SILVESTER RETTOB
20308044
2TB01
1. ARSITEKTONIK
Tektonika berkaitan erat dengan material struktur, dan konstruksi, namun tektonika lebih menekankan pada aspek estetika yang dihasilkan oleh suatu sistem struktur atau ekspresi dari suatu konstruksi dari pada aspek teknologinya.
Penggunaan istilah tektonika sendiri sudah dikenal sejak lama dan telah mengalami perkembangan.
Tektonika berasal dari kata tekton dan sering ditulis dengan kata tektonamai yang dalam bahasa yunani secara harafiah berartipertukangan kayu atau pembangun. Dalam bahasa sansakerta dapat disamakan dengan kata taksan yang berarti seni pertukangan kayu yang menggunakan kapak,
Puisi vedic juga mengartikan tektonik dalam arti yang sama, yaitu pertukangan kayu, kemudian homer mengartikan istilah ini sebagai seni konstruksi secara umum.
Adolf Heinrich Borbein juga mengungkapkan hal yang sama tentang tektonika, pada studi phiologinya (1982) dia mengatakan bahwa tektonika menjadi seni dari pertemuan atau sambungan, seni dalam hal ini ditekankan pada tekne, sehingga tektonika bukan hanya bagian dari bangunan tetapi dalam arti yang lebih sempit juga berarti sebagai objek atau karya seni.
Seiring perjalanan waktu, pengertian kata tektonik dalam konstruksi lebih mengarah kepada halpembuatan karya seni, tergantung benar salahnya penerapannya dalam kegunaan pada nilai seni tersebut.
Penggunaan istilah tektonika secara arsitektural muncul di jerman dalam buku karya Karl Otfried Muller yang berjudul ”Handbuch der Archeologie der kunst” / ”Handbook of the Archeology of Art” 1830.
Dia mengartikan tektonik sebagai penggunaan sederet bentuk seni pada peralatan, bejana bunga, pemukiman, dan tempat pertemuan, yang dibentuk dan dikembangkan di satu sisi pada penerapanya dan di sisi lain untuk menguatkan ekspresi perasaan dan pengertian atau buah pikiran seni.
Tektonika pada arsitektur sering kali dilakuakan karena ingin memberikan penekanan pentingnya suatu bagian bangunan tertentu dari bangunan dan keinginan memberiakan suatu ekspresi yang mendalam kepada bangunan.
Karl Botticher Pada bukunya ”The Tectonic Of Helen” memposisikan kata tektonik sebagai pemberi arti pada sistem ikatan yang lengkap dari semua bagian kiul yunani menjadi keseluruhan yang utuh, termasuk rangka dari sculpture dalam segala bentuk.
Sedangkan Semper mengelompokan tektonika pada bangunan menjadi dua prosedur yang mendasar, yaitu :
• Tektonika dari rangka ringan yang terdiri dari komponen-komponen linier yang dikelompokkan menjadi matriks spasial
• Steorotomik bagian dasar dimana massa dan volume terbentuk dari elemen-elemen berat.
Eduard Sekter dalam “Structure Constriction and tectonics” mendefinisikan bentuk tektonik sebagai ekspresi yang ditimbulkan oleh penekanan struktur dari bentuk konstruksi, dengan demikian hasil ekspresi tektonika tidak dapat diperhitungkan hanya sebagai istilah pada struktur dan konstruksi saja.
Arsitektonika, Struktur Konstruksi, dan Perancangan Arsitektur
Tektonika berperan dalam mengabungkan kesenjangan antara struktur dan konstruksi dengan perancangan dalam arsitektur, tektonika membedakan struktur dan konstruksi menjadi dua bagian, yaitu :
1. Struktur hanya dipakai untuk keperluan mewujudkan rancnagan sebuah bangunan. Elemen-elemen struktur hanay sebagai elemen penerus beban,sedang karakteristik struktur tidak ikut memberikan nilai arsitekturalnya.
2. Struktur terintegrasi dengan fungsi dan bentuk bangunan, dengan demikian elemen-elemen struktur sekaligus adalah elemen-elemen arsitektural yang ikut memberikan nilai arsitekturalnya.
Arsitektonik lebih menitikberatkan pada poin yang ke dua, yaitu kemampuan menemukan bentuk-bentuk yang menarik dari elemen-elemen struktur untuk diterapkan dalam perancangan arsitektur yang mungkin akan memacu semangat akan pemahaman struktur secara mendalam.
Struktur dan Konstruksi memang merupakan aspek teknis namun disisi lain juga merupakan aspek simbolik yang representatif. Suatu karya arsitektur dapat berdiri karena terdapat pertimbangan struktur dan konstruksi didalamnya, namun tetap dalam kapasitasnya sebagai sebuah karya arsitektur, yang tetap menitik beratkan pada pengolahan-pengolahan bentuk dan elemen dari sistem struktur yang diterapkan.
Dalam hal ini arsitektonik berperan memberi artikulasi pada mekanisme penyaluran beban dan elemen-elemen struktur, mengolah bentuk secara inovatif hingga menghasilkan potensi bentuk arsitektural secara keseluryhan maupun sambungan detail-detail konstruksi yang digunakan. Bentuk-bentuk yang digunakan hendaknya mempunyai nilai filosofi dalam seni bangunan, bukan sekedar detail-detail figuratif yang abstrak.
Tektonika bisa dimulai dari pemilihan struktur bangunan sesuai fungsinya.
Contoh :
• Bangunan candi dibuat dengan struktur yang massif, berat, dan tertutup. Hal ini sesuai dengan fungsinya sebagai tempat ibadah yang sakral dan magis, serta aberorientasi kedalam.
• Struktur pendopo pada rumah dat jawa yang terkesan ringan dan terbuka, hal ini menyangkut fungsinya sebagai tempat menerima tamu dan ditunjang dengan budaya masyarakat jawa yang terbuka kepada siapa saja yang datang.
• Bangunan ibadah yang ada yaitu gothic pada gereja, dan kubah pada mesjid
Tektonika tak berhenti pada sistem struktur saja, tetapi berlanjut kedalam elemen konstruksi seperti kolom-kolom, dinding-dinding, balok-balok, detail-detail sambungan.
Untuk menggabungkan bentu-bentuk arsitektur dan tektonika disbutuhkan suatu pengetahuan dan kepekaan terhadap desain dan material-material yang ada. Pencitraan masing-masing material harus benar-benar dipahami.
Berarsitektonik bukan sesuatu hal yang dapat dipelajari secara teoritis, tetapi diperlikan latihan-latihan dan uji coba.Pada tahap lanjut, diperlukan suatu pemikiran yang holistik(terpadu) antara perinsip-perinsip perancangan, konsep struktur, pengetahuan iklim sosial dan budaya, dll. Yang menunjang ide desain arsitektural secara utuh.
Sumber :
www.puslit2.petra.ac.id
www.eprints.undip.ac.id
www.digilib.its.ac.id
ARSITEKTONIK
Architectonic berasal dari bahasa yunani arkhitektonikos adalah (Arsitektur) seni dan ilmu merancang bangunan dan struktur fisik lainnya.
Arsitektur adalah baik proses dan produk perencanaan, merancang dan membangun ruang yang mencerminkan fungsional, sosial, dan pertimbangan estetika. Ini memerlukan manipulasi dan koordinasi dari bahan, teknologi, cahaya, dan bayangan. Arsitektur juga mencakup aspek-aspek pragmatis menyadari dirancang ruang, seperti perencanaan proyek, dan konstruksi memperkirakan biaya administrasi. Sebuah definisi yang lebih luas dapat meliputi semua kegiatan desain dari tingkat makro (desain perkotaan, arsitektur lansekap) ke level mikro (detail konstruksi dan furnitur). Pada kenyataannya, arsitektur saat ini dapat merujuk kepada aktivitas merancang sistem apapun dan sering digunakan dalam dunia TI.
Karya arsitektur sering dianggap sebagai simbol politik dan budaya dan sebagai karya seni. Sejarah peradaban sering diidentikkan dengan arsitektur yang masih hidup prestasi mereka.
Rencana arsitek, desain dan meninjau pembangunan gedung dan struktur untuk penggunaan orang-orang yang oleh organisasi kreatif bahan dan komponen dengan pertimbangan kepada massa, ruang, bentuk, volume, tekstur, struktur, cahaya, bayangan, materi, program, dan pragmatis unsur-unsur seperti biaya, keterbatasan konstruksi dan teknologi, untuk mencapai suatu tujuan yang biasanya fungsional, ekonomis, praktis dan sering artistik. Inilah yang membedakan dari teknik desain arsitektur, yang memiliki sebagai objek utama manipulasi kreatif bahan dan bentuk menggunakan matematika dan prinsip-prinsip ilmiah. Sebagai dokumentasi yang dihasilkan oleh arsitek, biasanya gambar, rencana dan spesifikasi teknik, arsitektur mendefinisikan struktur dan / atau perilaku dari sebuah bangunan atau jenis lain sistem yang akan atau telah dibangun.
ARCHI-TECTONICS
Firm History
Winka Dubbeldam is the principal of Archi-Tectonics NY, founded in 1994 and
[2008]. Archi-Tectonics has been featured in a multiplicity of International professional
journals and in the two monographs “Winka Dubbeldam Architect” by 010
publishers [1996], and “AT-INdex” [2007] by Princeton Press, NY.
