Re-examining My Previous Sketch

Added some info on how I see mutualism benefiting both new and old structures.  Hope it helps to explain what I am trying to accomplish.

So Abstract it is Concrete...

Here is iteration number 1.5 of my abstract, complete with thesis 2.0.  Have a read through if you will and please provide any suggestions, constructive (or destructive) criticism, and get blogging everyone.

Thesis:  Can biomimetic mutualism be applied to the development of the built environment for the benefit of existing and future structures?

Mutualism as defined by Merriam Webster is a: “beneficial association between different kinds of organisms.”  Examples of mutualistic relationships in nature are abundant and, by definition, successful for the parties involved.  Such associations can provide a new perspective through architectural theory as to how we relate buildings to each other.   

Much research has been done on the concept of parasitic buildings – additions of sorts that leech energy and resources off their hosts.  Proposed, is rethinking how architecture connects buildings and how “mutualism and its advocating of the both/and instead of the either/or forces the architect to examine both aspects of architecture and to make a more informed decision that is a mediation between the interests of the two” or more entities of, specifically, the built environment is now more prominent than ever (Workman 2004).  In employing such methodology, advancements in sustainability, retention/rejuvenation of existing buildings and newly inspired architecture will emerge.

Identifying examples of how nature solves issues through mutualism and how such solutions could be applied to the built environment is the primary objective.  The intention is to add additional space to an existing structure(s), while working within the framework of mutualism and the confines of local regulations to produce a design that not only allows for new structure(s) but also provides some benefits to the existing buildings.  Designs displaying how concepts of mutualistic biomimetics are employed is one manner of conveying the research.  Examining the potential methods to make use of mutualistic architecture is also of great benefit for future projects.  Such things as structure, aesthetics, and space can all be addressed – whether they are in regards to the existing structure or any new construction project.

As the concepts of mutualism will be heavily influenced from nature it is important to make the connection that such mutualistic relationships occur in nature to ensure that the participants survive, as well as thrive in some conditions.  This relates directly to the sustainability aspect of this research.  “If a building can continue to function effectively for an indefinite period, it is considered sustainable” and such results can be achieved through a mutualistic approach to building design (Douglas 461).  Furthermore, mutualism can aid in a building’s lifespan and thus sustainability.

Although firmly rooted in precedence in other fields, mutualism can be a foundation for architecture and building development in the future.

Sketch #1

Working through some ideas I figured I would gun out some sketches of some heritage buildings in Kamloops with some basic additions.  Here's one, currently the BDC building on Victoria and 2nd.

I think most likely my potential project will be going vertical (but things can always change).  As I have noted in one of previous posts, I think there are multiple potential benefits to addressing roof design on existing structures.  No real identifiable mutualism to speak of beyond additive roof features, overhanging on all sides to protect the building below.  There is potential for structure to be added from the building above down the exterior between the windows and doors.  However the Frieze at the top of the buildings could pose some issues to navigate around.  It should be noted my intent is to maintain the features of the existing buildings I study as much as possible, not altering them too much with proposed mutual partners.

W

Potential Thesis

Working on focusing my topic for our abstract submission.  So, here is the thesis I am proposing... for now.  I am sure things will change over the course of the next little while; as such, any comments would be greatly appreciated.

When examining buildings' relationships with one another, is it possible to employ biomimetic mutualism to aid in the development and sustainability of the built environment?

The goal is to take some examples of how living creatures interact with each other in ways that benefit all the participants and see how that could be applied to buildings to better their performance and efficiency.  Seemingly straight forward but at the same time it is becoming quite difficult to focus in on the specifics.  Much has been written in regards to building adaptation and evolution which I am sifting through at the moment - all of which is contributing to the "Information Inundation" (little term we coined last semester for one of our term projects).

Anyways, hope everyone else is rattling through their research alright and generating some good ideas.

W

Moving away from Commensalism

This post is a random stream of consciousness regarding my topic - I am trying to brainstorm in which ways a host building may benefit from an attached structure beyond just the addition of space.  The reverse is quite quantifiable, especially in a parasitic relationship but that is what I am striving to move away from.

So, I am looking at a number of things which a host building could gain from its partner.

