow Variability

Analyzed connections with nature that are temporary and not predicted. Beneﬁts: Better heart and nervous system functioning and improved concentration. Implementation: Play with Light and shadow, kinetic facades, breeze allowing swaying of grass, light reﬂected off water tank etc.

Changes in temperature, humidity, airﬂow that reminds of natural environment. Beneﬁts: Impacts on pleasure, wellbeing, comfort, productivity and concentration. Implementations: Manually opened windows, outdoor workspaces, visible mechanical ventilation.

Connection with nature through senses other than sight. Beneﬁts: Reduces BP and stress hormones, improves cognitive performance and mental health. Implementations: Scent diffusers, sounds of water or nature, use of materials and tactile textures that remind of nature.

Nature in Space

Presence of Water

Dynamic & Diﬀuse Light

Connections with natural systems

Biomorphic Forms & Patterns

To play with light and shadow over time to create conditions imitating nature. Beneﬁts: Increased visual comfort. Implementations: Daylight from different angles, ﬁrelight, planting to create shadow,

This is the awareness of natural processes such as seasonal and temporal. For instance, having a view of outside sky/weather, water bodies or plants.

To play with patterns, textures, contours that imitate nature. For instance, Art Nouveau is believed to use these forms and patterns.

A space that allows hearing seeing or touching of water. Beneﬁts: Reduces stress, BP and heart rate. Increased feeling of tranquility, concentration and memory restoration. Implementations: Water walls, aquariums, paintings of ocean, blue hues, fountains, LED screens.

adjustable blinds, skylights etc.

Nature in Space

Natural Analogies

Material Connection with Nature

Complexity & Order

Use of materials and elements that resemble the environment of the local space. For instance, artwork mimicking nature, tree-like columns etc.

This pattern refers to the use of spatial design that reminds of natural spatial hierarchy. For instance, use of wallpapers, glass-patterned partitions etc.

Prospect

Mystery

It is an unobstructed view for better planning and observation. For instance, low partitions, wayﬁnding through signposts or structure etc.

Use of unclear view to attract a user go into an environment. For instance, use of hanging plants, mirrors etc.

Refugee

Risk/Peril

To provide a way of escape from behind or overhead. For instance, outdoor seating benches or indoor gardens provide a refuge from tight indoor spaces.

It’s an identiﬁable threat along with a reliable safeguard. For instance, uneven ﬂooring, hanging walkways etc.

Natural Analogies Nature of Space

● Case Study 1: Glumac Shanghai When Glumac had the chance to move their office into the third ﬂoor of a 100-year-old mansion in Shanghai’s historic Chang Ning District, they jumped at the opportunity. Given the poor outside air quality, creating a healthy indoor environment was paramount. Taking guidance from Terrapin Green’s 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design, which coalesce Kellert’s Elements and Attributes into simple categories, the team focused on creating visual connections to nature, incorporating natural shapes and forms, bringing dynamic and diffused lighting into the space and promoting healthy indoor air. Combining these biophilic elements with traditional Chinese motifs and materials that recognize the building’s historic context, the transformed office celebrates the heritage of its site and ensures the health and comfort of its occupants.

Color

Plants

In bright hues that evoke apples, lime, grass, and new leaves, the color green is used to infuse freshness and a visual cohesiveness to the office space. In the carpet and chair cushions, in the tile backsplash, bistro kitchen, the translucent partition, and even in the computer screen savers, green accents connect with the Kvatrat cloud installation and the live plants to create a coherent and calming space.

Glumac employees enjoy intimate contact with nature through the plants on the green wall and the potted plants scattered throughout the office. The plants bring color into the space and connect with the garden courtyard, but they also contribute to good indoor air quality—an important consideration for occupants, as the building is located in a district known for its polluted air. The living wall is dominated by Sansevieria trifasciata, or mother-in-law’s tongue, which was chosen for its air-ﬁltering qualities.

Shapes Resisting Straight Lines & Right Angles One of the most striking features in the renovated office is the Kvadrat cloud installations that are incorporated throughout the space. Designed by internationally acclaimed designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec in collaboration with Danish ﬁrm Kvatrat, the “clouds” are made from triangular textile panels arranged in three-dimensional pyramids. The pyramids can then be stitched together to create an endless variety of organic shapes. Inspired by cultural symbols such as dragons and clouds, Glumac employees pieced the clouds together themselves, creating a pleasing pattern of green, white, gray, and black shapes that curve around ceilings, walls, and columns. Not only do these installations provide a playful and softening balance to an otherwise rectilinear space, they also provide an important sound-absorbing function.

Simulation of Natural Features The Chinese consider clouds auspicious, and cloud motifs appear frequently in Chinese art and architecture. In the Glumac office, Chinese “lucky clouds” are incorporated into the glass entry doors as graceful swirls, which are echoed in the intricately engraved stools across from the reception desk. The naturalistic pattern in the carpeting is suggestive of wispy cirrus clouds or ﬂowing water.

● Case Study 2: Bullitt Center Located in a dense urban neighborhood near downtown Seattle, the six-story Bullitt Center was the first commercial office building to be fully certified as a Living Building. The design team set out to create a building that would last at least 250 years—a lifespan closer to that of a tree than of today’s typical buildings. The trees of the Pacific Northwest served as the building’s inspiration and its central metaphor. The building form consists of exposed structural wood beams and ceilings and a “canopy” of solar modules that still allow in plenty of light through the skylights. With health and wellness of occupants at the forefront, the team designed the building to provide all occupants with access to daylight and fresh air. An “irresistible staircase” serves as the main means of moving through the building, connecting tenants with views of the city and each other. The site was surrounded by three streets, one a busy thoroughfare linking downtown Seattle to Lake Washington. As part of the project development, one of these streets was permanently closed, creating a pedestrian plaza between the building and a neighborhood pocket park called McGlivra Park. By cultivating an ecosystem of integrated indoor and outdoor spaces, the building has brought the block to life.

