A pathway for energy, air, & water.
The outstretched canopy gathers solar energy & rainwater (from surrounding PV canopy network) which are stored, then distributed. A system of tanks channels captive rainwater past micro-turbines releasing latent energy on its way down, whereupon it is released into an urban grid of waterways. Flowing in the opposite direction a thermal 'stack' effect draws air up the 'trunk', drawing fresh air into the basement car park. The filigree steel structure offers habitable spaces at the top- spa, observation deck, fitness & childcare centres- that are wholly day lit and naturally ventilated.
There were 2 phases. The first involved a studio masterplan of a given business park site. PV canopies were part of the brief. The second phase then had each student allocated a unique plot in the masterplan for his own architecture. This approach encouraged increased design sensitivity & resulted in more 2-way conversations amongst students.