The purpose of our project is to develop a model of hospital building that can be adapted to different conditions of location, size and the functional program. The aim is to develop a proper prototype, to be synthesized in a generative system, which produces a flexible result, adaptable to different needs. The building will preserve its formal and functional identity even in different specific conditions.
Overall view
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
We can image this prototype as a peculiar type of organism, with its own physiological and morphological characteristics, that will make it able to adapt to many site conditions, as well as future extensions. For this reason we have been looking for a conceptual and formal reference in biology, trying to find a model that would have helped us defining our prototype. In biological structures, in fact, the logical functional aspects are combined with the aesthetic formal ones, up to merge. In biological systems form is always the result of the optimized functional processes that involve the organism, defining their aspect. For this reason the “organic” form, in a meticulous meaning, is always a functional form.
Schematic view.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
In the bone tissues the displacement of cells forms articulated structures, characterized by the repetition of solid and hollow patterns, making bones rigid and strong, but, at the same time, light. In corals, the branched structure of the organism allows it to optimize its contact with water, and the development of the processes it needs for surviving. The project, imitating the logic of bone tissues and structures, is based on organic aggregation logic, which basic element is a simple cell, within which the logic of the entire system is contained.
Reference images
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
The basic cell is a branched element, articulated in three branches displaced in a y-like form. The three branches, the same in size, start from a central point, coinciding with the centre of the circle within which it is inscribed. Every branch ending is a potential hook point within the first cell and a second one, that, depending on its size and orientation defines the whole geometry. From the basic cell it’s possible to create open geometries, allowing an optimal natural lighting and a direct relation with the surroundings. Multiplying the number of cells it’s possible to create closed courtyards that help the spaces organization.
Aggregation scheme.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
From the interior circulation point of view, every cell is characterized by a variable dimension of the branches, contained within 30 a mt maximum radius. In this way, placing safety staircases on the branches endings, and the elevator core in the middle, the circulation diagram is defined. Joining a cell with another, it’s possible to reduce the number of staircases, because they can share the staircase placed near the joint. Following this logic, whatever the final geometry will be, the circulation system is automatically solved. In the same way, also the horizontal compartments are easily defined. In fact, two branches of a single cell can define a fire protection compartment, and the third will define another, that can be joined with the next cell, creating a compartments sequence with a maximum 30 mt long safety route.
Circulation scheme.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
As an example, we defined a typical functional scheme. We decided to develop a quite extensive model, made of three stories high blocks, considering that a better natural lighting and ventilation, as well as a better relation with the surrounding landscape will make this prototype more exclusive and pleasant. Anyway, if circumstances will require it, many other models can be created, even with 4 or 5 floors blocks.
Functional scheme.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
Also the façade follows cellular aggregation logics and It is made of two layers with a technical space in between for maintenance. The interior one is a functional façade, along witch glazed and walled surfaces will alternate, depending on natural light and ventilation requirements of the corresponding interior spaces. The second one is an architectural skin, which transparency and solidity is characterized by the repetition of a single diamond-like module, that will be enlarged or reduced in dimension, defining a gradient like texture.
Nighttime view of the entrance patio.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
The level of transparency of each part of the exterior skink can be designed to regulate the access of natural light, depending both on the exposure of the façade and functional requirements.
Diagram of the fachade.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.
Overall view.
© Polistudio A.e.s. Società Di Ingegneria . Published on April 17, 2014.