Environmental Features ●

Air

The Bullitt Center relies on natural ventilation, with fully operable windows that allow the building to breathe in response to the weather. When the windows are open, breezes circulate through the spaces, connecting the occupants to the sounds and smells of the surrounding urban neighborhood. Serving as a transition space linking inside and outside, the irresistible staircase is not heated. Instead, it is ventilated with fresh air and maintains the same temperature as outside, providing those who choose the stairs over the tucked-away elevator with a multisensory experience, along with some physical activity.

●

Natural Materials

The Bullitt Center is the first timber-framed structure to be permitted in Seattle since the 1920s. The exposed glu-lam structural members and wood ceilings, sourced from regional and FSC-certified forests, connect the occupants of the building to the great conifer forests of the Pacific Northwest, and the natural wood palette brings warmth and texture to this urban environment.

●

Views & Vistas

The building’s long vertical windows create a strong connection to the outdoor environment, from street to sky. Most floors provide distant glimpses of Mount Rainier as well as close views of the trunks and leafy branches of the plane trees in nearby McGilvra Park. From within the building, people can enjoy a unique perspective, looking down on the green canopy of the urban forest with the geometry of high-rise buildings in the distance. The irresistible staircase frames views of downtown Seattle and the Puget Sound, connecting the building to the city and its region and compelling people up the flights to the final landing, where they are rewarded with expansive views framed by the overhanging solar canopy.

Light & Space ●

Natural Light

In a region prone to overcast winter days and rain, it was especially important to welcome as much natural light into the building as possible. On each floor, tall ceilings with large, full-height vertical windows allow light to penetrate deeply into the building, filling the spaces with bright and dynamically changing light. Workstations are open, allowing the light to proliferate throughout the offices. Natural light also fills the staircase, highlighting the warm wood tones of the stair treads. Throughout the building, the combination of natural light on wood grain connects people with the natural environment, right in the heart of the city.

●

Spaciousness

Occupants experience spaciousness on different scales, depending on where they are in the building. With its soaring ceiling, the lobby is an airy volume grounded by cement columns. In the office environment, generous ﬂoor-to-ceiling heights and open layouts contribute to the feeling of spaciousness. Full-height windows invite light to bounce through the spaces; these vertical bands of glass extend to the ceilings, which seem to ﬂoat above them. The staircase, composed of wood, steel, and transparent glass, functions as an outdoor room in an indoor space.

●

Light & Shadow

When the sun shines, stripes of sun and shadow move across the floor of the Bullitt Center, marking time and season and orienting people to place. When animated with light, the staircase becomes a functional sculpture. The stair treads filter incoming sunlight, casting diagonally patterned shadows on the walls and on the flights and floors below. As clouds gather and disperse, occupants experience the gradations of light and connect with outside conditions. The building’s design breaks down the barriers between inside and outside. The walls can open up entirely, creating an open-air pavilion, and the verandas provide shaded spaces for people to gather, protected from sun and wind.

Natural analogues Nature in space Working with plants is therapeutic.

Real plants improves the air quality.

Plants may sharpen the attention.

Lowers levels of anxiety.

Relaxes the body and gives calming effect.

Golden Angle (137 degrees), curves and angles of 120 degrees and Fibonacci numerical sequences gives pleasure to the eyes when used in the interiors (because of the similar angles seen in nature)

Plant

Use of natural patterns of rock, vegetation etc. gives authentic feel and reduces diastolic pressure and increase creativity.

Nature of space It is recorded that 20-25% of the learning rate increases with its integration in educational institutes. Mimicking nature helps to remind oneself of the similar characters of a natural space. E.g: Jungle represents mystery, cave represents darkness.

Staircase Using biomorphic forms and patterns reduces stress because of the visual association with such forms in nature.

Mimicking the space as an ancient home can give revival to history, culture, ethics, art etc.

Examples The whirlpool-shaped Blue Planet aquarium by Danish studio 3XN has opened to the public in Copenhagen. The building comprises a series of curved wings, designed to mimic the shapes generated by swirling water, and is clad in shimmering aluminium shingles that are reminiscent of ﬁsh scales Kim Herforth Nielsen

Examples Jean Nouvel’s recently designed residential development, Aquarela, in Quito, Ecuador is under construction. In collaboration with local architectural developer Uribe & Schwarzkopf, the 136,580 sqm organically designed project blends with the surrounding mountainous landscape. Located in a “sector surrounded by green areas and large squares, strategically located and easily accessible, within the best residential area of the Cumbayá Valley”, Aquarela includes nine residential stone-cladded blocks. Ateliers Jean Nouvel imagined an approach that could mimic the context, with curved balconies wrapping the intervention, overﬁlled with greenery. These rocky gardens connect the residents to the natural outdoors and strengthen the integration of the building.

Ateliers Jean Nouvel

- Thank You -

Research ABW Spaces Hiba Omar Roshna Sadanandan Syeda Quratulain Tayyaba Javaid Zainab KhairulAmin

Contents ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

What is ABW? The Start of ABW Related Ideas of ABW Objective/Purpose of Implementation of ABW Advantages over the Disadvantages of ABW Challenges posed by ABW & their Resolutions Implementation of ABW in Design Zoning of ABW Spaces Spaces Types Success Factors of ABW Spaces in Design Example

Activity-based working (ABW) is a way of working in which employees make shared use of a diversity of work settings that have been designed to support different kinds of activities.

