Love Looks Like

A pavilion designed for NYC submitted as my final project for one of my classes this semester. What do you think?

Concept:
The pavilion was inspired by the word "LOVE". Moreover, the analysis and examination of how we love and what we love in this country. The relationships of Human to Human, Human to Nature, Nature to Technology, Human to Technology and the balance or imbalance of those relationships were all inspiration for the design, structure, materials, and form of the pavilion.

The forms and shape of the building is inspired by the heart symbol, which is one of the most recognizable symbols of love around the world. This symbols is also expressed in the glass art wall that connects the Atrium to the Covered Hall. The digital symbol for love "<3" is employed to create a pattern that is also a symbol for the relationship we as people living in a digital age have for technology. A relationship that often throws the connection to nature off kilter. Further, evidence of examination of relationships can be seen in the use of construction materials in the two main areas of the pavilion; The Atrium and the Hall. The Atrium is made from clay bricks and is a open area that has seating and views of small gardens. The Hall, which is multi-purpose and can be used for cultural events, is constructed of glass and steel representing technology and industry. The connection of the is a symbol not only for the affinity and need we have for both but also for the balance that can be created with both. Love of one does not have to mean exclusion of the other.
The pavilion was designed to be sustainable and will be constructed to be semi-permanent. The building materials are all recyclable and elements of sustainable design were employed so that the structure does not become waste when it is no longer needed.

  -Sustainable Design Elements:

•     Construction Materials-recycled or recyclable
•      Clay walls act as heat masses and  assist with heating and cooling leading to a reduction of energy use. They are mold and fade resistant, provide moister control and are made in the United States.
• VOC Free Paint used to paint walls in restrooms and other areas
• Living Roof will provide cooling to the Lobby area, and help to deter the "heat island" phenomenon as it the building is designed for construction in New York City. The Living Roof will reduce energy use in the structure and become part of the natural ecosystem for indigenous birds, plants and insects.
• Solar Panels added to the roof to provide energy for the electricity
• An underground Storm Leaching system will be installed to collect and store rain water from the structure which will be used in the "low flush" toilets and "no water" urinals in the restrooms.
• A solar thermal water heating system will be installed to reduce water usage and heat water as needed.