title
"Microclimatic envelope_ A totally sustainable life style for the community"
year 2008
location
Dallas, Texas, USA
status competition
client "La Reunion TX" community
architects ggc+p a
program spaces for art, workspaces, housing and other facilities
publications "make space for art" hardcover book
exhibitions "Make space for art" slide show_ PanAmerican ArtProjects, Dallas, USA
 
Protecting the climate and a sustainable life style call for a holistic approach. The master-plan explains both the project idea and the use of the landscape. The heart of the project consists of a microclimatic envelope designed in accordance with passive-energy concepts and it will satisfy the overall energy balance of the Community. This envelope is ready to receive “with open arms” artists of the Community with their requirements. In this spaces artists could develop their activities and they could socialize. The whole microclimatic envelope (with its whole structure) will be realized in the first phase but internal buildings (spaces), that are light structures, will be realized (made ready) by the Community in the phase I and in the phase II. Their staging(realization), in fact, will depend on the requirements of the Community.
THE MICROCLIMATIC ENVELOPE
(timber construction with steel components and glass):The ground floor is a sunken landscaped relaxation space with temperate climate. In the first floor of this envelope there are multi-functional living, gallery, installation, and performance spaces; all these spaces, as well as in the other floors, are organized around the internal square where there is a temperate climate. In the second floor as well as in the third floor there are five residences and five studios for artists. Internal spaces are light structures without problems for their airtight and watertight. Existing structures (house and storage) will be restored (made up) and they will continue to be utilized. The existing trestle will be preserved in its natural state as a sculpture. In the phase III the outdoor amphitheater will be realized.