1. Structure - although a host building may need to support its partner there is possibilities to add additional structure to the host through its partner.  I am thinking in terms of exterior supports but not to the extent of just placing one structure above the other - there needs to be a connection of sorts and adding a building above with its own structure is only an expansion of space.  One of the examples posted in my competition was a nurse log.  Therein, the growing tree roots extend through the nurse log to the earth, invariably adding structure to the rotting log.  The roots also take nutrients from the fallen tree.  To apply this to the built environment, supports would also have to supply resources to both entities (although I am hoping the existing structure is not just a rotting fallen down building...).
2. Decreasing in some manner some of the existing dead loads of the host in order to offset some of the additional weight of an attached structure.  An idea I have been floating for this is looking at snow loads and how I could decrease them with the shape of the roof (wind loads perhaps as well).  Take for example a flat roof with parapet, a structure could be added with angular walls/roof in order to decrease the area where snow would collect and therefore lessen the load.
3. Efficiency.  The efficiency of the existing building could be increased through a number of means.  The typical parasite just leeches off its host; when discussing buildings this is primarily the heating, electrical, plumbing, etc...  My goal is to protect the existing building and its original components.  One way a partner could benefit the host without disturbing it could be to add additional energy efficiency.  Perhaps a structure could be mounted on the wall or roof of a building.  The added structure could provide an additional layer of protection from the elements - such as a higher R value roof/wall which would add to the existing wall/roof of the host building.  Furthermore, any additional structure allows for the implementation of newer/more efficient materials which would benefit an older existing structure.

  This is, in my mind the most important aspect if I want to focus on Mutualism: it is that both entities must benefit from the relationship.  If any readers have some concepts of how buildings can benefit from eachother please let me know.

W

Competition #1

Here is a little post to help us all, build your comment base and help direct my research - all the while with a chance to win a little something...  I am opening up a competition based around my research proposal; it is as follows:

I am looking for pictures of parasitc or mutualistic relationships in nature.  So, for one week I am requesting people post either links, pictures or sketches of such relationships.  Entries are limited to one per person so make your posting worth while.  Entries will be judged by myself and could have some influence on how I develop my project so you will not just be competing for the reward described below.  Due to delivery issues, I will have to limit entries to those I can physically present with the award.  Only those in BC's South West Interior are able to win, however anyone else may help the discourse and put any pictures up.

The prize, for one winner, a six pack of beer of your choosing within reason.  Not bad for what might only take you 5 minutes of searching google images...  It may help your chances if you explain the example in a brief sentence or two as well.  Here is an example:

Post early and often and please keep the entries appropriate for classroom-like discussion.  Stay tuned for more similar competitions.

W

Minor alterations = Revamped Proposal

So after reworking a few things I have updated my proposal.

One of my key concerns was to address the issue of identifying a site.  Seeing as this was of the most trouble it just made sense to include it in the proposal.  

Other than that, everything is progressing quite well - so stay tuned for more info.

W

CUEF: U-REAP Research Proposal

Mutualistic Architecture

Summary: 

Mutualistic Architecture: can patterns from nature be applied to prolong and rejuvenate existing buildings, provide new space for development, diversity and density and advance the field of sustainability in design?  The topic is essentially an amalgamation of how society defines space and non-space and the possibilities of both; quite often the definition of non-space is only relevant to the current usage of what is considered space. Thus, this project is working with what is typically seen as space in the built environment, and developing the non-space associated with it in a mutualistic fashion that is inspired by nature.  

Purpose:

Current development in urban centres is bound by available space and the limited amount therein.  Existing structures, zones, and regulations further limit what is possible in the built environment.  Planning and construction have however evolved to include new concepts to deal with such issues – one of those concepts is parasitic architecture.  The concept is to develop “disused spots in the contemporary city” through designing habitats to attach not only to a building exterior and structure but also to “take advantage of existing... ...water and heating systems”[Stang, A. 20].  Parasitic Architecture although new and somewhat beneficial, is both insufficient and unsustainable because it only relies on a parasitic relationship between the host (existing) building and any new (parasite) building wherein only one unit benefits (even, in some cases, to the point of detriment of the other).  Thus, moving to a more mutualistic, rather than parasitic, relationship can aid the development process in designing new structures while extending the life of existing structures.  The objective should not only be to make use of the existing building but in designing an attached structure, how can the existing structures be revitalized by their new mutualistic partner.

The purpose of this research is to analyze underutilized urban space for the possibility/potential of adapting it to provide new space for increased density and differentiated uses.  The original principles for parasitic architecture will be adhered to in both identifying potential sites but also in the newly designed structures.  However, in designing a ‘parasite’ the objectives will be expanded to include a mutualistic approach that benefits the existing structure insofar as sustainability, design, and longevity.  The reference to the parasitic relationship does not end there however.

Looking to nature one can see proven methods for survival and evolution.  The task is to identify is it possible, and effective, to employ biomimicry in rethinking space throughout the built environment to help preserve existing structures while providing additional space and density.  Furthermore, do such practices contribute to sustainable design and development.  Thus, I will research examples of mutualism in nature and investigate how such practices have not only evolved themselves but also how the organisms engaged in mutualism have benefitted. 

