PORTER TEXT

COMPETITION “PORTER SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES” Architect: Enrique Browne Eco – Technology Systems Coordinators: Norman Goisberg and Darío Rodríguez Associate Architect: Patricio Browne Collaborators: Daniela Gasic, Andrés Frávega, Cristian Von Beck, Claudio Campos, Maureen Trebilcock, Verónica Celedón (Models), Claudio Peña (Assistant). Hvac systems: Joaquín Reyes (CINTEC S.A.) Electrical engineering: Ramón Castro (CINTEC S.A.) Digital control: Raúl Paez (CINTEC S.A.) Solar energy: Christof Horn (SIEMENS) Waste water sewage system: Ganter & Errazurriz (Environmental Engineers) Accoustics: Darío Rodríguez

Saving energy, water and other resources, together with improving the quality of life of the working environment are basic objectives of the project We considered that a“green building” must look green, incorporating vegetation as an intrinsic part of its aspect and functioning. This “image” is important for an institution dedicated to environmental studies in a desertic region. The green “image” must come together with a certain technological flair. This aspect is given by the vertical volume of the Administrative Area and the communications antenna. They also would give to The Porter School the image of a landmark from the highway. Not withstanding that the project is located at the side of the principal vehicular access to the University, it is virtually outside it. That’s why the connection with the Campus by a pedestrian bridge is key, given that the Porter School will have as its neighbor the Visitor Center destined to receive visitors to the University. In addition, the bridge creates a portal that marks the entrance to the University. The basic scheme of our project for the Porter School have very good performance, because the scheme of two elongated blocks in an east – west main axis surrounding a “central atrium” with openings in the upper part and its two extremes, is excellent in terms of making the best use of day-lighting, sun-shading and natural ventilation. It also takes maximum advantage of the best views. To both blocks, one of offices and the other with laboratories, it is added another for support areas, separated longitudinally by a service “street”, linked to the vehicular circulation. The 3 longitudinal blocks are linked by bridges that cross the long and tall interior spaces. The building has basically 3 levels (plus the underground parking). This allows fluid interior circulations by galleries, bridges and ramps, without elevators. It favors the handicapped, and also promotes the interpersonal contacts in the atrium and bridges. In the atrium it is used crystal, wood and trees in pots. Crystals of the enclosures of the offices and laboratories reflect the natural light coming from above, reducing electric needs. The wood, a highly recyclable material, provides warmth making the place more pleasant.