TECHNICAL DISSERTATION
M.Arch I Semester One
Precedent Study: Science Academy Museum, California by Renzo Piano
Work carried out by Jason Crawford and Riane Samir
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Manifesto
Expressed in the language of adaption, the Academy of Science museum is one that is profound and articulated in how it presents itself in the surrounding landscape. That which precedes the former is represented through the medium of sustainability.
The Museum, not only adapts to the topography of the land but embraces it. This strong vocation was a shared vision between Architect and individual and has since allowed urban and nature to co-exist together through environmental techniques and procedures.
The large inviting spaces through the piazza creates unity in how people interact through the visual connection. Linked under one roof, the Academy of Science museum creates an idyllic arrangement of spaces, related through education, research, conservation and exhibitions, therefore allowing each person to visually express their interests within the building.
Site Overview
RPBW envisaged a centre for learning, which would respond to contemporary global issues and be environmentally sustainable within its context, whilst educating visitors on the natural world and encouraging learning with its interactive exhibits. To do this they carefully designed a building to reflect its surrounding habitat with an 18,302m2 living green roof, echoing the seven hills within the city of San Francisco. Internally the museum would become a living exhibit. Two three-story domes, 90 feet in diameter, which would contain a planetarium and thermally controlled rainforest exhibit containing animal species from Borneo, Costa Rica and the Amazon. The museum would also be equipped with an aquarium and national history exhibit, which would be completely accessible to the public.
Due to its ambitious and complex nature, the construction of the project costs drastically increased. Further funding was required during the construction in order to sustain the envisaged scope.
The project was completed in 2008 and has since been rewarded with the world’s first LEED Double Platinum museum, and the largest Double Platinum building on the planet. The building has since doubled its visitor attendance and has become a precedent for sustainable design around the world.
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The following files are available below:
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