Solo Exhibits include: “Con-Texture” in the Form Zero Gallery in Los Angeles [1994]
which then moved to the Kunsthalle in Rotterdam [1996] and to the Dessa Gallery in
Lljublana [1996]. “From Hardware to Softform” in the Frederieke Taylor Gallery NYC
[2002] was built with the MIT Media Lab, and then moved to the Art and Idea
Gallery in Mexico-City [2004]. In addition Archi-Tectonics has participated in the
following group exhibitions; the PAN exhibit [2006] in the Taylor Gallery, NYC,
MOCA’s “Skin and Bones”, Los Angeles [2006 - 2007], The London Biennale [2006],
the Venice Biennale [2004], “A New World Trade Center” in Max Protetch Gallery,
included our interactive installation ”Flex City”, also featured at the Venice Biennale
[2002]. Archi-Lab Orleans, France [2000 & 2001], and the Museum of Modern Art
exhibitions “Young Architects” [2001] and the “UnPrivate House” exhibit [1999].
including the recent Staten Island Sustainable Housing Competition [winner] and
the Houthaven Competition in Amsterdam. Among others, Dubbeldam received
the “Emerging Voice” award from the Architectural League NYC in 2001 and was
nominated as “The Best and Brightest” by Esquire Magazine, Dec 2004. In 2006
Archi-Tectonics received the IIDA / Metropolis “Smart Environment Award”.
Philosophy and Design Concepts
laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic,
research with construction. The team spirit expresses itself in an aim to re-think, reinvestigate
and re-interpret all project details. We analyze and research programthe
use of hybrid materials and smart building systems. We emphasize communication
and input with our clients to enrich the project, and have a team of acknowledged
consultants and engineers to provide full expertise. The use of digital project
but even more; construct surprising and innovative structures.
amenities. In this way the wall provides not only all program requirements but also
void.
“Abstract and skeletal, Dubbeldam’s folds imbue this salon with an unmistakable
elegance and sophistication while maintaining an equal measure of tectonic clarity,
aesthetic economy, and purpose” writes Henry Urbach in Interior Design [Feb. 2001]
V33 residential condominium
(www.33vestry.com): Currently under construction,
this 33,000 SF multi-unit building is located in the Tribeca-Mixed Use special
zoning district and the Landmark Tribeca Historic District. Archi-Tectonics obtained
a certificate of appropriateness for new construction from the Landmarks Preservation
Commission, who has used the project as an exemplary example of an appropriate
modern building in historic context. Archi-Tectonics also helped obtain a
variance from the Board of Standards and Appeals for a change to residential use
for this site. Archi-Tectonics designed the building and all construction details,
and the full interiors, uniquely for each unit, geared towards the high-end residential
market. The building has parking in the cellar that is accessed from the street via
an automobile elevator.
Houthaven Pier, Amsterdam: Archi-Tectonics’ was one of three firms to be invited
in 2006 to compete for the design a mixed-use pier development containing 250
housing units and 10,000 square meters of commercial space. A three-dimensional
branching strategy is utilized to cultivate a ‘mini-neighborhood’ rather than a
monolithic ‘mega-building.’ This project is detailed on the following pages in this
section.
Green Design – “A state of mind”
Archi-Tectonics’ research focuses on achieving efficiencies that express themselves
in optimal modulations, which are also expressed in energy-efficiency and
sustainability. Archi-Tectonics has recently received the Smart Environment Award
from the IIDA & Metropolis for the GW//8B loft in the Greenwich Building. We
designed both the building and the loft. The Greenwich building features a highly
insulated glass skin, passive solar energy, and renewable building materials to
generate a comfortable living environment and energy-efficient building
.
This has been further developed in the Q-tower, a 14 story mixed-use residential
condominium in Philadelphia, which was designed as a completely integrated
sustainable building in cooperation with the MIT Media Lab, Boston. The building
features a geothermal heating and cooling system transferring medium ground
temperature to heat pumps distributed throughout the building. The envelope is
designed to be 35% more efficient than department of energy requirements. The
pre-fabricated envelope fully encloses the thermal mass of the concrete floor slabs
to provide maximum heating/cooling retention. Other innovations include
window screens on sensors reacting to sunlight, and lighting control systems on
sensors and dimmers designed to reduce energy-use, and low-impact materials
and appliances throughout.
The LRH project in New York City’s Little Italy, currently under construction, is the
gut-renovation of an existing 6-story brick light manufacturing building. The building
is being converted to residential condominiums with a commercial and restaurant
tenants on the lower levels. Archi-Tectonics is working with the client to
achieve a LEED gold certification, which will be a first for a residential conversion in
New York City. The building is designed to accommodate a geothermal heating
and cooling system, which will be the first residential conversion in the city to use
geothermal.
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
This allows us to introduce intelligent systems into the generation of design, providing
the opportunity to rethink the urban environment in ways are overlooked by
traditional methods. With the aid of 3-D modeling software, we analyze and
research programmatic efficiencies, urban specificities, material innovations, and
are investigating the use of hybrid materials and smart building systems.
Within the framework of a large-scale urban development, our approach is to
analyze and map existing and potential conditions, and use this information to
develop generative systems that will enfold the multiple and complex performance
requirements of the development within a single and coherent solution. Archi-
Tectonics has broad experience with complex, mixed-use projects that negotiate
the functions of the building with surrounding urban environment. Below are
outlined Archi-Tectonics specific experience with issues of the full-service
approach, planning and zoning, and sustainable design.
Full-Service in all phases
Several of Archi-Tectonics Architectural projects have required changes in zoning,
special approvals related to individual districts such as landmarks districts, and
approvals for changes of use. Several projects have required zoning approvals for
individual sites. In addition, Archi-Tectonics has been a finalist for several large-scale
urban design competitions, including the Designing the High Line competition in
New York [jurors mention], and invited competitions such as Houthaven Pier in
Amsterdam, the Schoonhoven New Urban Plan, the Drents Museum, in The Netherlands
and recently won the Design Competition for a Sustainable new residential
and retail neighborhood in Staten Island New York [2007]. A few examples are:
The 497 GW project (www.greenwichstreetproject.com): Completed in 2004, this
11 story, 80,000 SF multi-unit residential loft condominium combines new construction
with the renovation of an existing warehouse. Archi-Tectonics obtained
approval for a change of use to residential occupancy from the New York City Board
of Standards and Appeals. This included variances for set-back requirements and
balconies. Archi-Tectonics designed the building, made the construction documents
and provided construction administration and supervision. We also designed
several loft interiors in the building, as well as the general areas such as the guest
apartment, the gym, pool and sauna area, wine room and screening room. The
project has served as a catalyst for development in the surrounding neighborhood,
the first of a string of new high-end residences in the area. See the “Portfolio”
section for more information on this project.
Setai Hotel / Condominiums: In Center City Philadelphia, Archi-Tectonics did the
complete zoning analysis and prepared the zoning application for this new 300,000
mixed-use building containing a 145 room hotel, 32 condominium units, restaurant,
retail, spa, pool and meeting rooms.
Prior to the zoning submission Archi-Tectonics did the feasibility study and
programming for the client. The project is currently in the construction document
phase. See “Portfolio” section for more information.
Recent Built Work
We studied the generative aspects of temporal modulations in the design of the
3000 sf GT-residence and the 1500 SF quest house located Upstate New York. The
house’s structural center resides in a generative core that, although originating in
the ground floor, achieves its full form and function in the second floor. This core,
the ARMATURE, is a centrally located “smart structure” integrating kitchen, bathrooms,
fireplace, heating and cooling systems, and a central music system.
The 80,000 sf mixed-use Greenwich project [2004] is another example; this elevenstory
building has as its main feature a custom-designed curtain wall. We developed
the geometry and engineering of the curtain wall through a 3-D computer
model, distributing it globally to all parties involved including our consultants,
fabricators, and installer. This guaranteed exact measurements and facilitated the
production of the 2D shop drawings. The curtain wall’s aluminum mullions were
extruded in Hong Kong, its double glazed panels folded in Barcelona and its units
assembled in Brooklyn.
Commercial spaces include Art Galleries in Soho and Chelsea such as ChristineRose
Gallery [1996] and Bitforms [2001] , and Corporate offices such as the 25,000 sf
Duggal Digital Headquarters [1999] and the 8000sf Gear Magazine offices [1998].
Residential work includes several extensive loft conversions; among others, the
5000sf Wooster Loft in Soho, the 4000sf NF Loft in the Theatre Building, several
lofts in our Greenwich Building, and we just finished a 3000sf Prefabricated
Residence in Holland [2008]
The American Loft Tower [57,000 sf] was just completed in Philadelphia. It creates
a special condition; the parking lot slips under the tower and the tower, delicately
balancing on its one edge, lifts up to allow this to occur. Its 40 residential apartments,
two penthouses, and two townhouses have spatial lay-outs, large balconies
and modern utilities. Poured in place concrete allowed for spacious cantilevers and
its façade was prefabricated to shorten construction time and to allow for the use
of innovative materials.
Currently under construction are the mixed-use LRH building [28.000sf], the
Residential V33 Building [77,000 sf], the Cibani Residence [5000 sf] and the Duane
Spa [10,000 sf] in NYC, and the Q-Tower [55,000 sf] in Philadelphia. For the ‘green’
Q-Tower we are incorporating geo-thermal energy, and other smart robotic
systems developed with the MIT Media Lab. Furthermore, in design-phase are a 18
story Tower in Midtown Manhattan, a large Commercial development in Time
Square, the Setai Hotel & Condominiums [300,000 sf] in Philadelphia, as well as Ten
Retail Pavillions in the Park [300,000 sf] in Brussels, Belgium.
Design Approach
Research is at the center of Archi-Tectonics’ practice, not only internally but also
through the cooperation with highly experienced professionals such as innovative
structural engineers, Sustainability experts and the MIT Media Lab.
Architectonics is a leading supplier of aluminium window and door systems for use in commercial and residential buildings. Working closely with our dealer installers we specialise in replacement and new build aluminium architectural systems for schools and public buildings.
