My design for the new National Archives building responds to the CAPITheticAL Brief (view here) in the following ways:
How would 21st century social, political and environmental factors influence the nature [of the city]?
The new National Archives building is a representation of the evolution of social, political and environmental ideals and values of contemporary society. It's strong adherence to the importance of innovation (political driver) and information (social value) are depicted through the building's form as well as function, and the pods allude strong connotations of environmental issues such as climate change, global warming, environmental protection, and sustainable growth (taking into account the limits of our environment while building our economy). Sustainable building materials and systems also reflect the social and environmental values of the 21st century.
What ideas would drive its design and development?
Design development has been driven by the notion of change and growth. The importance of new values (i.e. innovation and information) replacing outdated traditions. The essential adherence to sustainable design practices, systems, and materials. The need to incite feelings of nationalism and pride in the public. The need to address the importance of memory and history; perspective and story; past, present and future.
Can the design and location of [a city] influence clarity, compassion and productivity in the thinking of Governments and political representatives?
The design of the new National Archives is focused around the (hypothetical) new national values of information and innovation. This influences Government thinking as freedom of information and inclusion of teaching facilities, as well as the political media interaction and the aim to inform the public of political proceedings forces political representatives to clarify their arguments and ideas due to their projected transparency.
What influence would climate change have?
Climate change affects the way the building is designed and constructed. In order to maximise the energy efficiency of the building, and minimise its impact on the environment, many systems have been included in the design:
- thermal mass to insulate and keep the building cool in summer, warm in winter, thus lowering energy usage
- shading devices protect against heat and glare
- glazing maximises natural lighting, lowering dependence on artificial lighting
- rooftop gardens insulate
- atriums provide natural light channels and ventilation outlets
- courtyards full of trees promote natural cross ventilation
- rainwater collection and reuse facilities
- solar panels on roof provide energy for archives
- low embodied energy materials include rammed earth, bamboo flooring and recycled glass, aluminium and steel
- zero VOC and low toxic interior finishes
- energy efficient appliances and low-flicker lighting
- water saving appliances and dual flush toilets
Can the design of [a city] influence the life and work of its residents?
The design of the archives influences the life of its staff and visitors through the implementation of strategies that increase their quality of life while on the premises. These include the periodic break-out spaces, courtyards and rooftop gardens brimming with greenery to heighten rest and relaxation (and therefore enhancing productivity). The implementation of new technologies provide a platform to absorb new information, while inspiring the discovery of new ideas and innovations.
In the above questions, the brief refers to the design of the new capital city. The responses have been targeted towards the design of the new National Archives as a city was not designed in this project.
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