Parametric architecture
In world architecture, the last 20 years can be called the era of parametricism. This progressive direction emerged at the intersection of architecture, sculpture, biology, mathematics and high technology. The term "Parametricism" was first coined by Patrick Schumacher at the 11th Venice Architecture Biennale in 2008, also formulating its principles, which are similar to those followed in the work of Antoni Gaudi.
The main feature of parametric design is that all elements of the building are connected through complex mathematical calculations. Digital design allows us to create forms that are as close as possible to organic materials that we are used to seeing in nature and takes into account the relationship between the structures being built, the environment and people.
We present to you an impressive example of parametric architecture: the Phoenix International Media Center in Beijing.
The area of Phoenix International Media Center is 1.8 ha. The total area of the building is 65000m2, with a height of 55m. In addition to the media office, broadcast studios and production offices, the building provides abundant open spaces for the public to have interactive experiences. two freestanding office towers create multiple shared public spaces. In the eastern and western parts of the common areas there are continuous stairs, landscaped platforms, ramps and transitional escalators that complete the building of energetic and dynamic spaces.
The height difference between the southern and northern interiors can provide sunlight quality, ventilation and landscape views to the office towers, while avoiding glare and noise from the broadcast room. The difference in height also creates an opportunity to avoid the sun rays of the residential building in the north direction.
In addition, energy-saving and low-carbon concepts have also been applied to the building's design. Instead of laying a drainage pipe on a flat surface, rainwater is collected by a natural descent along the structural ribs into a collection tank located on the floor of the building. After filtration, the rainwater is recycled, providing artistic waterscape and landscape irrigation. In addition to the aesthetic value of the architectural form, the flat surface and round shape of the structure mitigates the strong impact of street wind during Beijing's windy winter.
A double-layered building exterior can improve comfort in functional areas and reduce energy consumption. Digital technology is used to precisely adjust the physical space of the outer shell and the inner volume to ensure an exact match between the seams. The conical common space, which is 30 meters high, creates a chimney effect that provides natural ventilation to save energy during the transition seasons.