Operational Architectonics framework of brain-mind functioning
It is well established currently that multiple oscillations, which occur in a large number of distributed oscillatory networks ( transient neuronal assemblies), underlie the presence of percepts, cognitive operations and eventually consciousness (Basar et al., 2003). It is supposed that the balance of autonomy and connectedness of different transient neuronal assemblies in the brain sustains brain-mind health (for review, see Fingelkurts et al., 2005b; see also Kelso, 1995; Freeman, 2003). Functional connectivity, which is defined as the temporal correlation between spatially remote neurophysiological events (Friston et al., 1993), is believed to serve as the mechanism for such a balance, leading to the coordination (or discoordination) of activity between different neural systems (dynamic cell assemblies across the cortex) (for review, see Stam et al., 2003; Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). Thus, functional connectivity between brain areas may be of major value in explaining perception, cognition and phenomenal consiousness by providing essential link between psychological and biological processes (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
There are two resent theoretical frameworks which accommodate the dynamical and self-organizational properties of transient neuronal assemblies: they are Coordination Dynamics (Kelso, 1995; Bressler and Kelso, 2001) and Operational Architectonics (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001, 2006). According to these frameworks complex cognitive functions are critically based on the dynamical interactions between and within many cortical neuronal assemblies (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2005). Furthermore, if the neural level alteration involves changes in the communication between different functional modules in the brain, then they should be associated with changes in the underlying EEG activity (synchrony between different brain areas, see recent synthesis and review Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2006). Thus, by focusing on the functional connectivity locally and among remote cortical areas in the brain during different mental states or different neuron- and psychopathological conditions, it is possible to better understand the mechanisms which are responsible for them.
Until recently, most of the research on functional connectivity in the brain concentrated on the coherence and phase synchrony studies. However, these methods have serious drawbacks and limitations (for a review see Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
Structural (operational) EEG synchrony analysis (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001) offers a more direct measure to study both local and remote cortex functional connectivity. Compared to coherence and other synchronicity measures, the advantage of structural EEG synchrony measure is that it is sensitive to EEG nonstationarity, and utilizes explicitly the notion of neurophysiological events, as well as local and large-scale levels of description (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). EEG nonstationarity implies that the EEG signal consists of quasi-stationary segments that reflect the changes in local metastable states of the brain on different time scales (for the recent review, see Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2004). Within the period of such segments neurons participating in the neuronal assembly are functionally synchronized (Fell et al., 2000). Such transient neuronal assemblies maintain discrete elemental brain operations some of which have phenomenal/subjective ontology in addition to the neuro-physiological one. Therefore, the analysis of EEG segmental characteristics enables to study the local functional cortex connectivity.
About Archi-Tectonics
Archi-Tectonics is a team of highly qualified architects. The studio operates like a laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic, research and application. Our team expresses itself in the rethinking, reinvestigating and reinterpreting of all project details and possibilities while still read more maintaining high efficiency in its work and 'setting the bar' for customer service and design in the competitive field of modern architecture.
Since 1994, Archi-Tectonics has been a leader in modern intelligent architectural design and research. Archi-Tectonics work ranges from residential to commercial, from real to virtual and is realized in urban designs, architectures, and installations. Along with the two Monographs, 'Winka Dubbeldam, Architect' [1996, 010 Publishers, Rotterdam], and AT-INdex [2007, Princeton Press, NYC], Archi-Tectonics' work has been published in a large number of international periodicals. Current projects under construction are: the 9-story residential Vestry building in Tribeca, NYC, the American Loft tower and a GHM hotel/residences tower in the center of Philadelphia, and a large retail / green area in the city center of Brussels, Belgium. Winka received the 'Emerging Voice' award [2001], and A-T was the award winner in the IIDA/Metropolis Smart
About
Northern Liberties is an upcoming trendy neighborhood, with small-scale structures and a mix of interesting cultures and people. The developer, Gagan Lakhmna, of CREI, realized the fact that what we build now is not merely a building, but a creation, a creation that will be one of the most significant investments, for many read more people, of their lives. The building will also have a lasting impact on the neighborhood, this is even more true for an urban architecture.
The American Loft building is one of its kind; it will feature a `green` sloping parking lot, which will slide or slope under the building to reveal the equally sloping bottom of the building. The parking lot will be a real green park, with trees and a grass covered parking lot.
The building is conceived as something between an Urban Villa and a Tower. It was crucial for it to be kept to an intimate scale, to match the scale of the neighborhood, as well as to avoid the monotonous repetition usual of bigger buildings. Its intimate natural plaster and Alucobond exterior will integrate fluidly in the streetscape. The concept of interlocking L-shapes allows for the integration of generous balconies with curtainwall facades. Forty open-plan lofts have generous views through large windows and are finished with modern European appliances and finishes.
As the building is completely built from natural materials, it will be low-maintenance and low energy use, a real `green building`
About
Ecology (from Greek: οίκος, oikos, "household"; and λόγος, logos, "knowledge") is the scientific study of the distribution and abundance of living organisms and how the distribution and abundance are affected by interactions between the organisms and their environment. The environment of an organism includes both physical properties, which can be described as the sum of local abiotic factors such as insolation (sunlight), climate, and geology, and biotic factors, which are other organisms that share its habitat. The word "ecology" is often used more loosely in such terms as social ecology and deep ecology and in common parlance as a synonym for the natural environment or environmentalism. Likewise "ecologic" or "ecological" is often taken in the sense of environmentally friendly. [WIKIPEDIA]
SOUNDSCAPE - The Client requested 10 pavilions in a new park to be located on a tunnel under Avenue Louise in Brussels. The relationship between the pavilions and the park, the ‘in-between space’, is based on a music piece [ with fast and slow rhythms, high and low tones, specially composed for the site. It helped integrate the built structures [the Pavilions] with the green zones [the Park], in one fluid movement, where one easily moves in and out of the space.
SMART ECOLOGY - The pavilions in the park are developed as a 'green' zone, both in the sense of natural green and incorporated nature [greenhouses] and in the sense of self-sustainability. Solar collectors provide energy, collected rainwater provides water for the park and green houses and also expresses itself in fountains providing cooling through 'misting'.
THE ART OF SHOPPING – Shopping here as a 'Green' experience has incorporated greenhouses with orchids, bamboo, etc., separating the different shopping pavilions and creating filtered daylight through the plants. The pavilions are connected below ground and separated in the park; large suspended gardens provide sunshading and rain protection while strolling from one pavilion to the other.
SMART SKIN – the structural skin of the building is a continuous thin concrete membrane spanning the space, integrated skylights provide natural light and a soft glow. The skin incorporates all heating and cooling systems.
About
Extension: The existing 3400 sf [316 m2] brownstone townhouse is a Landmark, located in Chelsea, NY. The existing structure will be gut-renovated and a 550 sf [52 m2] garden extension will be added of 2 floors and a roof terrace. The client, a fashion designer, is interested in a ‘textured’ approach.
Fluidity: The new back extension, is conceived as a light airy space which creates a filter to the garden space beyond, adding more light and better views. The curvy façade structure is digitally 3d printed of a reclaimed tropical wood by a car design company in California. Their CNC milling machine can mill objects of 20’ wide, the facade was luckily 18’ wide!
The curved wood ‘frame’ will be finished with a light steel and glass infill. It extends the library on the garden level, the living room on the parlor floor and a terrace for the master bedroom area above. The interior of the townhouse will get a new sculpted staircase with a skylight above, lighting the space all the way down. Large sets of sliding doors at the living and bedroomareas are creating flexible use of space; these doors are again 3d CNC milled with wood and glass patterns.
About
The 2500 sf Dub residence, located in Germany, was conceived as the intersection of two basic volumes; a low stone volume flanking the street with a wooden T-volume crossing over and cantilevering out over the garden.
PREFAB- Using prefabricated construction techniques, the Residence was constructed in 3 days and fully finished in 6 weeks. This short and predictable process eliminates the usual stress a client has related to unforeseen costs and unpredictable construction time. On the other hand it adds a high quality and precision to the construction and the engineering. The 15’ cantilever was essentially built as a wooden composite beam without the addition of any steel.
The stone ground floor volume contains living, dining, kitchen and master bed-, and bathrooms. Perched above the stone volume is the cantilevered second floor with a double-height atrium to the office, where one also finds storage rooms and the guestbed-, and bathrooms. This lightweight box of wood and glass is angled towards the garden and ends with a generous balcony. Its cantilever creates a shadowed terrace below directly off of the master bedroom.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY/LOW MAINTENANCE - The prefab panels provide a very high insulation level, which reduces energy consumption. The use of glass at strategic
places allows for passive solar energy. The radiant floor system guarantees an efficient heating and cooling system. The choice of natural materials for the exterior promotes a natural ‘aging’ process and a very low maintenance level: untreated reclaimed Ipe siding for natural resistance to decay & weathering; reclaimed wood window & door framing with 1’ insulated glass units.
Prefabrication helped us to make the Dub Residence an affordable intelligent building with 6 weeks construction time.
About
The integration of the existing building with the new 11 story steel & glass structure, will instigate a mediation between past and present. In the narrow crease rising between the two structures a set of cantilevering balconies will juxtapose and differentiate between the old and the new, the urban and the private, thus inserting an interactive space into an otherwise neutral streetscape. The Greenwich building has as its main feature a fully custom and innovative glass curtain wall, a light suspended waterfall of insulated bent glass panels, the first of its kind.
Senin, 04 Januari 2010
Minggu, 03 Januari 2010
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
Firm History
Winka Dubbeldam is the principal of Archi-Tectonics NY, founded in 1994 and
[2008]. Archi-Tectonics has been featured in a multiplicity of International professional
journals and in the two monographs “Winka Dubbeldam Architect” by 010
publishers [1996], and “AT-INdex” [2007] by Princeton Press, NY.
