Algenosphere: Case Study 02Outdoor Classroom

Nicolas Gotzev


This researched the potential impacts of creating a much more closed volume than previously tested, finding the truest form of the grid shell structurally and relieving the openings with precision. The side facing the river holds two openings, while the FDR Drive side holds two. The arrangement is with asymmetry in order to break wind paths and create pockets of purified oxygen within the area. 



Physical model of gridshell structure 

Site Analysis and Plan


The plan is divided into three sections; a viewing area at the northern most tip, a rest area in the center, and a classroom space with tables and seating to study the algae photosynthetic process. CFD studies overlayed onto the plan show green spaces as the oxygenated areas with the slowest air movement. Once again, the direct sunlight analysis was preformed to all the panels to ensure the most efficent panel thickness based on the needs of the growth for each.  




Roof Plan and Solar Analysis to decide panel inflation



Section Properties
The form is pulled inwards through shortening the length of specific gridhshell members in order to create more intimate and oxygenated spaces.

This is done along with moving entry and view points toward corner areas in order to create a closer and slower airflow with the oxygen nozzles from the panels being closer to the user’s heads.

Roof Plan and Solar Analysis to decide panel inflation




Long Section showing Evolving Form



All Images








Darrick Borowski
Visiting Associate Professor dborow64@pratt.edu
darrick@dba.nyc
718.399.4305

http://darrickborowski.com
http://are-a.net
http://materialphenomenal.com
Mycoshield:Sarah Cawley
Brianna Martinez-Burns
Saahir Lakhani

Algenosphere:Aarav Schroff
Nicolas Gotzev
Mehek Usman
Terraflow:Brynn Lucky
Vaughn Carson
Olivia Su

Urban Osmosis:Zophia Li
Tia Thomspon
Kyle Fish


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