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)