Solo Exhibits include: “Con-Texture” in the Form Zero Gallery in Los Angeles [1994]
which then moved to the Kunsthalle in Rotterdam [1996] and to the Dessa Gallery in
Lljublana [1996]. “From Hardware to Softform” in the Frederieke Taylor Gallery NYC
[2002] was built with the MIT Media Lab, and then moved to the Art and Idea
Gallery in Mexico-City [2004]. In addition Archi-Tectonics has participated in the
following group exhibitions; the PAN exhibit [2006] in the Taylor Gallery, NYC,
MOCA’s “Skin and Bones”, Los Angeles [2006 - 2007], The London Biennale [2006],
the Venice Biennale [2004], “A New World Trade Center” in Max Protetch Gallery,
included our interactive installation ”Flex City”, also featured at the Venice Biennale
[2002]. Archi-Lab Orleans, France [2000 & 2001], and the Museum of Modern Art
exhibitions “Young Architects” [2001] and the “UnPrivate House” exhibit [1999].
including the recent Staten Island Sustainable Housing Competition [winner] and
the Houthaven Competition in Amsterdam. Among others, Dubbeldam received
the “Emerging Voice” award from the Architectural League NYC in 2001 and was
nominated as “The Best and Brightest” by Esquire Magazine, Dec 2004. In 2006
Archi-Tectonics received the IIDA / Metropolis “Smart Environment Award”.
Philosophy and Design Concepts
laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic,
research with construction. The team spirit expresses itself in an aim to re-think, reinvestigate
and re-interpret all project details. We analyze and research programthe
use of hybrid materials and smart building systems. We emphasize communication
and input with our clients to enrich the project, and have a team of acknowledged
consultants and engineers to provide full expertise. The use of digital project
but even more; construct surprising and innovative structures.
amenities. In this way the wall provides not only all program requirements but also
void.
“Abstract and skeletal, Dubbeldam’s folds imbue this salon with an unmistakable
elegance and sophistication while maintaining an equal measure of tectonic clarity,
aesthetic economy, and purpose” writes Henry Urbach in Interior Design [Feb. 2001]
V33 residential condominium
(www.33vestry.com): Currently under construction,
this 33,000 SF multi-unit building is located in the Tribeca-Mixed Use special
zoning district and the Landmark Tribeca Historic District. Archi-Tectonics obtained
a certificate of appropriateness for new construction from the Landmarks Preservation
Commission, who has used the project as an exemplary example of an appropriate
modern building in historic context. Archi-Tectonics also helped obtain a
variance from the Board of Standards and Appeals for a change to residential use
for this site. Archi-Tectonics designed the building and all construction details,
and the full interiors, uniquely for each unit, geared towards the high-end residential
market. The building has parking in the cellar that is accessed from the street via
an automobile elevator.
Houthaven Pier, Amsterdam: Archi-Tectonics’ was one of three firms to be invited
in 2006 to compete for the design a mixed-use pier development containing 250
housing units and 10,000 square meters of commercial space. A three-dimensional
branching strategy is utilized to cultivate a ‘mini-neighborhood’ rather than a
monolithic ‘mega-building.’ This project is detailed on the following pages in this
section.
Green Design – “A state of mind”
Archi-Tectonics’ research focuses on achieving efficiencies that express themselves
in optimal modulations, which are also expressed in energy-efficiency and
sustainability. Archi-Tectonics has recently received the Smart Environment Award
from the IIDA & Metropolis for the GW//8B loft in the Greenwich Building. We
designed both the building and the loft. The Greenwich building features a highly
insulated glass skin, passive solar energy, and renewable building materials to
generate a comfortable living environment and energy-efficient building
.
This has been further developed in the Q-tower, a 14 story mixed-use residential
condominium in Philadelphia, which was designed as a completely integrated
sustainable building in cooperation with the MIT Media Lab, Boston. The building
features a geothermal heating and cooling system transferring medium ground
temperature to heat pumps distributed throughout the building. The envelope is
designed to be 35% more efficient than department of energy requirements. The
pre-fabricated envelope fully encloses the thermal mass of the concrete floor slabs
to provide maximum heating/cooling retention. Other innovations include
window screens on sensors reacting to sunlight, and lighting control systems on
sensors and dimmers designed to reduce energy-use, and low-impact materials
and appliances throughout.
The LRH project in New York City’s Little Italy, currently under construction, is the
gut-renovation of an existing 6-story brick light manufacturing building. The building
is being converted to residential condominiums with a commercial and restaurant
tenants on the lower levels. Archi-Tectonics is working with the client to
achieve a LEED gold certification, which will be a first for a residential conversion in
New York City. The building is designed to accommodate a geothermal heating
and cooling system, which will be the first residential conversion in the city to use
geothermal.
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
This allows us to introduce intelligent systems into the generation of design, providing
the opportunity to rethink the urban environment in ways are overlooked by
traditional methods. With the aid of 3-D modeling software, we analyze and
research programmatic efficiencies, urban specificities, material innovations, and
are investigating the use of hybrid materials and smart building systems.
Within the framework of a large-scale urban development, our approach is to
analyze and map existing and potential conditions, and use this information to
develop generative systems that will enfold the multiple and complex performance
requirements of the development within a single and coherent solution. Archi-
Tectonics has broad experience with complex, mixed-use projects that negotiate
the functions of the building with surrounding urban environment. Below are
outlined Archi-Tectonics specific experience with issues of the full-service
approach, planning and zoning, and sustainable design.
Full-Service in all phases
Several of Archi-Tectonics Architectural projects have required changes in zoning,
special approvals related to individual districts such as landmarks districts, and
approvals for changes of use. Several projects have required zoning approvals for
individual sites. In addition, Archi-Tectonics has been a finalist for several large-scale
urban design competitions, including the Designing the High Line competition in
New York [jurors mention], and invited competitions such as Houthaven Pier in
Amsterdam, the Schoonhoven New Urban Plan, the Drents Museum, in The Netherlands
and recently won the Design Competition for a Sustainable new residential
and retail neighborhood in Staten Island New York [2007]. A few examples are:
The 497 GW project (www.greenwichstreetproject.com): Completed in 2004, this
11 story, 80,000 SF multi-unit residential loft condominium combines new construction
with the renovation of an existing warehouse. Archi-Tectonics obtained
approval for a change of use to residential occupancy from the New York City Board
of Standards and Appeals. This included variances for set-back requirements and
balconies. Archi-Tectonics designed the building, made the construction documents
and provided construction administration and supervision. We also designed
several loft interiors in the building, as well as the general areas such as the guest
apartment, the gym, pool and sauna area, wine room and screening room. The
project has served as a catalyst for development in the surrounding neighborhood,
the first of a string of new high-end residences in the area. See the “Portfolio”
section for more information on this project.
Setai Hotel / Condominiums: In Center City Philadelphia, Archi-Tectonics did the
complete zoning analysis and prepared the zoning application for this new 300,000
mixed-use building containing a 145 room hotel, 32 condominium units, restaurant,
retail, spa, pool and meeting rooms.
Prior to the zoning submission Archi-Tectonics did the feasibility study and
programming for the client. The project is currently in the construction document
phase. See “Portfolio” section for more information.
Recent Built Work
We studied the generative aspects of temporal modulations in the design of the
3000 sf GT-residence and the 1500 SF quest house located Upstate New York. The
house’s structural center resides in a generative core that, although originating in
the ground floor, achieves its full form and function in the second floor. This core,
the ARMATURE, is a centrally located “smart structure” integrating kitchen, bathrooms,
fireplace, heating and cooling systems, and a central music system.
The 80,000 sf mixed-use Greenwich project [2004] is another example; this elevenstory
building has as its main feature a custom-designed curtain wall. We developed
the geometry and engineering of the curtain wall through a 3-D computer
model, distributing it globally to all parties involved including our consultants,
fabricators, and installer. This guaranteed exact measurements and facilitated the
production of the 2D shop drawings. The curtain wall’s aluminum mullions were
extruded in Hong Kong, its double glazed panels folded in Barcelona and its units
assembled in Brooklyn.
Commercial spaces include Art Galleries in Soho and Chelsea such as ChristineRose
Gallery [1996] and Bitforms [2001] , and Corporate offices such as the 25,000 sf
Duggal Digital Headquarters [1999] and the 8000sf Gear Magazine offices [1998].
Residential work includes several extensive loft conversions; among others, the
5000sf Wooster Loft in Soho, the 4000sf NF Loft in the Theatre Building, several
lofts in our Greenwich Building, and we just finished a 3000sf Prefabricated
Residence in Holland [2008]
The American Loft Tower [57,000 sf] was just completed in Philadelphia. It creates
a special condition; the parking lot slips under the tower and the tower, delicately
balancing on its one edge, lifts up to allow this to occur. Its 40 residential apartments,
two penthouses, and two townhouses have spatial lay-outs, large balconies
and modern utilities. Poured in place concrete allowed for spacious cantilevers and
its façade was prefabricated to shorten construction time and to allow for the use
of innovative materials.
Currently under construction are the mixed-use LRH building [28.000sf], the
Residential V33 Building [77,000 sf], the Cibani Residence [5000 sf] and the Duane
Spa [10,000 sf] in NYC, and the Q-Tower [55,000 sf] in Philadelphia. For the ‘green’
Q-Tower we are incorporating geo-thermal energy, and other smart robotic
systems developed with the MIT Media Lab. Furthermore, in design-phase are a 18
story Tower in Midtown Manhattan, a large Commercial development in Time
Square, the Setai Hotel & Condominiums [300,000 sf] in Philadelphia, as well as Ten
Retail Pavillions in the Park [300,000 sf] in Brussels, Belgium.
Design Approach
Research is at the center of Archi-Tectonics’ practice, not only internally but also
through the cooperation with highly experienced professionals such as innovative
structural engineers, Sustainability experts and the MIT Media Lab.
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
Architectonics is a leading supplier of aluminium window and door systems for use in commercial and residential buildings. Working closely with our dealer installers we specialise in replacement and new build aluminium architectural systems for schools and public buildings.
