The need to design sustainable buildings has never been so important than today. Since buildings themselves consume huge amounts of electricity owing to heating and cooling requirements, they significantly contribute to greenhouse emissions and waste. But WOHA, a Singapore-based design and architectural firm, is a company with a difference, aiming to construct sustainable commercial structures that try to leave as minimum an impact on the environment as possible. In 2009, the firm completed work on Singapore’s School of the Arts, a perforated structure that provides natural ventilation and light to all areas inside.
The novel design features two visually connected levels called Backdrop and Blank Canvas with the bottom stratum used for public communication and the upper layer meant for safe interaction. While there is a division between the two, the visual connection ensures that they are bonded. The Backdrop serves as a podium that houses a concert hall, black box theater, drama theater and smaller performing spaces. It is through this level that the school communicates with the public. The smaller spaces are naturally ventilated leaving the need for ACs far behind. In addition, there is a civic amphitheater built under trees.
The Black Canvas, meanwhile, serves as the school’s educational area. All classrooms are studios are well ventilated with plenty of natural light. Green facades serve as an air filtration system to keep away dust and excessive glare while acoustic ceilings absorb outside noise.
WOHA has designed the school’s building in such a way so as to maximize not just light and ventilation but also to facilitate the flow of gentle breeze. The rooftop is home to a recreational park and a 400-meter running track, further providing students with an outlet for their energy.
WOHA’s design has been lauded by many. The firm is well known for designing and constructing sustainable buildings and has even received awards for its past projects.
Via: Archdaily
