Building performance is achieved by much more than just one system. The detailed design of the components such as the building facade are inextricably linked to the building configuration. To achieve optimum building performance we need to consider the strategic arrangement of the internal use of the building and how it relates to the building skin. Making design decisions that will change the building configuration to address the shortcomings identified in the due diligence report (from prior assignment) and develop strategies to address the way the building is used in order to improve overall building performance and human well being.
The facade consists of vertical shading elements following a cosine curve with each batten varying in length, designed in Grasshopper and Rhino 3D CAD software. The facade provides permeability to allow for natural light to diffuse within the office, however due to the alternating offset battens sufficiently provides shading against solar heat gain and reduces radiation penetrating into the internal spaces. The varying lengths allow early morning sun to fill the internal spaces of the building, required in winter in order to maintain thermal comfort. Each batten is 200mm × 200mm, spread out in 859.475 mm increments from centre. The facade utilise laminated glass with a low-e coating to mitigate excess solar radiation. The Timber batten materiality was considered for a softer street presences, whilst also having low embodied energy.