Crucial Elements of AWB: 1.

Diversity: This element provides employees with a diversity of settings in terms of openness, furniture, size, technology and atmosphere. For example, a variety of regular workstations, phone booths, quiet areas, break areas, lounges and project spaces.

Sharing: This element allows the use of spaces equally by all the users regardless of hierarchical organizations.

Way of working: The third element allows the employees to work and make more independent choices of collaboration.

In this picture we can see how the space is arranged for employees to chit, chat in a ﬂexible way.

3 Dimensions Spatial dimension: The building and the spaces it provides. For eg: diversity, free seating, availability, zoning etc.

Multiple seating options are available, making it ﬂexible

Digital dimension: The technologies that people need to be able to work Mobily. For eg: Collaboration apps, cloud solutions, mobile and technology etc.

Social dimension: The way staff and management work, manage and interact. For example: mutual trust, respect etc.

The first ABW office was made in 1970s when some product engineers moved their office and made a non-traditional type of office by having different seating and working arrangements and found out that the communication level got increased and their productivity also went high. In 1980s when laptops came in the concept of this kind of office emerged again and so many changes were made in offices. Today, the world is more receptive to the ABW concept.

The technology is portable now, which is why ABW is more relatable and do-able

Related Concepts Remote Working: Remote working is about working from places other than the ofﬁce, such as home, co-workspaces or public spaces like cafes. This is also very relevant in the current covid-19 situation.

Collaborative Space: Collaborative spaces allows the employees to exchange ideas, thoughts and experience. This requires having a somewhat open kind of ofﬁce area.

Co-working: Co-working ofﬁces are café hybrid spaces, a serviced ofﬁce and a community space where anyone can get access to the space with charge of monthly fee.

Smart offices: Smart offices use sensors and is like an e-service office where employees can use their phones to locate colleagues, find available workstations, book meeting rooms, adjust the lighting levels in a space, rate the quality of spaces Healthy offices: The term healthy offices is vast and maybe carried out in several ways to have a positive impact for mental and physical wellbeing. For example: acoustics, daylight access, air quality and thermal comfort etc.

The main objective of ABW is increasing the productivity and enhancing the performance of employees. Other purposes include: • To Improve employees experience by letting them mingle. • To reduce occupancy cost by better space utilization. • To reduce environmental footprint by accommodating same number of employees in smaller area, hence less resources are used. • To support cultural diversity. • To Improve health and well-being. • To increase the overall ﬂexibility.

According to a research, activity-based working increases individual productivity by 13% and team productivity by 8%

Advantages: • It gives sense of motivation • Provides mental well being. • More efﬁcient use of ofﬁce space. • More communication & knowledge exchange. • Better use of space & money. • Improved health and well-being.

Disadvantages: ●

It often lacks privacy.

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Hasn’t proven beneﬁcial for all types of jobs

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Might lead to distractions

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Proves better for younger ones

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Less mobile than expected

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Not suitable for all job types

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Hygiene problem specially in the current

• Boost in productivity & engagement. • Attracting & holding of talent.

covid 19 situation ●

The furniture type should be very ﬂexible for sharing.

Challenges posed by ABW Spaces & the Resolutions Noise & Distraction: Lack of privacy leading to decreased concentration. Solution: ● Plenty of quite/focus rooms and meeting areas to avoid conversations in open areas ● Zone out the plan according to different levels of liveliness and noises ● Spaces should allow optimum sound absorption and blocking where needed

Disconnectedness/Loneliness: In the absences of personal spaces, some employees might feel disconnected from their teams.

Territorial Behaviour: In certain cases, users tend to claim a space by leaving their personal items

Solution: ● Provide team zones where members can come together for discussion ● Leisurely spaces for teams to keep trophies and team’s snaps ● Sharing of schedule and rules for availability at certain times can help ● Having lunches together ● Provision of tools for easily sharing ﬁles etc.

Solution: ● The shared spaces should be of equal good quality ● Provide guidelines on how to use workspace ● Provide adjustable furniture and wireless technology ● Clear up a space of one’s essentials after every use

Available of spaces: The anxiety related to availability of spaces often make users leave early for ofﬁce. The following solutions can help in this case.

Paper & Other Things: In ABW spaces, there is often a concern when it comes to personal stuff and belongings.

Solution: ● Provide more spaces for shared spaces ● Overﬂow areas should be provided for instance, informal meeting spaces in café or restaurant ● Differentiate between bookable and non-bookable spaces ● Visual overﬂow to give a clear overview of available spaces

Solution: ● Digitalize workspaces to minimize the need for bringing personal belongings ● Clean the storage areas and cabinets frequently to make room for things ● Provide lockers for employees ● Team lockers for storing teams’ shared belongings.

Hygiene: The concern for workspace hygiene has increased due to the pandemic conditions. Solution: ● Planning for more cleaning rounds around the ofﬁce ● Provision of sanitizers and cleaning wipes ● Personal keyboards, mice and headsets for all the employees ● Booking of spaces for the entire day in case of social distancing ● Provision of sanitizers at entry, toilets, pantry etc.

Hassle of Moving: The need in ABW spaces to move around and change spaces during the day sometimes lead to inefﬁciencies. Solution: ● Provide same laptops and cables to all the employees to minimize the need to move around ● Wireless chargers to limit moving to the charging capacities ● Adjustable furniture to allow reorganizing of the space without needing to move to another one ● Focus rooms and phone booths must be placed close to open work areas

Ergonomics: People in working spaces have different heights and have different preferences. Hence the need of adjustable furniture and inclusive design should be considered. Solution: ● Provision of highly adjustable furniture ● Height of the monitors should be adjustable ● Users with special needs should be kept in mind while designing ● Smart furniture which allows storing of previously entered data, should be used.

