Guided by ecological principles, this landmark learning center project provides a hands-on educational experience to study nature’s converging eco-systems while ensuring the stable and harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.
During the conceptual design phase, Atelier Ten guided the performative design of the project’s envelope, advanced energy conserving systems, daylight optimization, and water reuse strategies.
The design includes an envelope that maximizes daylight availability but is highly insulated. Its conditioning strategy, comprised of earth ducts, ground source heat pumps, displacement ventilation, and natural ventilation substantially reduces energy consumption. To further reduce carbon emissions, electricity will be provided by on-site renewable generation.
The project has the potential to substantially reduce potable water use by using efficient fixtures, capturing, filtering, and storing stormwater that falls onsite, and storing and re-using greywater.
