Yay I survived the semester!!

I'm the one on the right by the way.

Major Project Final Posters

I found that this project allowed me to understand that by taking inspiration from a famous architect, in my case Louis Khan, I was exposed to some new and innovative construction methods in order to create architecure as opposed to a construction. By looking at the full section of the office building I fully researched all aspects, including the footing system, suspended first floor, roofing and enveloping assembly. Although I am a liitle worried that this research is not fully conveyed through the posters I feel that I have learn't alot for myself.

Globe Torquay

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The details above are showing how structural elements can be disguised to be aesthetically pleasing. The vertical columns do in fact have steel Universal Columns in the middle to support the structure however the columns on the angle are purely to look good. A technique I am fond of as I think it is very effective – it almost makes the building look like it is unable to support itself. The columns resemble the ruins of a roman temple yet transposed in a modern form. The detail also shows how the columns are supporting the Universal Beams as well as integrating the down pipe, which can usually spoil a design.

Really liked the way in which the three different materials
(Glass, wooden board cladding and plaster cladding) are complementing each other in this picture. The joining has being concealed in order to achieve a smooth, clean and striking finish.

Below shows the concrete column – with the joint to the ceiling concealed by the external cladding. It is clear to see the sealant between the two which allows for movement – either contraction or expansion – of the concrete. This movement is dependant on the temperature and the loads imposed on the column.

Deakin Engineering Centre

Located on the Warn Ponds Campus, the Engineering Centre is one of architectural innovation. I am particularly fond of the way the characteristics of different glazing on the windows have been combined to create a really engaging façade to the structure. This is exemplified at ground level where triangular panes of both reflective and tinted glass are used to create some really interesting reflections.

The picture below shows how the structure is exposed both on the outside and the interior. The steel framing forms the geometric shapes of the windows whilst the steel universal column supporting the roofing structure can be seen on the inside. The aluminum façade to the building casts dramatic shadows during the different stages of the sun movement path.

The detail below shows how a Universal Beam has being engineering to fit the angle of the roof to act as a rafter. Diagonal bracing is incorporated to resist the lateral wind loads. The steel column is attached to the wall via girts which are welded and bolted to cleats.

The Universal Beam here is connected to the ceiling by ‘C’ girts which again are welded and bolted to cleats. This has then being covered by 20mm plasterboard.

Shop Drawings from Spotlight Development

I was able to return to the Spotlight Development site located at the Belmont / Breakwater inter-junction in order to meet with the project manager, Chris. This was really insightful into the construction of concrete tilt up panels. I was able to determine that the size of my strip footing for the major project would be 600mm x 600mm with 6-12TM. This was based on similar sized panels framing the structure of the retail blocks which would in turn have similar loads as those in my showroom structure.

The drawings also demonstrate possible ways of connecting the RC Slab on Ground with the wall panel using Cast-In Plates. One of the other details also shows how a suspended slab could be attached to the panel using a dowel and ferrule system – a possible method that could be employed for the major project.

Straw Bale Construction

I know this isn't an appropriate technique for a long spanning commercial building however the drainage system was mentioned in the lecture. I am also keen to research how it works as my parents have just submitted plans to build their own straw bale house.

http://groovygreen.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=267&Itemid=57

Building With Straw

Written by Michael d'Estries

Monday, 14 August 2006

As long as appropriate moisture control measures are taken, straw bale walls can last as long as any other conventional systems. However overhangs are required in order to keep the rain (if it ever comes) of the walls. These overhangs should be about 45cm and the bales should also be raised 60cm off the foundations to reduce capillary action of ground moisture. Cement is mixed with lime to increase the permable properties and allow the straw to ‘breathe’ and release any moisture. Rebar is also imperative to stop the straw from getting wet and structurally failing. Rebar is a metal used to spike the bales together when fitting them as a wall. Flashing is required at the top of the walls to allow the water to divert the water away from the straw.

Major Project Floorplan

This is the floor plan I am proposing for the Major Project based on the architectural influences of Louis Kahn. It clearly shows where the panels are placed and how the interior space works. The concrete panel sizes are 2500W x 6200H x 150D and so I will have to research the most appropriate footing system to cater for the loads. I have designed the interior walls in accordance of Kahn’s principle to integrate the ‘served’ and ‘servant’ spaces. The benefit of using load bearing tilt up construction allows for large spanning areas free of columns. The site is large enough for the panels to be cast in situe and therfore minimises cost and energy required for transporation. The 5m x 5m section I am looking at in detail for the project is highlighted as on of the connecting panel joints running through the ground floor, mezzanine layer and roofing system.