Operational Architectonics framework of brain-mind functioning
26 June 2008
t is well established currently that multiple oscillations, which occur in a large number of distributed oscillatory networks ( transient neuronal assemblies), underlie the presence of percepts, cognitive operations and eventually consciousness (Basar et al., 2003). It is supposed that the balance of autonomy and connectedness of different transient neuronal assemblies in the brain sustains brain-mind health (for review, see Fingelkurts et al., 2005b; see also Kelso, 1995; Freeman, 2003). Functional connectivity, which is defined as the temporal correlation between spatially remote neurophysiological events (Friston et al., 1993), is believed to serve as the mechanism for such a balance, leading to the coordination (or discoordination) of activity between different neural systems (dynamic cell assemblies across the cortex) (for review, see Stam et al., 2003; Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). Thus, functional connectivity between brain areas may be of major value in explaining perception, cognition and phenomenal consiousness by providing essential link between psychological and biological processes (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
There are two resent theoretical frameworks which accommodate the dynamical and self-organizational properties of transient neuronal assemblies: they are Coordination Dynamics (Kelso, 1995; Bressler and Kelso, 2001) and Operational Architectonics (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001, 2006). According to these frameworks complex cognitive functions are critically based on the dynamical interactions between and within many cortical neuronal assemblies (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2005). Furthermore, if the neural level alteration involves changes in the communication between different functional modules in the brain, then they should be associated with changes in the underlying EEG activity (synchrony between different brain areas, see recent synthesis and review Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2006). Thus, by focusing on the functional connectivity locally and among remote cortical areas in the brain during different mental states or different neuron- and psychopathological conditions, it is possible to better understand the mechanisms which are responsible for them.
Until recently, most of the research on functional connectivity in the brain concentrated on the coherence and phase synchrony studies. However, these methods have serious drawbacks and limitations (for a review see Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
Structural (operational) EEG synchrony analysis (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001) offers a more direct measure to study both local and remote cortex functional connectivity. Compared to coherence and other synchronicity measures, the advantage of structural EEG synchrony measure is that it is sensitive to EEG nonstationarity, and utilizes explicitly the notion of neurophysiological events, as well as local and large-scale levels of description (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). EEG nonstationarity implies that the EEG signal consists of quasi-stationary segments that reflect the changes in local metastable states of the brain on different time scales (for the recent review, see Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2004). Within the period of such segments neurons participating in the neuronal assembly are functionally synchronized (Fell et al., 2000). Such transient neuronal assemblies maintain discrete elemental brain operations some of which have phenomenal/subjective ontology in addition to the neuro-physiological one. Therefore, the analysis of EEG segmental characteristics enables to study the local functional cortex connectivity.
About Archi-Tectonics
Archi-Tectonics is a team of highly qualified architects. The studio operates like a laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic, research and application. Our team expresses itself in the rethinking, reinvestigating and reinterpreting of all project details and possibilities while still maintaining high efficiency in its work and 'setting the bar' for customer service and design in the competitive field of modern architecture.
Since 1994, Archi-Tectonics has been a leader in modern intelligent architectural design and research. Archi-Tectonics work ranges from residential to commercial, from real to virtual and is realized in urban designs, architectures, and installations. Along with the two Monographs, 'Winka Dubbeldam, Architect' [1996, 010 Publishers, Rotterdam], and AT-INdex [2007, Princeton Press, NYC], Archi-Tectonics' work has been published in a large number of international periodicals. Current projects under construction are: the 9-story residential Vestry building in Tribeca, NYC, the American Loft tower and a GHM hotel/residences tower in the center of Philadelphia, and a large retail / green area in the city center of Brussels, Belgium. Winka received the 'Emerging Voice' award [2001], and A-T was the award winner in the IIDA/Metropolis Smart Environments Award [2006].
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About
Northern Liberties is an upcoming trendy neighborhood, with small-scale structures and a mix of interesting cultures and people. The developer, Gagan Lakhmna, of CREI, realized the fact that what we build now is not merely a building, but a creation, a creation that will be one of the most significant investments, for many people, of their lives. The building will also have a lasting impact on the neighborhood, this is even more true for an urban architecture.
The American Loft building is one of its kind; it will feature a `green` sloping parking lot, which will slide or slope under the building to reveal the equally sloping bottom of the building. The parking lot will be a real green park, with trees and a grass covered parking lot.
The building is conceived as something between an Urban Villa and a Tower. It was crucial for it to be kept to an intimate scale, to match the scale of the neighborhood, as well as to avoid the monotonous repetition usual of bigger buildings. Its intimate natural plaster and Alucobond exterior will integrate fluidly in the streetscape. The concept of interlocking L-shapes allows for the integration of generous balconies with curtainwall facades. Forty open-plan lofts have generous views through large windows and are finished with modern European appliances and finishes.
As the building is completely built from natural materials, it will be low-maintenance and low energy use, a real `green building`
About
Ecology (from Greek: οίκος, oikos, "household"; and λόγος, logos, "knowledge") is the scientific study of the distribution and abundance of living organisms and how the distribution and abundance are affected by interactions between the organisms and their environment. The environment of an organism includes both physical properties, which can be described as the sum of local abiotic factors such as insolation (sunlight), climate, and geology, and biotic factors, which are other organisms that share its habitat. The word "ecology" is often used more loosely in such terms as social ecology and deep ecology and in common parlance as a synonym for the natural environment or environmentalism. Likewise "ecologic" or "ecological" is often taken in the sense of environmentally friendly. [WIKIPEDIA]
SOUNDSCAPE - The Client requested 10 pavilions in a new park to be located on a tunnel under Avenue Louise in Brussels. The relationship between the pavilions and the park, the ‘in-between space’, is based on a music piece [ with fast and slow rhythms, high and low tones, specially composed for the site. It helped integrate the built structures [the Pavilions] with the green zones [the Park], in one fluid movement, where one easily moves in and out of the space.
SMART ECOLOGY - The pavilions in the park are developed as a 'green' zone, both in the sense of natural green and incorporated nature [greenhouses] and in the sense of self-sustainability. Solar collectors provide energy, collected rainwater provides water for the park and green houses and also expresses itself in fountains providing cooling through 'misting'.
THE ART OF SHOPPING – Shopping here as a 'Green' experience has incorporated greenhouses with orchids, bamboo, etc., separating the different shopping pavilions and creating filtered daylight through the plants. The pavilions are connected below ground and separated in the park; large suspended gardens provide sunshading and rain protection while strolling from one pavilion to the other.
SMART SKIN – the structural skin of the building is a continuous thin concrete membrane spanning the space, integrated skylights provide natural light and a soft glow. The skin incorporates all heating and cooling systems.
About
Extension: The existing 3400 sf [316 m2] brownstone townhouse is a Landmark, located in Chelsea, NY. The existing structure will be gut-renovated and a 550 sf [52 m2] garden extension will be added of 2 floors and a roof terrace. The client, a fashion designer, is interested in a ‘textured’ approach.
Fluidity: The new back extension, is conceived as a light airy space which creates a filter to the garden space beyond, adding more light and better views. The curvy façade structure is digitally 3d printed of a reclaimed tropical wood by a car design company in California. Their CNC milling machine can mill objects of 20’ wide, the facade was luckily 18’ wide!
The curved wood ‘frame’ will be finished with a light steel and glass infill. It extends the library on the garden level, the living room on the parlor floor and a terrace for the master bedroom area above. The interior of the townhouse will get a new sculpted staircase with a skylight above, lighting the space all the way down. Large sets of sliding doors at the living and bedroomareas are creating flexible use of space; these doors are again 3d CNC milled with wood and glass patterns.
About
The 2500 sf Dub residence, located in Germany, was conceived as the intersection of two basic volumes; a low stone volume flanking the street with a wooden T-volume crossing over and cantilevering out over the garden.
PREFAB- Using prefabricated construction techniques, the Residence was constructed in 3 days and fully finished in 6 weeks. This short and predictable process eliminates the usual stress a client has related to unforeseen costs and unpredictable construction time. On the other hand it adds a high quality and precision to the construction and the engineering. The 15’ cantilever was essentially built as a wooden composite beam without the addition of any steel.
The stone ground floor volume contains living, dining, kitchen and master bed-, and bathrooms. Perched above the stone volume is the cantilevered second floor with a double-height atrium to the office, where one also finds storage rooms and the guestbed-, and bathrooms. This lightweight box of wood and glass is angled towards the garden and ends with a generous balcony. Its cantilever creates a shadowed terrace below directly off of the master bedroom.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY/LOW MAINTENANCE - The prefab panels provide a very high insulation level, which reduces energy consumption. The use of glass at strategic
places allows for passive solar energy. The radiant floor system guarantees an efficient heating and cooling system. The choice of natural materials for the exterior promotes a natural ‘aging’ process and a very low maintenance level: untreated reclaimed Ipe siding for natural resistance to decay & weathering; reclaimed wood window & door framing with 1’ insulated glass units.
Prefabrication helped us to make the Dub Residence an affordable intelligent building with 6 weeks construction time.
About
The integration of the existing building with the new 11 story steel & glass structure, will instigate a mediation between past and present. In the narrow crease rising between the two structures a set of cantilevering balconies will juxtapose and differentiate between the old and the new, the urban and the private, thus inserting an interactive space into an otherwise neutral streetscape. The Greenwich building has as its main feature a fully custom and innovative glass curtain wall, a light suspended waterfall of insulated bent glass panels, the first of its kind.
About
Wrapping itself over and along an existing renovated six-story warehouse, the GW 497 building creates a suspended glass waterfall on the edge of New York City’s SoHo district. Eleven stories in height, the structure defines itself as a reinterpretation of the city’s strict building setback regulations. A process of mathematical inflection of the glass planes was introduced to provide a system that would transform the segmented façade into a more continuous set of glass ripples, thus creating a folded vertical landscape of glass and steel.
