Description:
In a call for a Sustainable New York City, Mayor Bloomberg stated:
“Given that buildings account for more than 80 percent of all...
This proposal alludes to the concept of a glass skin clasping onto a vestigial temple.
The first layer of skin aims to protect from turbulent winds and veiling solar glare. The second layer is composed of light, it reignites the pride of the original structure. The third layer is the replacement (regeneration) of the current windows system with a higher energy efficiency model painted in red.
At first glance, it could seem as if no transformation took place. The reversed glass balustrades hangs off three capped extruded steel wall posts. The minimalist approach allows for standard modulation of component in order to reduce the financial and environmental impact of the project.
At night, the building takes on a new boastful glow. The detailing of the columns and the indentations of the entablature are highlighted to catch the eyes of wandering tourists. This ethereal layer easily slips through the glass skin above.
Replacing the windows serves two purposes; it emphasizes the arches of the frame rather than the columns and it improves the thermal performance of the building in a simple and intuitive way.
Together, these architectural modifications aim to give new life, and some dignity, to a decaying edifice. They introduce realistic and contemporary methods to solve common problems.
by
Samuel Arsenault-Brassard
in response to community challenge
REskin
DesignByMany is a challenge based design technology community. Users post challenges to the community along with their design source files. The community can then post responses with their own source files to solve the challenge. They can also comment on the challenge and interact with other designers throughout the process.