Loss of Status: In ABW spaces, managers often suffer from status anxiety. This is because the employees cannot be observed directly. Solution: ● Involve the top management in all types of activities ● Make managers responsible for the change process ● Provide meeting rooms with visual privacy for managers

Resistance to Change: When designing ofﬁces based on ABW, there are chances that employees might be reluctant towards it. This is because they are not ready to lose the workspace that belongs to them. Solution: ● Listen to all the concerns that employees might have and provide suitable solutions for them ● Involve all the employees equally in the process ● Explain to them the “what”, “how” and “why” of ABW design ● If necessary, train them to have feasible operations later on.

Implementing ABW Spaces in Design 01

Provide Privacy Booths People need quiet and secluded places to work away from distractions

Plan Work Zones Plan the ofﬁce around different spaces designed for regular task rather than giving everyone individual desks

Provide Plenty of Power Points As digitalization comes over, people need enough electrical outlets.

Make the office welcoming It should be comfortable & inviting by having social areas, soft seating, places to relax along with traditional settings.

Zoning

Organizational

Free Range

Team Social Zones Zones Team Anchors

Activity

Interactive Zones Quiet Zones

Spatial

Segmented Un Work Segmented Areas Work Areas

Security

Free Range No assigned places for functions, people can decide best for themselves. Extremely ﬂexible but also scattered across the entire area.

Team Zones Spaces assigned for teams. Like a particular ﬂoor or a part of it.

Team Anchors Spaces that connect people like community spots. Doesn’t have a dedicated area, but spots where people will cross paths

Activity Zoning

Segmented Work Areas Open workspaces are divided into small pockets as workstations. They have focus & meeting rooms in between. Avoids the open-plan style with less visual overview.

Un-segmented Work Areas Largely open spaces with lot more visual overview.

Security Zoning A degree of security zoning for areas where teams are working on conﬁdential projects that shouldn’t be seen by other. A separated/speciﬁc area only access to a group of people.

Spaces Workspaces Designed more for desk-related work. Areas are differentiated based on the extent of closure.

Open Workstation

Semi-open Workstation

Focus Rooms

Study

Workstations placed at open spaces for collaborative work away from busy circulation areas.

Workstations placed at semi-open spaces with more acoustic and visual privacy.

Completely enclosed room that lets the user work away from the buzz.

Completely enclosed room for multiple workstations. Suitable for groups to work in private.

Phone Booth

Project Rooms

Closed or Closed room for semi-closed area for group meetings with users to go make a features like phone call or video whiteboards and call and requires meeting tables. privacy. Suitable for work that needs frequent consultation.

Spaces Collaboration Spaces Designed for anything that happens in collaboration; meetings, brainstorming sessions, one-one conversations etc.

Booth

Huddle

Semi-closed place for Open meeting space small meetings and that is more informal. individual work. Also acts a joining There is a sense of point for people to visual privacy with meet and share the high-backed discussions seating.

Stand-up Space Open or semi-open spaces for meetings that requires no seating arrangements. Suitable for work that needs to get done quickly.

Small Meeting Medium Large Meeting Room Meeting Room Room Enclosed room for small private meetings.

Conference rooms for meetings of larger groups.

For conference meeting for even larger groups that requires a level of privacy.

Spaces Support Spaces Designed for providing facilities like water, food, storage etc. Such spaces make users have social interactions within the place.

Kitchenette

Locker Space

Facility providing food and beverages to the users. Encourages social interaction as people run into each other.

Space for the users to store their personal belongings.

Storage (group/individ ual) Space for storage of documents or other things that either be group or individual.

Print/Copy Space

Lobby

Restaurant

Space having the machine to print, copy and scan.

Seating area for visitors at the entrance alongside the reception.

Facility for providing food to the users.

Success Factors of ABW Spaces

Provide Choice

No Quality Compromise

Focus on Focus Work

Create Excellent Acoustics

The ofﬁce should offer options and diversity so that the users are comfortable to work in their preferred way.

ABW Design is efﬁcient in space design, but that doesn’t mean go for cheap design solutions.

Providing small focus rooms for people who want to work in quiet and peace.

Highly ignored as it cannot be seen, but equally important.

Create Human Scale

Make People Feel at Home

Provide IT Perfection

Avoid Design Gimmicks

Usage of soft fabric and rugs for, plants and diversity in furniture to make people comfortable.

Have a better hand in everything technologically possible and available to the users.

Not overdoing the fun/casualness shown towards AWB Design.

Giving large areas a human scale by dividing it into small workstations.

ANZ Bank, HQ Melbourne ANZ adopted the style of ABW Design that it called “Playbox” project. The project had options for different furniture & technology in different departments. The 14 workspace designs are based on the 14 ways ANZ employees were found to work. The result was a boost in revenue by nearly $50 million. Decision making speed went from 4 days to 4 hours. Despite the large scale space, it is broken down into smaller areas. The urban campus idea of the ofﬁce revolves around a publicly accessible centra area, bringing the community into the heart of the organization.

Various type of seating is seen, spread across various ﬂoors. The company believed in the idea of ‘environments changing where people come to’ rather than the opposite.