The 3200 s.f. Schein Loft is located on the eighth floor of the building, above the existing warehouse. The interior spaces are arranged as a series of overlapping zones rather than enclosed rooms. This open layout, in addition to the windows that are on all sides of the unit, welcomes a relationship to the outside and emphasizes views of the city.
Terraces are located on the East and West façades, one extending from the master bedroom and the other from the residence’s generous living and dining space. The latter, which overlooks the Hudson River towards the West, is accessed through the faceted glass curtain wall. Natural [west] sunlight floods the interior living spaces through this side of the building, allowing for passive solar energy to be gained by the concrete floor in the wintertime. This double-glazed façade acts not only as an impressive viewport to the city but is in fact a highly insulating element for the home. Two layers of ¼” glass with heat-absorbing low-e film on the outside layer make for a quiet internal environment and for a stable climate with little additional heating and cooling. The lighting, ceiling fans and the window shades, which react to climactic changes, are efficiently controlled by an intelligent home system.
The interior spaces are intended to be comfortable and relaxing, withdrawing the residents from the busy urban environment below. Natural materials inundate the spaces while the spine, a sculptural structure that runs through the loft, defines boundaries softly rather than rigidly and provides an aesthetic language that is casual and warm. The structure is composed of a thin black metal frame and recycled bogwood veneer, an oakwood that, after having been buried in peat bogs and preserved from decay, is naturally stained by tannins in a blond and black pattern.
As the main artery of the loft, the spine distributes the private spaces adjacent to its organic structure and moves light and air from one end of the residence to the other. It holds a freely suspended ceiling plane, which provides cooling, heating and fresh air, thanks to a built-in humidifier and air purification system. The music room, guest bathroom, master bedroom and adjacent bathroom grow from this smooth and softly lit axis.
Essentially an extension of the living quarters, the master bathroom has a spa-like and escapist quality, complete with overflow bath and steam shower. Other interior features include a 7 ft long fireplace, built from materials from local stone quarries, and art storage areas that are integrated into the anatomy of the residence, either as extensions of the bogwood structure or as spaces concealed by pivoting walls that seamlessly blend into the space.
All these elements combined - the environmental, spatial and aesthetic considerations – make of the Schein Loft a most adequate place for finely-tuned living, a sense of balance and order permeating the whole.
About
Located in Philadelphia’s dynamic Northern Liberties neighborhood, The Q Tower is a 24-unit tower with an elevated ground floor world-class restaurant. The building occupies a previously vacant lot and continues the catalytic growth that the area is currently experiencing. The building has been developed as a ‘smart’ tower, with integrated systems reactive to its inhabitants. Our collaboration with Ted Selker of the Context Aware Computing Lab at MIT Media Lab is aimed toward integrating interactive living environments, developing the tower as a ‘learning’ structure. The MIT Media lab is recognized for its work in creating environments that use sensors and artificial intelligence to create so-called virtual sensors, adaptive models of users to create keyboard-less computer scenarios. Sensor technologies will facilitate the interaction of the users with the tower as a unit: RFID controlled ‘contactless’ fast-pass access, robotic storage, smart controls, with sensors for lighting, sound, and air-conditioning all increase ease of use and energy-efficiency. The collaboration has produced a wide range of innovations in the building systems: an in-car Smart Pass allows automatic parking access, will register the delivery ‘Smart Closets,’ and give feedback to a virtual doorman. All this will make the tower a responsive structure, easy to inhabit.
Each living unit has been designed to be ‘special’ to its inhabitant. Algorithmic rule sets allocate room type and variation based on programmatic relationships, transparency percentage, and change in transition angles. All possible room transitions—experienced here as potential windows—are made available as an algorithmic set. Each potential transition is considered before the optimal window subset is chosen and the next decision tree is started. All trees are looping and linked, and are therefore affected by both past and future decisions. The result is an envelope that is able to respond fluidly to both the dynamic programmatic conditions within the building and to itself, re-thinking the relationship of window and façade to allow them to be integral to one another. The FTF—or file-to-factor—method was developed so that single continuous metal sheets can be shaped by computer-driven equipment according to algorithmically generated geometries, which are generated in a parametric software. This approach permits the structures to be modeled and easily fabricated, translating into reasonable costs.
As environmental concerns increase, so too must we increase our responsible use of natural resources. Q-Tower is off the grid, using geo-thermal energy, smart lighting, and cooling controls on sensors. The use of local, recycled materials—glass-asphalt, recycled aluminum—and intelligent appliances further reduces the use of energy and resources.
Firm History
Winka Dubbeldam is the principal of Archi-Tectonics NY, founded in 1994 and
[2008]. Archi-Tectonics has been featured in a multiplicity of International professional
journals and in the two monographs “Winka Dubbeldam Architect” by 010
publishers [1996], and “AT-INdex” [2007] by Princeton Press, NY.
Solo Exhibits include: “Con-Texture” in the Form Zero Gallery in Los Angeles [1994]
which then moved to the Kunsthalle in Rotterdam [1996] and to the Dessa Gallery in
Lljublana [1996]. “From Hardware to Softform” in the Frederieke Taylor Gallery NYC
[2002] was built with the MIT Media Lab, and then moved to the Art and Idea
Gallery in Mexico-City [2004]. In addition Archi-Tectonics has participated in the
following group exhibitions; the PAN exhibit [2006] in the Taylor Gallery, NYC,
MOCA’s “Skin and Bones”, Los Angeles [2006 - 2007], The London Biennale [2006],
the Venice Biennale [2004], “A New World Trade Center” in Max Protetch Gallery,
included our interactive installation ”Flex City”, also featured at the Venice Biennale
[2002]. Archi-Lab Orleans, France [2000 & 2001], and the Museum of Modern Art
exhibitions “Young Architects” [2001] and the “UnPrivate House” exhibit [1999].
including the recent Staten Island Sustainable Housing Competition [winner] and
the Houthaven Competition in Amsterdam. Among others, Dubbeldam received
the “Emerging Voice” award from the Architectural League NYC in 2001 and was
nominated as “The Best and Brightest” by Esquire Magazine, Dec 2004. In 2006
Archi-Tectonics received the IIDA / Metropolis “Smart Environment Award”.
Philosophy and Design Concepts
laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic,
research with construction. The team spirit expresses itself in an aim to re-think, reinvestigate
and re-interpret all project details. We analyze and research programthe
use of hybrid materials and smart building systems. We emphasize communication
and input with our clients to enrich the project, and have a team of acknowledged
consultants and engineers to provide full expertise. The use of digital project
but even more; construct surprising and innovative structures.
amenities. In this way the wall provides not only all program requirements but also
void.
“Abstract and skeletal, Dubbeldam’s folds imbue this salon with an unmistakable
elegance and sophistication while maintaining an equal measure of tectonic clarity,
aesthetic economy, and purpose” writes Henry Urbach in Interior Design [Feb. 2001]
V33 residential condominium
(www.33vestry.com): Currently under construction,
this 33,000 SF multi-unit building is located in the Tribeca-Mixed Use special
zoning district and the Landmark Tribeca Historic District. Archi-Tectonics obtained
a certificate of appropriateness for new construction from the Landmarks Preservation
Commission, who has used the project as an exemplary example of an appropriate
modern building in historic context. Archi-Tectonics also helped obtain a
variance from the Board of Standards and Appeals for a change to residential use
for this site. Archi-Tectonics designed the building and all construction details,
and the full interiors, uniquely for each unit, geared towards the high-end residential
market. The building has parking in the cellar that is accessed from the street via
an automobile elevator.
Houthaven Pier, Amsterdam: Archi-Tectonics’ was one of three firms to be invited
in 2006 to compete for the design a mixed-use pier development containing 250
housing units and 10,000 square meters of commercial space. A three-dimensional
branching strategy is utilized to cultivate a ‘mini-neighborhood’ rather than a
monolithic ‘mega-building.’ This project is detailed on the following pages in this
section.
Green Design – “A state of mind”
Archi-Tectonics’ research focuses on achieving efficiencies that express themselves
in optimal modulations, which are also expressed in energy-efficiency and
sustainability. Archi-Tectonics has recently received the Smart Environment Award
from the IIDA & Metropolis for the GW//8B loft in the Greenwich Building. We
designed both the building and the loft. The Greenwich building features a highly
insulated glass skin, passive solar energy, and renewable building materials to
generate a comfortable living environment and energy-efficient building
.
This has been further developed in the Q-tower, a 14 story mixed-use residential
condominium in Philadelphia, which was designed as a completely integrated
sustainable building in cooperation with the MIT Media Lab, Boston. The building
features a geothermal heating and cooling system transferring medium ground
temperature to heat pumps distributed throughout the building. The envelope is
designed to be 35% more efficient than department of energy requirements. The
pre-fabricated envelope fully encloses the thermal mass of the concrete floor slabs
to provide maximum heating/cooling retention. Other innovations include
window screens on sensors reacting to sunlight, and lighting control systems on
sensors and dimmers designed to reduce energy-use, and low-impact materials
and appliances throughout.
The LRH project in New York City’s Little Italy, currently under construction, is the
gut-renovation of an existing 6-story brick light manufacturing building. The building
is being converted to residential condominiums with a commercial and restaurant
tenants on the lower levels. Archi-Tectonics is working with the client to
achieve a LEED gold certification, which will be a first for a residential conversion in
New York City. The building is designed to accommodate a geothermal heating
and cooling system, which will be the first residential conversion in the city to use
geothermal.
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
This allows us to introduce intelligent systems into the generation of design, providing
the opportunity to rethink the urban environment in ways are overlooked by
traditional methods. With the aid of 3-D modeling software, we analyze and
research programmatic efficiencies, urban specificities, material innovations, and
are investigating the use of hybrid materials and smart building systems.
