This
design project focused on the application of a turf grass planted “bio-wall” as
part of a partially closed HVAC system within a new lecture theatre “pod” to
create an adequate indoor air quality based on the high concentration of
occupants. The “pods” form part of a new Lecture Theatre Hub for CoventryUniversity. The “bio-wall” is based on a
design evaluated in a case study on the University of Guelph-Humber, Toronto, Canada
as part of the dissertation. At Guelph-Humber a bio-filter wall has been
incorporated into the teaching building’s four-storey atrium. The findings of
the report indicated that a “bio-wall” could be a feasible strategy in creating
a learning environment with an indoor air quality which meets current British
standards. However, further research has been suggested to refine the system.
Within the dissertation, past research in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs),
the effects of green plants on building occupants’ wellbeing, Sick Building
Syndrome (SBS), and carbon sequestration were evaluated. The project attempted
to re-evaluate the notion of “healthy isolation” and separation of internal
environment in an attempt to save energy. Where natural ventilation is widely
seeing a renewed popularity in commercial and public buildings; however, issues
regarding energy consumption are not necessarily being addressed, more than
sidestepped. The idea behind the design of the lecture theatre “pod” was to
respond to the notion of environmental isolation albeit as a way of promoting a
healthy internal environment, with an eye on conservation of energy.