Building Systems - A Whole New Meaning
As comprehensive has been on our minds the last few weeks and the frustrations that have come about because of structural and HVAC integration complications, an idea that was presented in class caught my attention. Instead of looking at HVAC as a system an add-on that just cools and heats the air or just another system, why not look at it and understand it as a cycle of continuous evolution and change? Just as an ecosystem evolves through the seasons of hot and cold, systems like HVAC also work in the same way. We treat HVAC as a dependent system that is tacked on at the end of a design vs. integrating it into the evolution of the design process so that it is well thought out and mates well with your overall design. This could simply be strategic ways to place it in the building in conjunction with structure and space; it could be implementing natural ventilation and sources of heating and air through passive systems, or it could be designed with the intent to celebrate the system by exposing it. This raises the question of how can we design to celebrate the evolution and changes of air in a space or environment that supplements the overall design intent? I believe it first starts with understanding the systems and what they provide, but also understanding how we can implement strategies that reduce the need for large HVAC systems that become an add-on vs. working in conjunction with a design. It could also involve working alongside mechanical engineers to better involve systems as well. This will be a process that takes time and real design efforts, but if done well, could be a thoughtful and intuitive design to create change as architecture evolves and systems evolve.
Hey Nicole!
ReplyDeleteI also ponder with that same notion as to why must we consider HVAC systems as a separate entity and not incorporated within in our design. I always took the approach of sticking everything in a basement not allowing everything on the roof, but with our comprehensive project, that was not an option. But that was a good thing best it challenges us to think about how to programs our spaces and consider how these systems don't that to be tucked away but incorporated though the whole design.
I think architects tend to shy away from showcasing systems like mechanical simply because they don't understand them well enough. It's not our role as an architect to be an expert by any means on the subject of mechanical. It is however, our role to be able to negotiate with the mechanical specialist what we envision the integration of the mechanical with the building design to be and understand enough about the system to be able to defend a design solution.
ReplyDeleteNicole, when I think of buildings that showcase and celebrate the evolution of mechanical systems I think of Renzo Piano's Paris project, the Centre Pompidou. It celebrates mechanical systems by making them visible and exposed, using color-coded elements, incorporating interactive elements, and providing educational opportunities for visitors to learn about their function. The design approach celebrates the beauty and functionality of mechanical systems, making them an integral part of the building's overall aesthetic and experience.
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