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A R C H I T E C T U R E

A Place where Old and New Merges

In urban environments like Boston, where working with existing structures is common, there are typically two primary approaches: renovation or reconstruction. Our team was tasked with a renovation project aimed at preserving the historical character of the building while integrating modern elements. This approach not only highlighted the original architectural features but also ensured a harmonious transition between the traditional structure and its contemporary additions, maintaining the integrity of the existing column grid.

D A T E

Spring 2022

R O L E

Student Architectural Designer

[ C O N C E P T D I A G R A M ]

This project is organized into three steps: combining the existing structure with a new addition, bringing light into the space, and utilizing sustainable solutions. Since the site was located in the dense city block of Boston, expanding vertically on top of the existing building was inevitable. Moreover, as I began conducting a site survey in early January, I realized that the tall neighboring buildings and narrow streets of the urban environment created a windy and cold atmosphere. To bring natural light into the interior, I designed an empty void placed in the center of the building, providing the audience with a welcoming atmosphere in the business district. Finally, I wanted to incorporate sustainable solutions in my design to minimize waste and energy usage, improving both the well-being of the inhabitants and the environment. The bold design choice to add a gigantic funnel on the ceiling was intended to collect rainwater during the summer to cool the surrounding area.

[ M U L T I - P U R P O S E C O M P L E X ]

The project is organized into three distinct zones: the remaining portion of the existing building, the new addition, and the void. The separation of these zones provided me with a unique opportunity to designate specific functions for each space. The existing building is used as office space, while the new addition serves as commercial space. The void, where the existing and new structures merge, acts as a communal space for the public to create the welcoming environment.

[ S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y ]

To enhance the sustainability of the complex, two key strategies were employed: the integration of a central tower and the implementation of an advanced building skin. The central tower is designed to function as a rainwater collector, incorporating an evaporative cooling system. This system not only contributes to the building’s environmental performance but also introduces a distinctive acoustic feature, as the sound of raindrops creates an artistic auditory effect.

The building’s skin comprises two primary elements: the roof and the brick facade. The roof utilizes a dual-material approach to optimize solar energy management. It is engineered to capture sunlight when needed and to reflect excessive heat, thereby maintaining thermal efficiency. The brick facade of the new addition features translucent glass bricks, designed to mirror the existing building’s brick pattern. This facade incorporates three distinct panel types, each carefully designed to interact with natural light sources, thereby enhancing both the visual and energy performance of the building.

[ F I N A L D E S I G N ]

[ M O D E L P H O T O ]

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