Goals and Objectives of the Project:

1.      Define Mutualistic Architecture in regards to the built evironment and how it differs from typical additions/renovations (following the ideas set forth in the original P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project).

2.      Identify the potential benefits and deterrents to utilizing mutualism and biomimicry in designing buildings.

3.      Source sites throughout British Columbia’s Southern Interior where mutualistic structures would be most beneficial.  Although originally I had planned to provide a site with the proposal, identifying the site has proven to be the important and challenging aspect to the project and thus the process of selecting a site should be researched and documented.

4.      Develop a framework for designing within the mutualistic spectrum (primarily in coordination with the British Columbia Building Code and local bylaws/regulations).

5.      Disseminate Research for Review and Critique – if possible, host a design competition for proposed site within the context of mutualism.

Methodology and Analytical Approach:

            Research will be completed through a variety of means.  It will involve identifying previous studies into theory regarding buildings and their similarities to living organisms.  Also, in deriving why the P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project came to be will illuminate what potential factors could cause the same needs in British Columbia. 

For the project to be finished it will need a potential site for complete study.  Thus the primary goal after evaluating existing theories will to be to find a site to develop theory around.  Ideally it will allow for conception to eventual realization if a potential client can be found.  Primary research will be completed based on a potential site and client.  An in depth analysis of said site will be necessary to identify what its needs are as well as what its capabilities are in respect to hosting a mutualistic structure.  This process may be expanded so as to provide a guide for similar projects.All research will be completed under supervision of the Architectural and Engineering Faculty at TRU.

Previous Studies or Related Information:

            The inspiration and most notable study was the “Prototype for Advanced Ready-made Amphibious Small-scale Individual Temporary Ecological dwelling” (P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E) from Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 2001. [Stang,A. 1]

            Much research has been done on the subject of biomimicry in the built environment and buildings.  Biomimicry in and of itself is an extremely large field but narrowing it down to the design of how buildings may interact with each other is possible.  Many architects, such as Michael Pawlyn, are proceeding with research of biomimetics in architecture.  Even more, biomimicry is not a new design concept either. Still, ignoring concepts beyond an individual building may result in Lance Klein’s concern that, “without nurturing a caring, long-lasting, and meaningful relationship among people, place, and nature, any sustainable approach, including biomimicry, will merely replace conventional practices and prolong the increasing degradation of the natural and built environment.”[Klein, L. 3]  Thus it is simply not enough to focus on biomimicry for design practices.

Plans for Dissemination of Work:

            The entirety of my research will be submitted as a CUEF U-REAP report.  I would be interested in presenting in any fashion at the Undergraduate Research Conference.  Also, I plan to document the research in entirety through an online medium for review from faculty, colleagues, and beyond.  As noted above I would like to develop a framework for implementing a mutualistic type structure under the concept of the P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project.  Furthermore, I would like to host, in conjunction with the Univeristy, a design competition (open) for designing a structure that fits criteria matching a mutualistic approach.  This I feel would be the ultimate method to spread the concept of mutualism in building design.

"Ideas Worth Sharing"

While watching a video on a dutch artist, Theo Jansen http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/theo_jansen_creates_new_creatures.html I came across another video related to what I am investigating through my proposal.  The previous video is great and the next one is equally interesting.

Anyways, have a quick view if you have the time, and furthermore, it might be worth looking the TED website for any topics one might be studying.  Part 2 - the linear to closed loop systems was quite interesting for me but throughout his speech there are points that could relate to anyone's project in our class.  Check it out:

http://www.ted.com/talks/michael_pawlyn_using_nature_s_genius_in_architecture.html

W

Research, Research, Research... - see the links section to the right for more information

CUEF: U-REAP Research Proposal

Mutualistic Architecture

Summary: 

Mutualistic Architecture: can patterns from nature be applied to prolong and rejuvenate existing buildings, provide new space for development, diversity and density and advance the field of sustainability in design?

Purpose:

Current development in urban centres is bound by available space and the limited amount therein.  Existing structures, zones, and regulations further limit what is possible in the built environment.  Planning and construction have however evolved to include new concepts to deal with such issues – one of those concepts is parasitic architecture.  The concept is to develop “disused spots in the contemporary city” through designing habitats to attach not only to a building exterior and structure but also to “take advantage of existing... ...water and heating systems”[Stang, A. 20].  Parasitic Architecture although new, is both insufficient and unsustainable because it only relies on a parasitic relationship between the host (existing) building and any new (parasite) building wherein only one unit benefits (even to the point of detriment of the other).  Thus, moving to a more mutualistic, rather than parasitic, relationship can aid the development process in designing new structures while extending the life of existing structures.  The objective should not only be to make use of the existing building but in designing an attached structure, how can the existing structures be revitalized by their new mutualistic partner.

