The new MBAM building is conceived not just as a shelter, but as a support network machine that incubates many micro ecosystems. Therefore the new image of MBAM will not merely be one of an industry association, but a think tank that houses a conducive environment allowing its members to turn massive ideas into workable practices and set new standards for the construction world.
The new philosophy for sustainable design is to intelligently orchestrate a variety of high and low tech strategies to achieve the highest efficiency of power use and lowest carbon footprint cost. This building design approaches this challenge by embracing nature not just as a resource, but also its moderator. The unique façade contorts to minimize solar insolation, while maximizing the intake of natural prevailing winds. This passive approach consumes zero mechanical energy with the added bonus of creating a uniquely iconic form.
The resulting design creates many outdoor terraces that are shaded. The unique façade not only cools the building down, but also creates comfortable microclimates around the building for meaningful encounters and informal gatherings. Such a relaxed setting makes the headquarters a hub for continuous learning and a model for collaborative production.
By creating a headquarters that transcend outdated modes of placemaking, this building and its owners become leaders of a society that is increasingly conscious of the environment. Not only does the building set new standards for design, its flora in the open gardens will attract a wide variety of fauna to eventually form many small but important ecosystems.
TEAM CREDITS:
Min Ter Lim, Alison Lam, Shih Da Tseng, Michelle M. Wu