Thank You

Case Study:

Amazon Spheres

Hiba Omar Roshna Sadanandan Syeda Quratulain Tayyaba Javaid Zainab KhairulAmin

Table of Contents’ 01

Basic Information

Exterior & Interior Analysis

Concept

Color Scheme

Programming & Zoning

Material Board

Plan Details

Pros & Cons

Basic Information

These three glass domes serve as an employee lounge and workspace. Designed in an ultramodern way, this ofﬁce building is designed for the employees where they can think and work differently while being surrounded by plants. Location: Seattle, United States Year of Completion: 2018 Architect: NBBJ Architects Area: 67000 msq. Design Elements: Pentagonal Modules are in the structure. While the interiors show elements like curves and circulars. Design Principles: Symbolism, Repetition, Balance & Symmetry

Concept

“Combining Mathematics With Organic & Realistic With Poetic.” ●

The main concept behind the spheres was a link to nature.

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The space designed is beneﬁcial for both plants & people and is termed as “closed forest”. Lighting is adjusted as to nurture the plants with no glare and allow the public to see the space from outside.

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The dome also stands as a symbol, emphasizing the Amazon’s inﬂuence on Seattle.

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They created from repeating geometric modules, inspired from the work of Belgian Mathematician Eugene Charles Catalan and Archimedes. These geometric components ﬁt together like a puzzle.

Programming & Zoning

Bubble Diagram STRONG

Open Office

MEDIUM

Private Area

WEAK

Cafeteria Retail W.C Semi Private Seating Area

Circulation

Zoning Retail Area

W.C. Private Seating Area

Cafeteria Semi Private Seating Area

W.C.

LEVEL 1

LEVEL 2

LEVEL 3

LEVEL 4

Plan Details

Exterior & Interior Analysis

Façade Fig2. Three domed-like spheres with steel and glass structure.

About the ‘Spheres’ Shape of Glass Panels The facade's geometric pattern is derived from a shape found in nature, known as a Catalan solid. Pentagonal hexecontahedron forms the Amazon Spheres.

The spheres are made up of about 2,600 angular glass panels that have a coating designed to let in light for plant photosynthesis and reﬂect unnecessary heat back into the environment. Fig1. The steel frame holds the glass panels in-between.

Biophilic Design

A wooden bridge takes to the “bird’s nest” that sits above a seating area. This provides a treehouse-like environment. The dynamic pattern of the sphere itself with the interior makes the environment lively and fresh.

The Bird’s Nest

Seating area surrounded by multiple types of plants shows that the concept of working is non-traditional.

Biophilic design where 200 species of different plants are hung on the walls. Direct presence of plants is observed.

The interior is full of nature, the picture shows rocky wall with water fall. The sound of waterfall, scents of natural ﬂowers and changes in temperature within the sphere can be sensed.

Lighting

Round spherical lights along with diagonal patterned cove lights are used. Moreover, the biggest source of light is the natural light from all over the spherical shape.

Use of Lines

Although the major lines that are used are curved yet diagonal/ pointed lines are also seen. Hence, there is a striking contrast in the use of lines.

The coffee stand desk is circular, yet the lighting pattern seems to have diagonal lines.

Flexible Seating

The pictures shows a variety of seating options depending on the type of work & mood (ABW environment).

Hidden sensors and ventilation devices are ﬁxed to maintain the right environment for the plants.

Lighting & Ventilation for Plants

The plants are provided with LED array whose light spectrum can create a purple cast needed for the plants.

Lights that line the steel framework in the Spheres are aimed toward plants—not humans to beneﬁt the plants and not disturb people with its glare.

Color Scheme

The ‘Spheres’ consists of monochromatic color schemes of both grey and brown colors and forest green indicating their relation with nature.

The highlight is definitely the 2,000 varieties of carefully chosen flora. Extensive use of glass panes, steel and white mullion for the exterior sphere The interior has long steel columns supporting elements. Wooden panels were used for the bouncy bridge, the ‘bird’s nest’ seating arrangement and curvy seatings. Vinyl flooring is used in majority of the interior space and outdoor area has grass flooring.

Material Board

Pros & Cons

Pros • • • • •

A closer connection with the lost nature can be experienced. The non-traditional environment helps the employees to interact in a most effective way. The inclusion of nature helps to keep the environment lively and lets the employees to stay productive throughout the time. The glass panels are good source of natural lighting in the space. Inclusion of natural plants means that the air quality is good.

Cons • • • • • •

Some sort of traditional working space should also be included. Having natural plants inside a space needs maintenance. The inclusion of nature might lead to distraction of work. The non-traditional type of working proves better for younger ones. The humidity levels are lowered during the day, a lot of pressure is put on HVAC and ventilation system due to that. To get rid of pests like aphids, some selective insects must be introduced which requires intensive care and maintenance.

Thank You

CONTENTS About flag Population Demographics Geography Climate and environmental issues Weather

language Religion Customs Food Lifestyle Art

Fashion Colors Festivals

Traditional architecture Modern architecture interior Sustainability factors

General Information

GENERAL Information Japan is a string of island in East Asia. It consists of 4 main islands and nearly 4000 smaller islands. Japan is known worldwide for its technology, traditional arts, tea ceremonies, calligraphy, origami, anime, manga, cherry blossoms, and flower arrangements and much more.

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Japanese

language is pronounced as

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means

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Which

literally

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The flag of Japan is called “ ” which means “ ”. It is represented by a red circle (sun) in the center of a white flag.

Tokyo is the capital and the biggest city in Japan in terms of population and area. It mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers to historic temples.

It is the largest industrial, commercial, and financial Centre in Japan.

Many domestic and international financial institutions and other businesses are headquartered in central Tokyo.

Tokyo is the chief transportation hub for Japan.

