4 Main Ingredients
Initial Design Strategy
Reference
Definition of the modules
Topological Map
Grasshopper Workflow
Morphological Step by Step
Stadium
Buffer Zone
Residential
Material Choice
Three structural materials—concrete, steel, and timber—were evaluated based on mass and carbon emissions. Timber emerged as the optimal choice:
- Up to 85% lower carbon emissions than concrete
- Approximately 60% lighter than concrete
Structural and Buoyancy Analysis
For the floating components, floating pontoons were selected as the primary support system.
A portion of the timber structure was analyzed under vertical loads to determine:
- Total structural mass
- Maximum displacement
The resulting reaction force under the central column was then used in conjunction with Archimedes’ Principle to estimate the required immersed height of the pontoons, calculated to be approximately 1.5 meters.
Environmental Resilience
Orientation and Envelope Studies
The study revealed that South and East orientations, combined with low window ratios, minimize annual energy loads. These findings directly informed the placement and orientation of the residential aggregation around the pitch.
Residential Energy Demand
The annual energy demand for a residential unit was calculated at 550 kWh/m², with cooling identified as the dominant load throughout the year.
On-site Energy Production
To offset cooling demand, mono-crystalline photovoltaic panels were installed on the roofs. When extended to the entire aggregation:
- Total on-site electricity production ≈ 780,000 kWh/year
- Offsets nearly 40% of the total cooling load
Additionally, façade solar radiation analysis shows a reduction of over 30% compared to a simple box, validating the environmental strategy.
Parametrization of the Bowl
Plan Colour Coded
Ground Floor Plan
Masterplan
Conceptual Section
Iterations of aggregation
Test Scenarios
Conclusion