Within the framework of a large-scale urban development, our approach is to
analyze and map existing and potential conditions, and use this information to
develop generative systems that will enfold the multiple and complex performance
requirements of the development within a single and coherent solution. Archi-
Tectonics has broad experience with complex, mixed-use projects that negotiate
the functions of the building with surrounding urban environment. Below are
outlined Archi-Tectonics specific experience with issues of the full-service
approach, planning and zoning, and sustainable design.
Full-Service in all phases
Several of Archi-Tectonics Architectural projects have required changes in zoning,
special approvals related to individual districts such as landmarks districts, and
approvals for changes of use. Several projects have required zoning approvals for
individual sites. In addition, Archi-Tectonics has been a finalist for several large-scale
urban design competitions, including the Designing the High Line competition in
New York [jurors mention], and invited competitions such as Houthaven Pier in
Amsterdam, the Schoonhoven New Urban Plan, the Drents Museum, in The Netherlands
and recently won the Design Competition for a Sustainable new residential
and retail neighborhood in Staten Island New York [2007]. A few examples are:
The 497 GW project (www.greenwichstreetproject.com): Completed in 2004, this
11 story, 80,000 SF multi-unit residential loft condominium combines new construction
with the renovation of an existing warehouse. Archi-Tectonics obtained
approval for a change of use to residential occupancy from the New York City Board
of Standards and Appeals. This included variances for set-back requirements and
balconies. Archi-Tectonics designed the building, made the construction documents
and provided construction administration and supervision. We also designed
several loft interiors in the building, as well as the general areas such as the guest
apartment, the gym, pool and sauna area, wine room and screening room. The
project has served as a catalyst for development in the surrounding neighborhood,
the first of a string of new high-end residences in the area. See the “Portfolio”
section for more information on this project.
Setai Hotel / Condominiums: In Center City Philadelphia, Archi-Tectonics did the
complete zoning analysis and prepared the zoning application for this new 300,000
mixed-use building containing a 145 room hotel, 32 condominium units, restaurant,
retail, spa, pool and meeting rooms.
Prior to the zoning submission Archi-Tectonics did the feasibility study and
programming for the client. The project is currently in the construction document
phase. See “Portfolio” section for more information.
Recent Built Work
We studied the generative aspects of temporal modulations in the design of the
3000 sf GT-residence and the 1500 SF quest house located Upstate New York. The
house’s structural center resides in a generative core that, although originating in
the ground floor, achieves its full form and function in the second floor. This core,
the ARMATURE, is a centrally located “smart structure” integrating kitchen, bathrooms,
fireplace, heating and cooling systems, and a central music system.
The 80,000 sf mixed-use Greenwich project [2004] is another example; this elevenstory
building has as its main feature a custom-designed curtain wall. We developed
the geometry and engineering of the curtain wall through a 3-D computer
model, distributing it globally to all parties involved including our consultants,
fabricators, and installer. This guaranteed exact measurements and facilitated the
production of the 2D shop drawings. The curtain wall’s aluminum mullions were
extruded in Hong Kong, its double glazed panels folded in Barcelona and its units
assembled in Brooklyn.
Commercial spaces include Art Galleries in Soho and Chelsea such as ChristineRose
Gallery [1996] and Bitforms [2001] , and Corporate offices such as the 25,000 sf
Duggal Digital Headquarters [1999] and the 8000sf Gear Magazine offices [1998].
Residential work includes several extensive loft conversions; among others, the
5000sf Wooster Loft in Soho, the 4000sf NF Loft in the Theatre Building, several
lofts in our Greenwich Building, and we just finished a 3000sf Prefabricated
Residence in Holland [2008]
The American Loft Tower [57,000 sf] was just completed in Philadelphia. It creates
a special condition; the parking lot slips under the tower and the tower, delicately
balancing on its one edge, lifts up to allow this to occur. Its 40 residential apartments,
two penthouses, and two townhouses have spatial lay-outs, large balconies
and modern utilities. Poured in place concrete allowed for spacious cantilevers and
its façade was prefabricated to shorten construction time and to allow for the use
of innovative materials.
Currently under construction are the mixed-use LRH building [28.000sf], the
Residential V33 Building [77,000 sf], the Cibani Residence [5000 sf] and the Duane
Spa [10,000 sf] in NYC, and the Q-Tower [55,000 sf] in Philadelphia. For the ‘green’
Q-Tower we are incorporating geo-thermal energy, and other smart robotic
systems developed with the MIT Media Lab. Furthermore, in design-phase are a 18
story Tower in Midtown Manhattan, a large Commercial development in Time
Square, the Setai Hotel & Condominiums [300,000 sf] in Philadelphia, as well as Ten
Retail Pavillions in the Park [300,000 sf] in Brussels, Belgium.
Design Approach
Research is at the center of Archi-Tectonics’ practice, not only internally but also
through the cooperation with highly experienced professionals such as innovative
structural engineers, Sustainability experts and the MIT Media Lab.
ARCHI-TECTONICS: NEW YORK / SHANGHAI
Architectonics is a leading supplier of aluminium window and door systems for use in commercial and residential buildings. Working closely with our dealer installers we specialise in replacement and new build aluminium architectural systems for schools and public buildings.
Operational Architectonics framework of brain-mind functioning
26 June 2008
t is well established currently that multiple oscillations, which occur in a large number of distributed oscillatory networks ( transient neuronal assemblies), underlie the presence of percepts, cognitive operations and eventually consciousness (Basar et al., 2003). It is supposed that the balance of autonomy and connectedness of different transient neuronal assemblies in the brain sustains brain-mind health (for review, see Fingelkurts et al., 2005b; see also Kelso, 1995; Freeman, 2003). Functional connectivity, which is defined as the temporal correlation between spatially remote neurophysiological events (Friston et al., 1993), is believed to serve as the mechanism for such a balance, leading to the coordination (or discoordination) of activity between different neural systems (dynamic cell assemblies across the cortex) (for review, see Stam et al., 2003; Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). Thus, functional connectivity between brain areas may be of major value in explaining perception, cognition and phenomenal consiousness by providing essential link between psychological and biological processes (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
There are two resent theoretical frameworks which accommodate the dynamical and self-organizational properties of transient neuronal assemblies: they are Coordination Dynamics (Kelso, 1995; Bressler and Kelso, 2001) and Operational Architectonics (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001, 2006). According to these frameworks complex cognitive functions are critically based on the dynamical interactions between and within many cortical neuronal assemblies (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2005). Furthermore, if the neural level alteration involves changes in the communication between different functional modules in the brain, then they should be associated with changes in the underlying EEG activity (synchrony between different brain areas, see recent synthesis and review Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2006). Thus, by focusing on the functional connectivity locally and among remote cortical areas in the brain during different mental states or different neuron- and psychopathological conditions, it is possible to better understand the mechanisms which are responsible for them.
Until recently, most of the research on functional connectivity in the brain concentrated on the coherence and phase synchrony studies. However, these methods have serious drawbacks and limitations (for a review see Fingelkurts et al., 2005a).
Structural (operational) EEG synchrony analysis (Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2001) offers a more direct measure to study both local and remote cortex functional connectivity. Compared to coherence and other synchronicity measures, the advantage of structural EEG synchrony measure is that it is sensitive to EEG nonstationarity, and utilizes explicitly the notion of neurophysiological events, as well as local and large-scale levels of description (Fingelkurts et al., 2005a). EEG nonstationarity implies that the EEG signal consists of quasi-stationary segments that reflect the changes in local metastable states of the brain on different time scales (for the recent review, see Fingelkurts and Fingelkurts, 2004). Within the period of such segments neurons participating in the neuronal assembly are functionally synchronized (Fell et al., 2000). Such transient neuronal assemblies maintain discrete elemental brain operations some of which have phenomenal/subjective ontology in addition to the neuro-physiological one. Therefore, the analysis of EEG segmental characteristics enables to study the local functional cortex connectivity.
About Archi-Tectonics
Archi-Tectonics is a team of highly qualified architects. The studio operates like a laboratory: a philosophy based upon combining the theoretical with the pragmatic, research and application. Our team expresses itself in the rethinking, reinvestigating and reinterpreting of all project details and possibilities while still maintaining high efficiency in its work and 'setting the bar' for customer service and design in the competitive field of modern architecture.
Since 1994, Archi-Tectonics has been a leader in modern intelligent architectural design and research. Archi-Tectonics work ranges from residential to commercial, from real to virtual and is realized in urban designs, architectures, and installations. Along with the two Monographs, 'Winka Dubbeldam, Architect' [1996, 010 Publishers, Rotterdam], and AT-INdex [2007, Princeton Press, NYC], Archi-Tectonics' work has been published in a large number of international periodicals. Current projects under construction are: the 9-story residential Vestry building in Tribeca, NYC, the American Loft tower and a GHM hotel/residences tower in the center of Philadelphia, and a large retail / green area in the city center of Brussels, Belgium. Winka received the 'Emerging Voice' award [2001], and A-T was the award winner in the IIDA/Metropolis Smart Environments Award [2006].
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About
Northern Liberties is an upcoming trendy neighborhood, with small-scale structures and a mix of interesting cultures and people. The developer, Gagan Lakhmna, of CREI, realized the fact that what we build now is not merely a building, but a creation, a creation that will be one of the most significant investments, for many people, of their lives. The building will also have a lasting impact on the neighborhood, this is even more true for an urban architecture.
The American Loft building is one of its kind; it will feature a `green` sloping parking lot, which will slide or slope under the building to reveal the equally sloping bottom of the building. The parking lot will be a real green park, with trees and a grass covered parking lot.