It is a major . That means that many of the people in the city at any one time don't actually live in the city itself; they commute in each day for work. every day, approximately 2,400,000 (2.4 million) people commute into Tokyo.

The figures indicates the Percentage of workers who live in neighboring prefectures and commute into Tokyo.

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Tokyo is the most densely populated prefecture in Japan.

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1/4th (26%) of Japan's Population Live in Tokyo even though the land upon which Tokyo stands only accounts for 0.6 percent of Japan's total land area.

Fig: Shibuya Crossing-it is the worlds busiest pedestrian crossing

More than 20 percent of Japan’s population is over 65 years old, the highest proportion in the world. The average retirement age in Japan is 65-70.

Geographically, Tokyo is often divided into Shitamachi, the lowlands of the east side of the city, and Yamanote, the highlands to the west.

Yamanote refers to the affluent, upper-class areas of Tokyo, west of the Imperial Palace.

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Dome

Tokyo city view

Shitamachi (downtown) used to be considered as the area where the lower-classes lived. But it has been booming since 2012 when the iconic Tokyo Sky tree was opened

Imperial Palace

Tokyo skytree seen from shin Nakamise shopping street

Sky-Tree

famous “Asakusa” is also located there so it has become the most attractive part of Tokyo. & it’s one of the few ways to experience traditional Japanese culture in all of Tokyo.

Asakusa

Omodie yokocho street

Asakusa

As with most industrialized cities, the growth of businesses and administrative offices in Tokyo over recent years has had an impact on the environment with the disappearance of many green spaces. Even though Tokyo has approximately 50% of greenery. It is majorly in its village areas. The metropolis of Tokyo has only 7.5% of green public spaces.

Japan is a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is an area where number of earthquakes and volcanoes occur. Several tectonic plates are in contact with each other here. About 90% of the world's earthquakes occur along this line.

And the worst earthquake zone in the country is Tokyo

building in Tokyo cost extra 50 percent to construct & they tend to be shorter than skyscrapers in other economic capitals. In the last few years Tokyo received way more damage form the typhoons than it does from the quakes.

Tokyo gets to experience all the four seasons. Winters are very cold and dry, it rarely snows.

Spring is the loveliest of all

Summers are very hot , muggy and humid.

spring is lovely and colorful in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most beautiful places to see autumn foliage

Rain in Tokyo is abundant

Sociocultural Factors

The most widely spoken language in Japan is “Nihongo” which is separated into several dialects with Tokyo dialect considered standard Japanese.

Early Japanese culture was heavily influenced by China. During the Edo era, Japan exercised a strict isolationist policy, closing its doors to all relationships with the outside world. This cultivated a distinct Japanese culture. Over the years, Western culture has influenced all aspects of Japanese culture including art, lifestyle and food. Japanese culture is a mix of old and new beliefs, traditions, and customs. There is an art, reason, and historical purpose to explain how things are conducted in families and society making Japanese culture unique.

Shinto and in Buddhism are the two main faiths which Japanese people often practice simultaneously. Shintoism involves the belief that every living thing found in nature contains gods, or kami. Buddhism is more concerned with the soul and the afterlife. Christianity is also practiced by a small population.

The most important Japanese cultural and social values revolve around working together and living in peace. Some of the biggest Japanese values are: Bowing in Japan (お辞儀, Ojigi) is the act of lowering one's head or the upper part of the torso, commonly used as a sign of salutation, reverence, apology or gratitude in social or religious situations Japan’s service industry sets the global standard for excellent service. Japan and especially in Tokyo being so busy and occupied all the time people set high bars when it comes to time management and reaching on a specific time ! humbleness is built into the culture, language and customs of Japan.

it is not common practice to walk and eat in public and considered bad manners. unless you have a casual relationship (such as between friends or with a child), adhere to appropriate formal titles by using san or sama after a person's last name. the opportunity to live in the community and be valued for one's uniqueness and abilities, like everyone else. Disabled people of the community are not excluded from the activities of daily life and have the facilities to help live a normal life. Japanese are one of the worlds most hardworking people. They are very loyal and responsible working people. They are always dedicated to improve them selves. Japanese people tend to value their ties to community over individuality. Self sacrifice for the team in highly respected , self serving tactics is despised.

In Japanese society, a meal goes beyond the food and eating it because through a meal people can socialize, build stronger bonds, cooperate, work in teams and help society to develop. It is also a way to thank gods in rituals. Traditional food in modern society is very important to keep the culture. Japanese cuisine respects and responds to nature by having their diet based on each season of the year. The Japanese attach as much importance to the aesthetic arrangement of the food as its actual taste.

The traditional cuisine of Japan is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes.

Side dishes often consist of fish, pickled vegetables, and vegetables cooked in broth. Seafood is common, often grilled, but also served raw in some dishes. Japan also has many simmered dishes.

Life in Japan, specially in the bustling city of Tokyo is very busy and tiring. Mostly people have office jobs, people Management is hierarchical and the work ethic strict, with overtime assumed. In fact, leaving on time suggests a lack of commitment or loyalty. Nevertheless, they are highly paid for it. Shinjuku City came from the Japanese People lifestyle. After the long working hours they go to such places to relief their stress. It has Upscale hotel bars and restaurants, buzzing clubs and karaoke rooms Galleries, theaters, and bookstores

As Tokyo is one of the populated cities, the rents are very high. And therefore the people are forced to live in tiny accommodations. Due to this people invite each other to restaurants on any occasion or for a dinner party instead of their houses.

Preferred mode of transportation for residents is train. City buses are rarely used within large cities like Tokyo, Japan’s transportation sector stands out for its energy efficiency ,excellent rail and metro network .it is modern and highly developed, it is characterized by its punctuality, its superb service, and the large crowds of people using it. Owning a car in Japan is expensive and you need to own a parking space to buy one. Use of bicycles is also very common and there are separate parking areas for them.

