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Beneficial Integration A beneficial integration is an
integration that benefits more than one system. For instance, the height of the Secretariat serves as not only
a landmark for the site, but also helps shade the plaza and blocks winds and
noise from the East river. The Thermopane glass on the
Secretariat acts as the envelop and also aids in the mechanical system, by
lowering the heat gain from the sun to the building. The North and South facades are faced with
marble. This not only blocks the direct
north wind and south sun, but insulates the building as well. The rigid structural pattern allows
for curtain window facades on the East and West and a very rigid office
layout The core elements, such as elevators, restrooms, and service areas, are
kept on the inside of the building also allowing the free plan for offices. All of the “services” of the
Secretariat are hidden in the ceiling plenum above the acoustical ceiling
grid. This allows for a clean look in
the offices, and in turn the acoustical ceiling absorbs sound helping in keep
the offices quieter. The buildings are each laid on the
site by function. The advantage is
that the site is more easily monitored for security. The layout also allows zoning and for
sound control. One real advantage to
the site layout being so condensed is that you have shorter distances to walk
meaning less time and more effective workers. The General Assembly is a great
example of integration. It’s
aerodynamics not only directs the wind patterns, but also accounts for the
interior acoustics of the space. In
the Assembly the mechanical systems are thought of as part of the structure
visually. Also at in the lobby the
lights are part of the columns.
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(Above):
Secretariat behind the General Assembly
(Above):
Secretariat facing the East River |
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(Above): Vehicular Paths
(Above): Site Section showing circulation
(Above): Contours of site
(Above): Site Plan |
