MA2 Explores Green Architecture in Urban Areas

Sustainable and green strategies in urban areas require an approach that is more of a vertical expression and integration. Addressing urban density and setback requirements along with neighboring context, are challenges in architectural expression and may limit green potential.  These concerns are areas that must be addressed if the green logic and tectonic transformation will manifest in built form.  Green expression goes beyond the practical or technological based equipment in the MEP for a reduction in waste and recycled energy. It is an experience, an ecosystem, a fully integrated piece in the tectonic language.  This language is designed to invite pedestrians into the space and become an iconic node in the urban fabric.

The architectural case studies are a series of commercial building types that can be transformed into an experience while having green strategies as an outward performer.  In the case of a museum, bringing the ground level up and around the building is part of the transformation. While mid-rise office towers or mixed-use are more of a series of terraces that are tectonic in their placement. By doing so, it projects green elements onto the façade which is visible and experiential. With layered forms and components, the greening performs at multiple levels. This study is aimed at magnifying sustainable architecture and making the green component as the icon.