CV CV

Japan, one of the world’s most literate and technically advanced nations. the Japanese incorporate technology into their everyday lives. japan has one of the world's highest vending machine densities. Machines can be found all over cities, towns and even in the countryside and sell a lot of items including shoes , bag , books etc.About half of the world's robot are made and used in Japan to provide useful services and entertainment for people and to provide companionship for them

There are multiple clothing styles in Tokyo. The traditional Japanese dress is called kimono. The colors of the kimonos are usually based on seasons, gender or sometimes on political and family ties. It is still worn on special occasions. Other than traditional style there a few more clothing styles popular in Japan.

Japan is a country steeped in tradition and they use the beautiful language of colors in their art, dresses, phrases and rituals. Even though western influences have changed several associations of colors, especially in art and dresses, some of the traditional color meanings are still valid today There are many colors which are considered as ‘auspicious or lucky’ by the Japanese people. Certain colors are very weddings and other rituals.

important

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Red represent happiness and joy. People also wear these colors at important ceremonies such as weddings, birthdays and other life events. It is also a religiously important color. Blue is also one of the most important lucky colors in Japan. It is a popular color in Japanese clothing. Many office workers wear different shades of blue whereas University students wear ‘recruitment suits in blue’ for job interviews. Green color in Japan represents youth, eternity, vitality and energy.. Black is a popular color in Japan for electronics and clothing. It mainly denotes non-being, mystery, night and anger.Black also denotes evil-hearted person. Gold is used extensively in decoration and symbolizes wealth and prestige. Silver is used in tools and weapons and represents precision, masculinity and high tech strength yellow color denotes sunshine and nature in Japan. As in the west, purple stands for royalty in Japanese culture as well. Purple flowers are very popular too. Orange denotes love and happiness and is a popular color in clothing.This vibrant color also denotes civilization and knowledge. white are prominent traditional colors in Japan. Both colors are used in decorations at

Being the capital of Japan and to have some of the most important and oldest temples and shrines it’s normal for Tokyo to have some of the biggest festivals.

is one of the three great Shinto festivals of Tokyo along with the Fukagawa Matsuri and Sanno Matsuri held at the Tokyo’s oldest Kanda shrine.it is held in odd-numbered years.

is an annual fireworks festival held on the last Saturday in July, over the Sumidagawa near Asakusa. is to pray for economic prosperity, safety in construction work, and protection against misfortune and natural disasters. this important festival that comes from a ceremony held by Buddhist mountain priests upon reaching the peak of the mountain.

Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival

Sunrise Festival

Lion Festival

Flower festivals have become annual Japanese traditions, full not only of beautiful flowers but also performances, food, and good company. Tokyo, the center of modern Japanese culture, is home to a number of flower festivals.

Bunkyo Azalea Festival

Fuji Shiba-sakura matsuri.

Sakura Tulip Festival.

Cherry Blossom Festival

In the Japanese belief system, all humans originally came from water, so the lanterns visually represent the spirits’ return to the elements. Families come together to guide the spirits down to the sea using traditional candle-lit lanterns (toro).

Kawaii- Japan Anime

is hand drawn/ computer animation originating from or associated with Japan. Japan’s anime is characterized by colorful graphics, vibrant characters and fantastical themes.

is a country with many contradictions, one of these being the strict and formal work culture vs the pink and frilly kawaii culture. Kawaii is a way for people to escape the stress and extreme pressure from work and school and to express themselves in fashion, art and lifestyle.

Dedicated to studio Ghibli, the world’s famous animation the museum showcases the art and works of Studio Ghibli animations including temporary exhibitions, cafe, museum shop, play room and garden.

Nihonga of the old Japanese painting practice. It is based on traditions over a thousand years old and the paintings are usually executed on was paintings are one of the main products hi (Japanese paper) or eginu (silk), using brushes. The Great Wave off Kanagawa is probably the most recognizable Japanese painting ever made.

ō Sumo wrestling was born as a Shinto ritual to entertain gods and now has become a sport

is counted as one of the three classical Japanese arts of refinement,

is a Japanese cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha arts of refinement,

Architecture And Interior

Traditional Japanese building mainly consists of places of worships ,temples and houses.

It is Tokyo’s oldest temple,it was founded in 7th century and has been serving as a symbol of the district for many centuries.

Temple in Tokyo, where numerous statues of cat are placed. The cat statue is called Manekineko (the beckoning cat) and it’s a popular lucky charm in Japan which people believe to bring a luck to its owner.

The temple was originally built in 1828.The temple is known for home to countless statues of foxes which creates very mysterious and unique atmosphere.

standing next to Tokyo Tower, the temple grounds consist of some impressive structures as well as a mausoleum of the Tokugawa family and a small museum in the basement of the temple main hall.

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The Japanese loved education and spreading knowledge and so Kyozo was built in 1613. This Japanese- storehouse has octagonal-shaped revolving bookshelves at its center. It has been designated as cultural property by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

A torii is a traditional Japanese gate most commonly found at the entrance of or within a Shinto Shrine, where it symbolically marks the transition from the mundane to the sacred

Koshoden

Koshoden has been completed as a lecture hall and seminary for “cleansing soul and fostering the vigor to live” with the advent of the 21st century. The coffered ceiling of the large hall features pictures of flowering plants, donated by 120 pious Japanese artists and fitted into coffers

Ankokuden Enshrined in this worship hall is the Black Image of Amida Buddha. The hall has been made so luxuriously to honor the god because he is considered to be praised and kept in holy place so this place has been highly ornamented .

