OUR PHASE 2 WEBSITE IS HERE: http://www.wix.com/chi_coal/xdarchitects
PROJECT PHASE I
In this project we explored the spatial potential of planes. By carving out a void through a series of planes, space comes to be defined by not the walls but the arrangement of the openings on each plane. The size and shape of the void directly influence the amount and quality of light, which penetrates into the space through the planes. One can see and feel the outer environment, yet it is not quite outside nor inside.
A linear structure is chosen because such a form allows the most penetration into the space. The six people unit lays flat on the south side along Wabash St. while the two people residence slopes up onto the six people residence and the four people residence onto the two. This arrangement ensures a relatively equal view of the neighbourhood and exposure to the sun for each unit. All the rooms are oriented towards the south side, ensuring optimal solar heat gain in winter and natural day lighting for all occupants.
Our design aims to create a living space that responds spontaneously to the environment, recycling resources as well as producing energy on site, leading to a self sustaining habitat. The electric energy generated by the building surfaces of all three residences are collectively stored and redistributed to balance between the likelihood of having excess in one residence and the risk of shortage in another. The series of planes interlaced with voids allow natural ventilation throughout the house and provide shading. The windows with embedded photovoltaic cells on the south façade can be opened by the residents in accordance to the sun angle for maximum solar energy gain. Solar heat absorbed by the walls is retained in the thermal mass underneath the slope of the building such that warmth is radiated at night to the rooms above.
