Week 11 final submission A3.2: Analytical Models of One Project

Hydrophile: Hydrodynamic Green Roof | Bioscience Innovation Center 2010 

Servo Architects

With inspiration drawn from the shell of the 'Namib desert beetle', a contradicting concept is discovered in relation to hydrophilic and hydrophobic attributes which assist in its ability to collect, and direct the natural flow of water. Servo integrates this unique design concept into its project Hydrophile Bioscience Innovation Centre where the same notion was portrayed in the form of a hydrodynamic vegetated roof. This organic roof focuses on supporting existing, “biotope structures and habitat networks and promoting biodiversity in the local environment” [1]. It also draws onto the perception of depth in design to develop a structure that is multi-functional, and aims to generate a space that enables viewers to experience and collaborate with the structure from multiple vantage points, ranging from above, within and below. In such a dynamic design, which blends nature and architectural form, it is vital to vary the thicknesses of the structures' foundations to depend on the load forced on the configuration from above. It is due to the roof being a habitat for local plants and other flora, which can be submerged into water. However, this depends on the plants proximity in relation to the declining slopes, which aims to accumulate rainwater overtime for future use.

Section showing the varying thicknesses in the structure.

Visual representation and labeling of materials.

A sense of interaction between the structure and the surrounding landscape is gained through the engagement of viewers with various vantage points, whether it be above, between or below. Each point of access allows viewers to experience the changes in form and varying depths. Above being its developed architecture that mimics the outer landscape through the inclusion of particular forms of dense vegetation. Between is the designated auditorium space and specialised areas intended for the, "cultivation of vegetation in semi climatically-controlled microclimates" [2]. Below is the interior, where people are able to interact with the bulging roof form that warps towards the ground with the smaller protuberant forms that emit water, air or light. Ultimately, this ability to experience the structure from various perspectives allows for a greater understanding of the overall form.

Electronic representation of parametric
design capabilities

To make such complex geometries Servo utilises, “highly controlled algorithmic and machinic processes” [3], whilst also merging into this design approach, a combination of digital and analog techniques of design and fabrication, thus, ensuring efficiency in the design process.

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r e f e r e n c e s

• [1] [2] Arch2o.com, "Bioscience Innovation Center – Hydrophile | Servo“ (2012-2015). Accessed: 20 May 2015. <http://www.arch2o.com/bioscience-innovation-center-hydrophile-servo/>
• [3] Servo, Los Angeles. Accessed 16 May 2015.<http://www.servo-la.com/index.php?/projects/hydrophile/>
• Designbuzz, "SERVO bioscience innovation center to exhibit extensive green roof" April 7 2011. Accessed: 20 May 2015. <http://www.designbuzz.com/servo-bioscience-innovation-center-to-exhibit-extensive-green-roof/>