With the goal of "zero carbon in operation", this project explores an innovative path to achieve green and low energy consumption in the context of architecture. Different from the conventional approach that relies on closed envelope structures and high-performance equipment, the project realizes energy consumption regulation through basic design means such as layout, form, space and interface. At the same time, it uses Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) to shape the form and expand energy production, seeking a balance between humans, buildings and nature through reducing energy consumption and increasing energy production.
01 Light Environmental Intervention
The building intervenes in the site in a "floating" posture, using a small number of independent column bases to place the building lightly on nature, avoiding the damage to the original ecology caused by a large area of concrete floor slabs, and responding to the geological conditions of soft soil and high water content on site. This strategy maximizes the protection of the natural ecology such as reeds and water surfaces on the site, realizing "minimal intervention" on the environment.
02 Space Energy Reduction — Redefinition of Energy-Consuming Space
We define 70% of the area under the eaves (about 1,750 square meters) as outdoor non-air-conditioned space, covering short-stay functions such as open exhibition halls, coffee and light meals, and event releases. Thanks to the shelter of the eaves and natural ventilation, the temperature under the eaves in summer is much lower than the outdoor ambient temperature, which greatly reduces the demand for equipment. Only spaces for long-term stay such as offices and logistics adopt equipment adjustment. It is estimated that this spatial strategy saves 141,600 kWh of electricity annually, accounting for 74.1% of the total life cycle carbon emission reduction.
03 Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) — Integration of Energy Production and Form
The folded "paper plane" roof is fully covered with a combination of gray-white thin-film photovoltaic modules (BIPV) and aluminum plates, with a total installed capacity of 44.5 kwp and an annual power generation of 46,280 kWh, which can meet 107% of the building's annual electricity consumption, and the surplus energy is fed back to the park. Photovoltaic modules are no longer energy production devices detached from the building, but have become part of building materials and components, realizing the integrated integration of form, space and energy production. The roof is also combined with a rainwater recycling system, with an annual rainwater reuse volume of about 2,000 m³ and a non-traditional water source utilization rate of 25%.
04 Lightweight Construction and Material Control
The main structure adopts an all-steel structure, and the diameter of the 11-meter-high steel column is controlled at 350mm, achieving a slenderness ratio of nearly 30:1 and saving about 60 tons of steel consumption. The roof structure is uniformly divided according to the factory modulus of photovoltaic panels, reducing customization and on-site processing. The external enclosure adopts a hollow metal hanging net, which is deliberately separated from the roof and the ground, enhancing the sense of lightness while presenting the basic logic of the structure.
05 Full Life Cycle Carbon Balance
The measured data since the project's completion show that the building's annual electricity consumption is 43,252 kWh, and the photovoltaic power generation is 46,280 kWh. The estimated total life cycle carbon emission reduction can reach 4,982 tons, of which 74.1% comes from space regulation means, 24.3% from renewable energy utilization, and 1.6% from high-efficiency equipment. The building has achieved the goal of zero carbon and zero energy consumption during the operation stage.
06 Open and Inclusive Future Space
The completed space under the eaves accommodates various "parasitic" formats such as exhibition, communication and commerce, showing inclusiveness and vitality. This project explores the balance between human comfort, environmental intervention and building energy production efficiency, providing a green and sustainable model for future public spaces with variable functions.
07 Summary of Sustainable Benefits
· Proportion of outdoor non-air-conditioned space: 70% (1,750 ㎡)
· Annual electricity saving: 141,600 kWh
· Photovoltaic installed capacity: 44.5 kwp
· Annual power generation: 46,280 kWh (meets 107% of annual electricity consumption)
· Annual rainwater reuse volume: 2,000 m³
· Non-traditional water source utilization rate: 25%
· Full life cycle carbon emission reduction: 4,982 tons
· Operation stage: Zero carbon and zero energy consumption