The project presented here serves as an exploration into the selection and assessment of structural material systems using a multi-criteria analysis approach. It requires the use of various software tools, mapping techniques, reference materials, online research, and basic quantitative methods. Questions such as the weight of a building, the origins of its materials, and the duration of their presence at the construction site are paramount.
While buildings are fundamentally comprised of materials, an inclination towards prioritizing form over substance often obscures inquiries regarding how material choices influence environmental impacts. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in architectural design, as the composition of buildings profoundly impacts landscapes, economies, and the climate.
The foundation of this project lies in the redevelopment of a previously abandoned ground-floor retail and parking structure. Leveraging a predetermined structural system and site location, the framing plan is devised within the constraints of existing structural geometries and the limitations imposed by the chosen structural materials. Additionally, comprehensive studies on material geography and carbon accounting offer valuable insights into the environmental implications of material selection decisions.
