UPCuriosity presents itself as a space that responds to the concerns of its users:
Research, knowledge, teaching or generating thoughts that lead us to new ways of taking action.
The proposal is a response to the location of the site, its relationship to the campus and its immediate surroundings. It takes into account the existing conditions and the planning of the site and strives for maximum flexibility in order to accommodate a variable programme. Seen from the campus, the building presents itself as a compact base from which a higher volume rises. This compactness is broken up inside, where the volume opens up to maximise its size and allow natural light and views to the outside.
PROGRAMME
The building’s programme emphasises sustainability and community interaction through features such as a photovoltaic pergola for renewable energy, vertically organised spaces for efficient installations, and interconnected volumes linked by service routes. It offers outdoor amenities such as a terrace and an urban garden, promotes social cohesion through common spaces and open areas, and integrates natural elements into the building. Direct street access to the facilities ensures practicality, while the preservation of existing architectural elements such as ramps and foundations maintains historical continuity and architectural integrity.
Pre-existing Structure & Mixed solution
A hybrid solution is proposed for the above-ground structure, combining 162 mm thick timber panels with metal frames fitted with 633 mm deep BOYD hollow beams. To allow large spans of more than 10 metres, the ceilings are reinforced with HEB-300 struts every 4 metres to ensure spacious, flexible interiors. Horizontal rigidity is achieved by diagonal bracing at the communication core areas. Below ground, the structure continues with a concrete-based solution that fulfils REI-120 fire resistance requirements.
The Flexible Module
In order to meet the requirements of a multi-purpose building that accommodates different uses at different spatial and temporal scales, the optimal module must be carefully determined. The module, defined as a recurring unit in the construction, serves to improve the simplicity, regularity and cost-effectiveness of the architectural design. Through strategic densification, it forms a grid system that not only facilitates structural integrity, but also offers a variety of flexible spatial configurations and adaptable functional arrangements.
Energy and environmental concepts
The architectural design process centres on careful consideration of the local climatic conditions and the strategic use of available resources. The connection to the Districlima grid, the self-sufficiency provided by the photovoltaic systems and the various architectural strategies incorporated into the design all contribute to reducing energy consumption. Minimising the environmental impact is an important goal.
Therefore, the conscious selection of materials with minimal environmental impact during their life cycle is considered from the early stages of the project. This holistic approach emphasises ON-A’s commitment to sustainable architectural practices and ensures a seamless balance between environmental dynamics and resource efficiency.
Spatial qualities and users
The right lighting and the incorporation of natural elements have a significant impact on well-being and promote concentration, motivation, and productivity. The proposal organises the facilities and services in conjunction with the communication core, centralising maintenance and ensuring seamless access to documentation. The distribution of installations on each floor is organised horizontally: Electrical and telecommunication infrastructures are integrated into the technical flooring, while air conditioning and lighting utilise the Boyd beam passages on the ceiling. This thoughtful integration of spatial elements aims to optimise user comfort and operational efficiency, creating an environment that leads to improved functionality and user satisfaction.
Building envelope
The building envelope is designed to emphasise interior spatial flexibility. A rhythmic approach with a width of 1 metre is proposed, using 10 cm thick mullions to seamlessly integrate the partitions required for each distribution scheme. This design strategy ensures adaptability and functional efficiency within the architectural framework.
