Eco Factor: Sustainable building includes photovoltaic panels and rain-harvesting system.
Located on the coastal site next to a mangrove swamp, The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s new research campus in Panama is designed by Kiss + Cathcart. The building is designed with an intention of exerting minimum environmental impact while providing an exemplary scientific facility. The building includes laboratories, classrooms, conference rooms and support spaces built on a raised platform shaded by an overhanging patched roof. The linear plan provides gateway for the natural ventilation and daylight to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Photovoltaic panels are installed all over the roof, interspersed with clear glass so that daylight could enter inside. Further, the angles of the roof have been molded in such a way that the rainwater could be directed toward a tank, which is located at a central point. Thus, the building generates most of the energy required itself and further, rain harvesting system brings it closer to a zero-impact idea.
Via: KissCathcart
