we-designs.org: urban formation - sustainable village, canada

‘urban-formation’, vancouver, canada by we designs
all images courtesy we designs


through the use of hydro-sun collection and the careful selection of environmentally
conscious materials, guildford’s ‘urban-formation’ by we designs upholds a sustainable
standpoint without being outwardly green.

located at the corner of 152nd street and 104th avenue in surrey, vancouver canada, the
intersection is known for its heavy shopping and busy traffic areas which greatly affect
the current site. thus, this proposed design offers a space for recreation, leisure activities,
and tranquility, with the added bonus of collecting energy (both sun and rain) using the
proposed louvre system integrated within the design of the building and walkways.





by re-landscaping the area and providing a buffer system to reduce the incoming noise
from the main streets, the intention of the project is to create a 'zen' space to balance
the bustling atmosphere of the corner intersection. parallel to the green areas, the louvre
system acts like a power generating plant—which produces five times the electricity in
order to power the entire site including the proposed theatre space, lighting for the
pedestrians in the park, recreational areas, as well as, the spaces for cultural entertainment
and common events within the urban-plan.





the multilevel platforms intertwine over the entire site like an organic and interactive
organism using a series of connecting ramps, stairs and bridges. each platform is
covered with photovoltaic rain roofs, producing energy and providing shelter against
various weather conditions. the skin of the theatre, inspired by the coat of arms emblem
of surrey is photovoltaic as well. additionally, this new network around the theatre contains
wind turbines, which are able to generate energy from multi-directional wind movements.

finally, on the main level are big park areas for cyclists and pedestrians. the site offers many
sport activities like biking, ice-skating, running and basketball, while the main building on
the corner of 104th avenue and 152nd street together with the flag present a new gateway
function for surrey.






rooftop




aerial view of rooftop






the design is intended to be constructed of bio-luminum and bio-glass window panels.
the bio-luminum tiles are made from salvaged parts of retired airplanes and are an excellent
long-lasting and high -strength material. bio-glass is engineered from recycled glass with no
additives or colorants. both materials contribute towards leed certification.

the flooring and the recreational platforms are made of british columbia's four predominant
hardwood species: red alder, bigleaf maple, western white birch and trembling aspen. these
species are native to the area, and create unique intimate spaces for picnics, social interactions
and a place for relaxation after visiting the shopping mall.



exploded view of structure




exploded view of structure




exploded view of structure








plan


project credits:
studio: we-designs.org
project architect: jasmin dieterle
project team: wendy w fok, jenny chow, sue g biolsi, vasilis raptis (intern)