The project brief was to design a “skin” for the Architecture Studio Building. The proposal was to be modular in its design and help the building become more sustainable and energy efficient.
As the building itself is used as a design studio for many students a decent source of light is very important. In order to achieve an ideal working environment high levels of light are preferably obtained. The concept was to have a series of lighter-than-air devices that act as an almost “cellular” form above the Architecture Studio Building itself. These devices would be able to move and react to daylight levels around the premises in order to harness the sun’s light rays and redirect them into the building.
Much of the creative work that goes on inside the structure is of a particularly skilled level where high standards of craft take place. An under-lit studio simply would not be appropriate. Due to this the building’s energy and electricity demand is relatively high. The Intelligent Skin project provides a modular system of Light Balloons. These ultra-lightweight, helium filled devices float above the building and contain within them a sensitive system of light reflecting “mirrors” that adjust and respond to the sun’s position. This allows them to redirect and focus the natural light into the building though its skylights.
The Light Balloons will not only have the ability to redirect sunlight into the darkest parts of the building but would also store solar energy in the form of electricity. This would be used by the building’s occupants on days when the sun’s light isn’t as strong. All of this is to help the University’s studios become more environmentally friendly and also create a more favourable working atmosphere.