ROSY BOA - COMPREHENSIVE STUDIO
// Completion Date: January - April, 2017
// Project Location: Foxborough, Massachusetts
// Northeastern University Comprehensive Studio: (Instructor) David Fannon
// Team: Ray Lau + Moshe Porter
The objective of this studio is to investigate an architectural system. A structure that is supported by the tension of cables has advantages such as greater resilience over the traditional structure system that relies on compression. For a suspended structure, orientation is important. After conducting wind studies, we found that the majority of the summer wind is coming from the East and winter wind is coming from the West, and hence oriented the tube in the North-South direction for stability.
We conducted site analyses of topography, traffic, ecology, waterway, underground systems, social network activities, etc., to help understand the situation in the nearby town Foxborough and the existing issues of Patriot Place.
The existing train system is underdeveloped, causing significant traffic congestion locally and regionally, especially truck delivery delays at the junctions of I-95 in Boston and I-195 in Providence. According to research from Cambridge Systematics, the annual total delayed hours for truck deliveries is over a million and four hundred thousand hours.
The existing creek east to the stadium is connected to the Neponset Reservoir and is a 1% annual flood zone.
The site is built for events instead of urban uses, mainly in the form of car parks, the isolated Patriot Place is only used during games or concerts, and is “almost empty on normal work days” - quote from Jean Gerry (worker in Patriot Place).
Utilizing the Kangaroo physics simulator within the Grasshopper environment enabled us to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the frame's form, particularly in relation to the tension exerted by the supporting cables. The accompanying diagram illustrates a series of sectional modules that represent potential design strategies for our project.
One of the primary strategies we explored involves the application of a semi-monocoque frame as an insulation solution. By leveraging the principles of convection, we strategically positioned mechanical and usable spaces to optimize the efficiency of both cooling and heating systems. This thoughtful arrangement not only enhances thermal performance but also contributes to a sustainable design.
To further innovate the design, I developed a concept that involves bisecting the tubular form vertically and shifting the resulting halves to create accessible connections to the ground level. This approach can be applied to the interior floor frames as well, allowing for the establishment of varied spatial spans. The exposed halves of the structure will provide unique viewing opportunities along circulation paths, enriching the user experience. Additionally, areas deemed less desirable for occupancy can be repurposed for mechanical applications, thereby maximizing the functionality and efficiency of the design.
Overall, this exploration highlights the importance of integrating structural form with environmental considerations, creating a harmonious balance between aesthetic appeal and practical utility.
After thermal insulation considerations, gaps in excess of 5 feet between frame intervals were created to allow space for amenities. I developed a total of 20 modules that can be populated in zones for its needs. The most well received modules are: toilet stalls, reception desks, individual seating and bar table. These modular spaces can be readjusted into different programs when needed, including, in most extreme cases, jail cell spaces.
After thermal insulation considerations, gaps in excess of 5 feet between frame intervals were created to allow space for amenities. We developed a total of 20 modules that can be populated in zones for its needs. The most well-received modules are: toilet stalls, reception desks, individual seating and bar table. These modular spaces can be readjusted into different programs when needed, including, in most extreme cases, jail cell spaces.
