APARTMENT OF AIR
ALMADA, PORTUGAL
IN COLLABORATION WITH ALEXANDRE VICENTE
The main driver of this project was to create a safe and low-cost solution to establish social distancing with architecture. It was designed during the COVID-19 pandemic, so we reinforced the idea that housing should allow flexibility to adapt to new societal conditions where human interactions were limited. This project investigates a new building typology by utilizing proper airflow, the disinfecting qualities of sunlight, and ample social distancing between units. Cuts in each building divide the volumes in three and align with the southern sun's axis, allowing for optimized daylight exposure from morning to afternoon. Many potential residents would not have access to sufficient air conditioning, so the architecture required passive cooling. The central V-shaped terraces allow airflow through the structures, establish a sense of vertical community, and add a shared axiality that ties all of the buildings together.
Model Photograph: Axonometric
Model Photograph: Axonometric
Model Photograph: Axonometric
Orthographic Drawing: Roof Plan
Orthographic Drawing: Third Floor Plan
Orthographic Drawing: Second Floor Plan
Orthographic Drawing: First Floor Plan
Orthographic Drawing: Section
Orthographic Drawing: Geometric Diagram
Perspective Rendering: ExteriorPerspective Rendering: Courtyard