Microclimate Network
The network of biophilic structures creates more desirable microclimates to encourage social interaction within the community. Roof sections are repurposed to create two types of structures: play structures and a shading network. Overlapping and interacting with one another, these features protect and create new social spaces, promote outdoor activities, and generate comfortable microclimates where people can linger even when the sun is hot.
A series of sites were studied in the neighborhood that, together, form a backbone linking the Olympic Stadium and the river. Microclimate analysis helped us identify intervention zones that already benefit from the best conditions during the hottest times of the day, as well as areas that could be optimized by adding shading structures. The solar potential analysis helped us understand where we could increase the height of our structure without compromising sunlight access for neighbors. This analysis allowed us to identify ideal intervention zones around the Maisonneuve Community Garden and Rouen Park on Bennett Avenue as prime locations to explore the concept.
The leaf-shaped canopies are supported by cantilevered masts and a variety of cables. These can both optimize thermal comfort through the shade they create and serve to collect rainwater. The shape of the canopies allows snow to slide along the veins of the leaves, thereby reducing the live loads caused by heavy snowfall. The design allows for flexibility along the system's grid, enabling a section of the canopy to adjust, allowing these materials to function in a dynamic way that the Olympic roof was never able to achieve.
The panels interact with the play structures, which in turn utilize the full range of roof components to create bridges, climbing structures, roundabouts, and swings that offer diverse experiences for people of all ages! The deployment of these structures in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood is just the beginning of what the stadium's network of components can become. This concept could easily spread across the island, while adapting to the unique conditions of each space and even creating stronger bonds throughout the community.
(From competitor's text)
(Unofficial automated translation)
