Architecture project // Thermal Mass Integration and Triple-Pane Comfort in a Community Lookout Tower

Thermal Mass Integration and Triple-Pane Comfort in a Community Lookout Tower

Authors:

Kateryna Gerasymova, Elvin Kaunda, Mehek Rahman

Incorporating triple-pane windows and thermal mass, the tower enhances energy efficiency while providing lookout points for community engagement within a conservation area.

5 key facts about this project

Elevated lookout points provide panoramic views of the surrounding farmland.

Vegetation-covered tunnels enhance the transition between interior and exterior spaces.

Thermal mass materials are integrated into the design for energy efficiency.

Triple-pane windows reduce heat loss and optimize solar gain.

The structure serves as a community hub for social interaction and engagement.

General keywords

vortex tower conservation landmark community lookout nature sustainability functionality experience

Project specific keywords

lookout points vegetation tunnels triple-pane thermal mass community hub

The Vortex Tower sits in a conservation area, designed to connect with its natural environment. It serves as both a landmark and a space for community engagement, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the landscape. The design focuses on blending indoor and outdoor experiences, inviting users to appreciate their surroundings while interacting with the architecture.

Visual Engagement

The tower includes lookout points positioned to offer expansive views of the nearby farmland. These viewpoints encourage visitors to take in the changing beauty of the landscape throughout the seasons. Tunnels draped with vegetation guide people through the building, creating a natural transition that enhances the connection between the structure and the scenery.

Functional Spaces

Inside the Vortex Tower, spaces are arranged to support comfort and functionality. The upper floor serves as a flexible area for resting, socializing, and hosting gatherings. This design fosters community, making the structure a welcoming location for interaction and shared experiences among visitors.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key feature of the design, with careful choices made regarding materials and architectural strategies. Triple-pane windows are used to improve energy efficiency by limiting heat loss during colder months and maximizing solar gain in warmer seasons. Overhangs are included to block direct sunlight in the summer, keeping the interior cooler. Insulating materials and thermal mass are part of the construction, helping to lower energy usage and reduce the building's environmental impact.

Details of Integration

The overall design of the Vortex Tower emphasizes a balance between creativity and care for the environment. The arrangement of spaces and the chosen materials work together to create an experience that highlights the strong connection between the building and its natural setting. The greenery covering the tunnels not only softens the interface between nature and architecture but also enhances the visitor's sensory journey, allowing the outdoors to enrich the experience within the tower.