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Investigations
Building Information Modeling (BIM): NAC|Architecture has been an early adopter of technologies that advance both the practice of architecture and the firm’s ability to serve clients effectively. To that end the firm uses Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications to support a program of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). BIM software allows architects to design and draw objects (e.g. walls, doors, windows) three-dimensionally and embed those objects with information such as model numbers, finishes, etc. It helps architects visually communicate ideas to clients earlier and more quickly in the design process than is possible with two-dimensional drawings and can allow owners to see the life-cycle cost impact of design decisions, which helps them make informed decisions about things that affect operational costs. Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) enables all project partners (architects, engineers, contractors and consultants) to collaborate more effectively, solving problems in real time while projects are still on the boards rather than addressing issues in the field where adjustments become costly. In the mid-1980s NAC|Architecture pushed the limits of Autodesk’s AutoCAD, producing all projects digitally. In 1998 the firm moved toward employing object-oriented drafting and BIM on every project – large and small, in every market sector – utilizing Autodesk’s AutoCAD Architecture. In 2006 NAC|Architecture determined that the development of Autodesk's Revit software had progressed to a point where it could produce a complete set of construction documents in a database-driven environment with more BIM capabilities. Since then NAC|Architecture has taken projects through all phases from schematic design through construction utilizing BIM and IPD, developing a deep knowledge of the capabilities of BIM software. Professionals at NAC|Architecture continue pushing the limits of both software and hardware through coordination with consultant BIM models, utilization of project data, vivid renderings, daylighting studies, and consistent adherence to utilizing standards to create clear, concise construction documents. Using these new technologies and approaches improves collaboration between owners and consultants, which elevates the quality of the process and enhances the outcome for everyone involved.
The Accuracy of Daylighting Simulations: NAC|Architecture lights the spaces we create with natural daylight whenever possible. This saves energy, but also improves the spatial experience for users of the spaces. As part of our process in considering daylighting for a space, we have employed different techniques to predict results of our design decisions. We have built physical models with interchangeable components and tested them on the heliostat at Seattle’s Lighting Design Lab, and we have modeled spaces on several types of software, including 3ds Max 2009, AGI, Ecotect, and IES Flucs Pro. Now that we have several completed projects for which modeling was conducted, we are able to measure the actual daylight levels in rooms and compare those to the results our modeling led us to expect. Measurements are being taken at several dates during the year; when this is complete, we will publish our findings.
Displacement Ventilation: NAC|Architecture pioneered the use of displacement ventilation in schools in the Pacific Northwest. A form of this technology is commonly used in theater and auditorium applications, but it has seen limited use in schools with only some schools in New Hampshire and Minnesota trying it on a limited basis. Displacement ventilation is an alternative to traditional ventilation systems where air is mixed as it is introduced to occupied areas. The advantages of a displacement ventilation system are that it is quieter, provides cleaner air, and saves energy. Displacement ventilation introduces air at floor level where it is heated by occupants. This causes the air to rise and displace the stale air in the room toward the ceiling where it can be exhausted. Review of existing displacement systems found them lacking. A raised floor was not a viable option in schools from economic and maintenance standpoints and so a different solution needed to be developed. NAC|Architecture, working with our partners Hargis Engineers, devised a new method of accomplishing displacement ventilation in classrooms. In the system as conceived, distribution of air occurs under casework along the exterior wall at low velocity. This technology was developed using computational fluid dynamic modeling, which helped us refine design details such as the free area required and delivery velocity. NAC|Architecture continues to perfect displacement ventilation for schools as additional projects are built and we are able to obtain data on its effectiveness. In a mixed-air system, contaminants remain in the room for a long time, while displacement ventilation removes them. Computational Fluid Dynamic Modeling is used to test designs. Cool air is introduced along the floor and exhausted at a higher level. Shafts that also introduce natural light can be used to create a “chimney effect,” enhancing air movement. Heat exchangers allow the use of 100% outside air, thus greatly improving indoor air quality. Air supply ducts under the floor send air to be distributed along the outside perimeter of the room. Light and vent shafts exhaust air while air is supplied at higher temperatures and lower velocity at floor level.
Evidence-Based Design: Wilson High School was recently a featured project in the book Evidence-Based Design for Multiple Building Types by David H. Watkins, FAIA, and D. Kirk Hamilton, FAIA, published by Wiley. The book examines how architects, including NAC|Architecture, are increasingly basing design decisions on data derived from their own applied research. The book offers a compelling description of the rigor required for evidence-based practice and cites Wilson High School as an example of a project that used rigorous research for design decision-making.
Net-Zero Portable Classroom: With the support of NAC|Architecture, the University of Washington College of Built Environments has been awarded a grant from the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) to have students design and build a net-zero portable classroom for K-12 schools. This effort will be part of a course offering in the fall of 2009. Portable classrooms often have terrible space and air quality, and infrastructure is a problem for schools that install these buildings. The idea is that the students will learn how photovoltaics, rainwater catchment, wind technologies, etc. could work to meet the needs of educators and students in this very common school environment. After building this unit the students will occupy it as a studio to test the actual performance of the systems and record their findings. NAC|Architecture is assisting the College of Built Environments with planning, design and implementation of the project. One of our Associate Principals has been assigned to work with students on the project regarding educational design, building type, alternative-energy knowledge, and the technical classroom requirements that will have an impact on energy usage.
Classroom-of-the-Future Design Competition: We worked with students from Oxford Academy, a public college preparatory school in Cypress, California, to design a classroom of the future. This was part of Architecture for Humanity's “Open Architecture Challenge: Better Classroom Design” competition. The competition required that architects work with students and teachers to produce a design that addressed the unique challenges faced by the school, striving to provide smart, safe and sustainable learning spaces. We rethink classroom design with each of our projects, some of which do not have traditional classrooms. This competition gave us a broader opportunity to work with our usual partners in design – teachers and students – and delve deeper into what a learning space will be in the future without the constraints of the present. This experience has provided us with a useful tool in conversations with colleagues and future clients about how the environments we create can have a positive effect on learning.
The Effect of Building Envelope Enhancements on the Energy Performance of Two New Elementary Schools:
A White Paper produced in collaboration with Hargis Engineers
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We have offices located in Seattle and Spokane, Washington; Los Angeles, California; Denver, Colorado.
Contact Us
Seattle Office
2201 6th Ave Ste 1405
Seattle, Washington 98121-1847
phone: 206-441-4522
fax: 206-441-7917
Los Angeles Office
3951 Medford St
Los Angeles, California 90063-1608
phone: 323-859-3100
fax: 323-859-3110
Spokane Office
1203 W Riverside Ave
Spokane, Washington 98021-1107
phone: 509-838-8240
fax: 509-838-8261
Denver Office
450 W 14th Ave No 40389
Denver, Colorado 80204
phone: 720-335-6248
fax: 720-294-3465
