DESA1002 'Continuous City' Slavisa Stokanovic

Abstract

Throughout the semester I have been developing the design of my proposed “Apple Inc Centre” in Madrid. The building consists of 5 levels, which include: Ground Floor Retail Space 1st Floor Retail Space 2nd Floor Repairs/Service 3rd Floor Offices/Administration 4th Floor Learning centre The design of the buildings internal space has proved to be a challenge as among other major issues the chosen site was only 230 m². This made it difficult to create an aesthetically and functionally efficient space that is sensitive to the differing needs of the occupants on the 5 different levels, which through the development process I was able to solve. Apple Inc Centre buildings facades effectively utilise a glass curtain wall system and aluminum panels to create a sharp modern look that evokes a sense of grandness in its vertical and horizontal line proportions. This innovative combination of glazing and aluminum ensures the buildings effective use of natural lighting and ventilation. The external aluminum panels that control the amount of sunlight and wind that enter the building can be adjusted to suit the needs of the occupants. Along with natural ventilation the building also utilises mechanical ventilation i.e. air conditioning. This helps to create an environment that is both dynamic and responsive. The floors of the building have been placed and formulated strategically. A marketing strategy has been employed with the retail floors being situated on the bottom. The primary spaces of the building have been clearly separated and do not conflict with the secondary spaces in the building, aiding to the overall function of the plans. Apple Inc Centre also contains a Parapet roof (slope east at 3o into a box gutter) Floor to floor height of 4000mm, Ceilings 500mm (steel beams and plasterboard), and a floor finish of timber flooring on steel framing spanning from east to west supported by the concrete block load bearing walls. Overall I have found this project to be very interesting and essential in developing and enhancing various necessary skills associated with designing a structure!