This week we took a tour through BIF, the Business Instructional Facility. We focused on the functional design, and the ways that it worked to be Lead Certified. The most noticeable feature of this is the roof. BIF has this interesting overhang that is surprisingly useful. As seen above, the Southern wall of BIF's atrium is entirely windows. This does a great job of letting in sunlight for passive heat in the winter months. However, in the summer when heat is not wanted, the overhang blocks the sun since it is much higher in the sky.
Another approach that BIF takes is the materials. BIF was built to last, and the floors are specifically chosen to take wear and tear for an extended time. Also, BIF has gardens on the roof. This helps absorb sunlight, and causes the water that hits the roof to go to good use. In addition, there are arrays of solar panels on top of the lecture hall on the Southwest corner. While they don't provide a ton of electricity, they at least contribute some. Overall, BIF was an interesting building that I never have taken much notice of.
No comments:
Post a Comment