It is a broadcasting and observation tower in Tokyo.It became the tallest structure in Japan in 2010 .

The Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower in Tokyo, At 332.9 meters it is the second-tallest structure in Japan.

It was the world's first example of capsule architecture built for permanent and practical use. The building still exists but has fallen into disrepair. It is a rare remaining example of Japanese metabolism. The building is composed of two interconnected concrete towers, Each capsule is connected and cantilevered to one of the two main shafts independently and so that any capsule could be removed easily without affecting the others

Unlike a traditional, horizontally laid out school, the designed a high-rise vertical campus. The building’s innovative shape and cutting edge façade embodies a unique “Cocoon” concept. Embraced within this incubating form, students are inspired to create, grow and transform.

Built in year 1961 is an indoor arena located in a, Tokyo, which is famous for its suspension roof design.

Because the local climate is moist ,roofs had to have a steeper incline to help quicken the flow of rainwater. They also were mostly tiled. In Japan, red is a symbol of fire and the sun, which is also considered as the color of life, which has a function to reject evil spirits, danger, and bad luck. It is believed that the red torii in front of a shrine wards off evil spirits, danger, and bad luck.

Wooden structures elevated slightly off the ground. this type of building was apparently used to store grain and other foods so that they wouldn't spoil from heat and humidity. The abundance of forests made wood a natural choice for building material in this country since ancient times. Timber is well-suited to the moist and warm climate of Japan and can withstand the cold as wellkeeping its inhabitants warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

An engawa is an outer corridor that wraps around a Japanese house.

Are the panels found above shoji or fusuma that are designed to let light into rooms. They are often ornate wooden carvings or shoji screens. The ceilings are often coffered or made of wooden strips.

They are folding screens, often decorated with art that are used to partition rooms for privacy. They were one of the Japan's first successful exports to Europe when the country open to the world in the 1860s.Byobu were historically considered essential furniture because Japanese homes weren't designed for privacy. In modern times they have fallen out of common use but are collected as art.

It is traditional window coverings that are made with horizontal strings of wood, bamboo or other natural materials. They are often crafted using old techniques and may have iron hooks that seem oversized by today's standards.

A genkan is the main entrance to a house that has a lower level floor where you remove your shoes. This area is considered extremely dirty. People leave their shoes facing towards the door and take care not to step in the lower part of the floor in their socks. Wearing shoes into a home in Japan is considered a shocking breach of manners that's akin to splitting on the floor.

A Tokonoma is a slightly elevated area against a wall in a room intended to receive guests. It's a spot to put art such as a, shodo(a Japanese Calligraphy ) or ikebana (Japanese art of flower arrangement ).It is related to several rules of manners and etiquette.it is considered extremely bad f to stand or sit in the tokonoma. A respected guest is seated close to the tokonoma with their back to it.

shodo

ikebana

shoji Tokonoma

shoji is a sliding panel that is made of translucent paper in a wooden frame they are used both for interior and exterior walls they help to give Japanese houses their character by allowing diffuse light and shadow through.

They are tables with short legs that are used while sitting on the floor. They are most typically used on tatami floors. It's common for families to eat at a chabudai while sitting on zabuton.

Chabudai

Zabuton

Zabuton are thin pillows that are used to sit on tatami floors. They are essentially the equivalent of a chair. .

fusums

Tatami

Tatami are mat floors traditionally made of rice straw. They are a standard size that varies by region.. They represent a traditional lifestyle that involves sitting and sleeping on the floor. They have a soft, natural feel on your feet and have a pleasant smell when they're new. tatami is the ideal infill insulator. Made to hold heat and in thin boards and they save the environment from mountains of abandoned polystyrene.

are sliding panels that act as doors and walls to give Japanese homes many possibilities as rooms can be dynamically configured

Modern architecture blends the traditional Japanese aesthetics of simplicity and purity with modernist values by creating a calming space, made from natural materials, filled with natural light, and incorporating a minimalist aesthetic.

They also now blend in their likes and different themes from current Japanese culture in their interiors. Unlike their traditional interiors the use of colorful pallets can be seen..

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Recycling of almost all non-recyclable material to incinerated ash that is recycled as a raw material for eco-cement.

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A mandatory rating and disclosure program of environmental performance for large buildings in Tokyo

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Using of timber wood, which is a renewable resource.

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Yakisugi is the old technique of charring the surface of cedar.The process improves the durability by making it both fire and insect resistant as well as providing a traditional appearance

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Shikkui lime plaster has a history dating back over a thousand years in Japan and uses only natural ingredients. This can last for up to 20 years and requires only three ingredients, at the end of its lifecycle, it returns entirely to nature.

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Use of day lighting and openings for natural ventilation in the buildings.using solar panels to provide maximum energy to the building

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Use of different wood joineries that’s strong and durable and doesn’t require glue.

o Tokyo is very populated which makes the lifestyle of citizens a bit different from other Japanese cities. o It mixes ultra modern with traditional. o earthquakes and typhoons are major environmental issues. o The life in Tokyo is very busy and people are workaholic. They have activities for relief like anime, gaming and old traditional activities like flower arranging, tea ceremonies, etc. o People and follow there customs and traditions religiously. And so alot of major festivals are held in Tokyo. o The new architecture also has a lot of colors as opposed to the traditional. o In traditional interiors Apart from wood and stone, it also features ceramics, cast iron objects, and concrete surfaces. Light or muted colors, bright white walls, large windows, uncluttered spaces, and an abundance of plants to create a serene and airy atmosphere.

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