The purpose of this research is to analyze underutilized urban space for the possibility/potential of adapting it to provide new space for increased density and differentiated uses.  The original principles for parasitic architecture will be adhered to in both identifying potential sites but also in the newly designed structures.  However, in designing a ‘parasite’ the objectives will be expanded to include a mutualistic approach that benefits the existing structure insofar as sustainability, design, and longevity.  The reference to the parasitic relationship does not end there.

Looking to nature one can see proven methods for survival and evolution.  Moving away from the parasitic relationship and looking to mutualistic will be the essence of the eventual design.  Thus, the task is to identify is it possible, and effective, to employ biomimicry in rethinking space throughout the built environment to help preserve existing structures while adding additional space and density.  Furthermore, do such practices contribute to sustainable design and development. 

Goals and Objectives of the Project:

1.    Define Mutualistic Architecture on a scale of one building to another and how it differs from typical additions/renovations (while following the ideas set forth in the original P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project).

2. Identify the potential benefits and deterrents to utilizing mutualism and biomimicry in designing buildings.

3. Source sites throughout British Columbia’s Southern Interior where mutualistic structures would be most beneficial.

4. Develop a framework for designing within the mutualistic spectrum (primarily in coordination with the British Columbia Building Code and local bylaws/regulations).

5. Disseminate Research for Review and Critique – if possible, host a design competition for proposed site within the context of mutualism.

Methodology and Analytical Approach:

            Research will be completed through a variety of means.  It will involve identifying previous studies into theory regarding buildings and their similarities to living organisms.  Also, in deriving why the P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project came to be will illuminate what potential factors could cause the same needs in British Columbia. 

For the project to be finished it will need a potential site for complete study.  Thus the primary goal after evaluating existing theories will to be to find a site to develop theory around.  Ideally it will allow for conception to eventual realization if a potential client can be found.  Primary research will be completed based on a potential site and client.  An in depth analysis of said site will be necessary to identify what its needs are as well as what its capabilities are in respect to hosting a mutualistic structure.  This processes may be expanded so as to provide a guide for similar projects.

            All research will be completed under supervision of the Architectural and Engineering Faculty at TRU.

Previous Studies or Related Information:

            The inspiration and most notable study was the “Prototype for Advanced Ready-made Amphibious Small-scale Individual Temporary Ecological dwelling” (P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E) from Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 2001. [Stang,A. 1]

            Much research has been done on the subject of biomimicry in the built environment and buildings.  Biomimicry in and of itself is an extremely large field but narrowing it down to the design of how buildings may interact with each other is possible. Still, ignoring concepts beyond an individual building may result in Lance Klein’s concern that, “without nurturing a caring, long-lasting, and meaningful relationship among people, place, and nature, any sustainable approach, including biomimicry, will merely replace conventional practices and prolong the increasing degradation of the natural and built environment.”[Klein, L. 3]  Thus it is simply not enough to focus on biomimicry for design practices.

                                                                  

Plans for Dissemination of Work:

            The entirety of my research will be submitted as a CUEF U-REAP report.  I would be interested in presenting in any fashion at the Undergraduate Research Conference.  Also, I plan to document the research in entirety through an online medium for review from faculty, colleagues, and beyond.  As noted above I would like to develop a framework for implementing a mutualistic type structure under the concept of the P.A.R.A.S.I.T.E. Project.  Furthermore, if successful in acquiring a potential site I would like to open a design competition (open) for designing a structure that fits criteria matching a mutualistic approach.  This I feel would be the ultimate method to spread the concept of mutualism in building design.

And the flood gates open...

How on earth did you get to this page?  What terms did you search or what links did you click and follow to end up down this rabbit hole?  Regardless of why or how you did, I suppose I ought to explain what you might find now that you are here.


This blog has been created to both communicate and develop my research project for a class, ARET 2220, I am currently enrolled in at Thompson Rivers University.  The plan is for: updates, conversations, and hopefully, by the end of the program, a few conclusions.


Perhaps what is most important with this blog is that I am seeking to engage a collective critical thought process. Capturing the great ideas of my colleagues, some professionals and some others that are not directly connected to the building technology realm is what this blog is really all about.


So, greetings, and I hope you can check back often...


W