The building is conceived as something between an Urban Villa and a Tower. It was crucial for it to be kept to an intimate scale, to match the scale of the neighborhood, as well as to avoid the monotonous repetition usual of bigger buildings. Its intimate natural plaster and Alucobond exterior will integrate fluidly in the streetscape. The concept of interlocking L-shapes allows for the integration of generous balconies with curtainwall facades. Forty open-plan lofts have generous views through large windows and are finished with modern European appliances and finishes.
As the building is completely built from natural materials, it will be low-maintenance and low energy use, a real `green building`
About
Ecology (from Greek: οίκος, oikos, "household"; and λόγος, logos, "knowledge") is the scientific study of the distribution and abundance of living organisms and how the distribution and abundance are affected by interactions between the organisms and their environment. The environment of an organism includes both physical properties, which can be described as the sum of local abiotic factors such as insolation (sunlight), climate, and geology, and biotic factors, which are other organisms that share its habitat. The word "ecology" is often used more loosely in such terms as social ecology and deep ecology and in common parlance as a synonym for the natural environment or environmentalism. Likewise "ecologic" or "ecological" is often taken in the sense of environmentally friendly. [WIKIPEDIA]
SOUNDSCAPE - The Client requested 10 pavilions in a new park to be located on a tunnel under Avenue Louise in Brussels. The relationship between the pavilions and the park, the ‘in-between space’, is based on a music piece [ with fast and slow rhythms, high and low tones, specially composed for the site. It helped integrate the built structures [the Pavilions] with the green zones [the Park], in one fluid movement, where one easily moves in and out of the space.
SMART ECOLOGY - The pavilions in the park are developed as a 'green' zone, both in the sense of natural green and incorporated nature [greenhouses] and in the sense of self-sustainability. Solar collectors provide energy, collected rainwater provides water for the park and green houses and also expresses itself in fountains providing cooling through 'misting'.
THE ART OF SHOPPING – Shopping here as a 'Green' experience has incorporated greenhouses with orchids, bamboo, etc., separating the different shopping pavilions and creating filtered daylight through the plants. The pavilions are connected below ground and separated in the park; large suspended gardens provide sunshading and rain protection while strolling from one pavilion to the other.
SMART SKIN – the structural skin of the building is a continuous thin concrete membrane spanning the space, integrated skylights provide natural light and a soft glow. The skin incorporates all heating and cooling systems.
About
Extension: The existing 3400 sf [316 m2] brownstone townhouse is a Landmark, located in Chelsea, NY. The existing structure will be gut-renovated and a 550 sf [52 m2] garden extension will be added of 2 floors and a roof terrace. The client, a fashion designer, is interested in a ‘textured’ approach.
Fluidity: The new back extension, is conceived as a light airy space which creates a filter to the garden space beyond, adding more light and better views. The curvy façade structure is digitally 3d printed of a reclaimed tropical wood by a car design company in California. Their CNC milling machine can mill objects of 20’ wide, the facade was luckily 18’ wide!
The curved wood ‘frame’ will be finished with a light steel and glass infill. It extends the library on the garden level, the living room on the parlor floor and a terrace for the master bedroom area above. The interior of the townhouse will get a new sculpted staircase with a skylight above, lighting the space all the way down. Large sets of sliding doors at the living and bedroomareas are creating flexible use of space; these doors are again 3d CNC milled with wood and glass patterns.
About
The 2500 sf Dub residence, located in Germany, was conceived as the intersection of two basic volumes; a low stone volume flanking the street with a wooden T-volume crossing over and cantilevering out over the garden.
PREFAB- Using prefabricated construction techniques, the Residence was constructed in 3 days and fully finished in 6 weeks. This short and predictable process eliminates the usual stress a client has related to unforeseen costs and unpredictable construction time. On the other hand it adds a high quality and precision to the construction and the engineering. The 15’ cantilever was essentially built as a wooden composite beam without the addition of any steel.
The stone ground floor volume contains living, dining, kitchen and master bed-, and bathrooms. Perched above the stone volume is the cantilevered second floor with a double-height atrium to the office, where one also finds storage rooms and the guestbed-, and bathrooms. This lightweight box of wood and glass is angled towards the garden and ends with a generous balcony. Its cantilever creates a shadowed terrace below directly off of the master bedroom.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY/LOW MAINTENANCE - The prefab panels provide a very high insulation level, which reduces energy consumption. The use of glass at strategic
places allows for passive solar energy. The radiant floor system guarantees an efficient heating and cooling system. The choice of natural materials for the exterior promotes a natural ‘aging’ process and a very low maintenance level: untreated reclaimed Ipe siding for natural resistance to decay & weathering; reclaimed wood window & door framing with 1’ insulated glass units.
Prefabrication helped us to make the Dub Residence an affordable intelligent building with 6 weeks construction time.
About
The integration of the existing building with the new 11 story steel & glass structure, will instigate a mediation between past and present. In the narrow crease rising between the two structures a set of cantilevering balconies will juxtapose and differentiate between the old and the new, the urban and the private, thus inserting an interactive space into an otherwise neutral streetscape. The Greenwich building has as its main feature a fully custom and innovative glass curtain wall, a light suspended waterfall of insulated bent glass panels, the first of its kind.
About
Wrapping itself over and along an existing renovated six-story warehouse, the GW 497 building creates a suspended glass waterfall on the edge of New York City’s SoHo district. Eleven stories in height, the structure defines itself as a reinterpretation of the city’s strict building setback regulations. A process of mathematical inflection of the glass planes was introduced to provide a system that would transform the segmented façade into a more continuous set of glass ripples, thus creating a folded vertical landscape of glass and steel.
The 3200 s.f. Schein Loft is located on the eighth floor of the building, above the existing warehouse. The interior spaces are arranged as a series of overlapping zones rather than enclosed rooms. This open layout, in addition to the windows that are on all sides of the unit, welcomes a relationship to the outside and emphasizes views of the city.
Terraces are located on the East and West façades, one extending from the master bedroom and the other from the residence’s generous living and dining space. The latter, which overlooks the Hudson River towards the West, is accessed through the faceted glass curtain wall. Natural [west] sunlight floods the interior living spaces through this side of the building, allowing for passive solar energy to be gained by the concrete floor in the wintertime. This double-glazed façade acts not only as an impressive viewport to the city but is in fact a highly insulating element for the home. Two layers of ¼” glass with heat-absorbing low-e film on the outside layer make for a quiet internal environment and for a stable climate with little additional heating and cooling. The lighting, ceiling fans and the window shades, which react to climactic changes, are efficiently controlled by an intelligent home system.
The interior spaces are intended to be comfortable and relaxing, withdrawing the residents from the busy urban environment below. Natural materials inundate the spaces while the spine, a sculptural structure that runs through the loft, defines boundaries softly rather than rigidly and provides an aesthetic language that is casual and warm. The structure is composed of a thin black metal frame and recycled bogwood veneer, an oakwood that, after having been buried in peat bogs and preserved from decay, is naturally stained by tannins in a blond and black pattern.
As the main artery of the loft, the spine distributes the private spaces adjacent to its organic structure and moves light and air from one end of the residence to the other. It holds a freely suspended ceiling plane, which provides cooling, heating and fresh air, thanks to a built-in humidifier and air purification system. The music room, guest bathroom, master bedroom and adjacent bathroom grow from this smooth and softly lit axis.
Essentially an extension of the living quarters, the master bathroom has a spa-like and escapist quality, complete with overflow bath and steam shower. Other interior features include a 7 ft long fireplace, built from materials from local stone quarries, and art storage areas that are integrated into the anatomy of the residence, either as extensions of the bogwood structure or as spaces concealed by pivoting walls that seamlessly blend into the space.
All these elements combined - the environmental, spatial and aesthetic considerations – make of the Schein Loft a most adequate place for finely-tuned living, a sense of balance and order permeating the whole.
About
Located in Philadelphia’s dynamic Northern Liberties neighborhood, The Q Tower is a 24-unit tower with an elevated ground floor world-class restaurant. The building occupies a previously vacant lot and continues the catalytic growth that the area is currently experiencing. The building has been developed as a ‘smart’ tower, with integrated systems reactive to its inhabitants. Our collaboration with Ted Selker of the Context Aware Computing Lab at MIT Media Lab is aimed toward integrating interactive living environments, developing the tower as a ‘learning’ structure. The MIT Media lab is recognized for its work in creating environments that use sensors and artificial intelligence to create so-called virtual sensors, adaptive models of users to create keyboard-less computer scenarios. Sensor technologies will facilitate the interaction of the users with the tower as a unit: RFID controlled ‘contactless’ fast-pass access, robotic storage, smart controls, with sensors for lighting, sound, and air-conditioning all increase ease of use and energy-efficiency. The collaboration has produced a wide range of innovations in the building systems: an in-car Smart Pass allows automatic parking access, will register the delivery ‘Smart Closets,’ and give feedback to a virtual doorman. All this will make the tower a responsive structure, easy to inhabit.
Each living unit has been designed to be ‘special’ to its inhabitant. Algorithmic rule sets allocate room type and variation based on programmatic relationships, transparency percentage, and change in transition angles. All possible room transitions—experienced here as potential windows—are made available as an algorithmic set. Each potential transition is considered before the optimal window subset is chosen and the next decision tree is started. All trees are looping and linked, and are therefore affected by both past and future decisions. The result is an envelope that is able to respond fluidly to both the dynamic programmatic conditions within the building and to itself, re-thinking the relationship of window and façade to allow them to be integral to one another. The FTF—or file-to-factor—method was developed so that single continuous metal sheets can be shaped by computer-driven equipment according to algorithmically generated geometries, which are generated in a parametric software. This approach permits the structures to be modeled and easily fabricated, translating into reasonable costs.
As environmental concerns increase, so too must we increase our responsible use of natural resources. Q-Tower is off the grid, using geo-thermal energy, smart lighting, and cooling controls on sensors. The use of local, recycled materials—glass-asphalt, recycled aluminum—and intelligent appliances further reduces the use of energy and resources.
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