From Finer Details to New Elements | Detail Research

During our Design Process, I decided to research some construction details that may be relevant to our design. Specifically, I focussed on construction methods similar structures were built upon, in addition to potential aesthetics that may supplement our current design. In this post I will be elaborating further on my findings, and how they have informed personal proposals for the design.

Precedent 1 | Conference Centre by Selgacano

Going into this process, Ethan and Jien requested me to research Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) construction. Due to Jien’s recent trip to Spain, he was especially interested in transforming our ‘field-defining’ roof planes into light, semi-transparent structures. In particular, he wanted me to research Selgacano’s Conference Centre; an ETFE-clad structure he had visited on his trip.

Conference Centre Exterior – A frosted ETFE shell envelopes the colourful conference centre interior; externally expressing the interior functions of the building. Simultaneously, the shell also acts as a field for the conference centre; revealing similarities with our current design

While I was able to find details for this building, I was unable to find an English version; limiting my understanding of the construction. Despite this, there were some elements that stood out in drawing:

Firstly, the ETFE panels need to be connected to a structural frame; meaning a continuous ETFE structure was impossible. In Selgacano’s case however, the structure was transformed into a characteristic web pattern; revealing potential liberties in translating structure into ornament.

Secondly, the ETFE structure may require an immediate connection to a primary structure. In Selgacano’s case, the ETFE structure loosely traces the interior structure; connecting at the nearest points. Depending on if this connection can be applied to pilotis, this may be a challenge to implement into our current design.

(Conference Centre ETFE Structure to Interior Detail)

Overall, I found this project to be a novel precedent for a ‘field-defining’ structure. The transparency of the ETFE Panels may further reinforce our Digital Library as a learning hub, especially at night; lighting up like a Beacon for the University of Auckland’s learning culture. While I have doubts on how this structural design can translate into our current design, I am interested in the aesthetic possibilities of this element.

Precedent 2 | Madrid Campus Extension by Alberto Campo Baeza

Considering the roofs as large, unsupported superstructures, I researched some construction methods that could make this structure possible. Baeza’s Multi-sport Pavilion and Classroom exemplifies the truss structure as a possible solution.

Campus Extension Interior – Trusses support the roof for large uninterrupted spans; maintaining a clean industrial aesthetic.

Campus Extension Details – Primarily consisting of I-Profile Steel Beams, the structure has been designed to seamlessly fit into the window frame structure; transforming structure into ornament. The trusses connect to the top two levels of Steel Beams. I wonder if this could be a parameter to decrease the height of the trusses, and to what extent this can be done for our current design.

What I find both interesting and challenging is how a Truss system can be implemented into a non-flat roof structure. Would another structural element expand from the trusses, or could the trusses be curved? I would be interested to see the structural possibilities of this gesture.

Precedent 3 | Timmerhuis by OMA

Interested in implementing semi-transparent elements into the library, I discovered OMA’s Timmerhuis; a city hall in Rotterdam. I was fascinated by the blurred nature of the glass elements; especially in how they may be applied into our current design’s planar language.

Timmerhuis Details – Inside the building are several different partition types; some acting as storage/lockers for the occupants. These semi-transparent elements are auxiliary to a Hollow-Section Steel Structure; allowing service facilities like wires to be seamlessly routed.

I was particularly interested in this project for its play on surveillance. The semi-transparent facades limit the clarity of the objects behind, yet adjacent objects tease the identity and function of the spaces inside. In the context of Ethan’s draft abstract, this may be a compelling facet to explore, especially in trying to create healthy connections in a collaborative learning environment:

What is ‘healthy’ surveillance?

How can surveillance be introduced without repercussions like anxiety?

Process Notes on other precedents