ARCTIC RESEARCH CENTER
Made in: Revit + Rhino | ArchiCad | Adobe Photoshop | 3ds Max + Corona Render
The Arctic region, known for its harsh climate and extreme conditions, presents numerous challenges for human habitation and well-being. However, it is precisely these challenges that drew my attention when decided to design a research center in the northernmost city of Norilsk. With its severe climate characterized by polar nights and cloudy days, Norilsk has historically grown out of a workers' settlement near the mines, and today stands as a modern city with a thriving mining industry. My graduation project aimed to address the adverse effects of the Arctic environment on physical and mental well-being, while providing a conducive environment for scientific research and collaboration.
If we are talking about the Arctic, then immediately there are associations of cold, strong winds, snowy deserts and polar nights. It is physically and emotionally difficult for a person to be in such a climate for a long time.
Scientific studies have highlighted the adverse effects of the Arctic environment on both physical and mental well-being. Addressing these challenges was at the forefront of my diploma project.
The first and foremost challenge was to protect the building from the harsh effects of winds, permafrost, and low temperatures. Drawing inspiration from the Arctic landscape, the artistic concept incorporated the distinctive lines of the surroundings to shape the building and its landscape.
The design successfully strikes a balance between the vertically oriented tower and the horizontally oriented blocks, allowing the complex to harmoniously blend into the environment while maintaining the iconic silhouette associated with the Arctic.
To ensure the autonomous existence of the research center, essential engineering structures were incorporated, including a boiler room, reservoir, and power plant, among others. These facilities provide the necessary infrastructure to sustain the complex and its occupants in the harsh Arctic conditions.
The tower itself houses apartments, offering comfortable living spaces for researchers and staff. However, the innovation lies in the allocation of different public spaces on each floor. The typical floors feature an array of amenities, such as a home cinema, co-working spaces, a library, a greenhouse, a mini-bar, and a billiards area. This diverse range of communal spaces fosters collaboration, social interaction, and relaxation, allowing researchers to unwind and find inspiration amidst their demanding scientific pursuits.
By prioritizing ergonomics and climate control, the design of the research center aims to minimize the negative impacts of the Arctic environment on its occupants. The creation of a comfortable and inspiring environment promotes physical and mental well-being, enabling researchers to focus on their scientific pursuits without undue distraction. Moreover, the collaborative spaces foster cross-disciplinary interactions and the exchange of ideas, creating a vibrant and dynamic scientific community within the Arctic's challenging setting.
In my design, the complex is divided into four functional blocks: the laboratory block, the social and business block, the sports and recreation block, and the residential block. Each block serves a specific purpose, and the arrangement of these blocks has been carefully planned to optimize functionality and enhance the user experience.
One of the key considerations in the design was the provision of natural light to the areas that require it the most. The laboratory and household blocks, which benefit from ample natural light, are strategically located on the south side of the complex. This ensures that the laboratories and domestic spaces receive maximum daylight, creating a conducive environment for work and living. On the other hand, the public and sports blocks, which do not rely as heavily on natural light, are situated on the north side of the complex.
Within the laboratory block, the second and third floors are dedicated to laboratories, offices, and classrooms. This arrangement allows for efficient workflow and easy access between these spaces. This vertical integration within the laboratory block enhances collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers and students.
Moving to the public block, a range of amenities can be found, including a conference hall, an event area, a gym, and a thermal complex. These spaces cater to both the social and business needs of the complex's users. The conference hall serves as a venue for academic gatherings, seminars, and workshops, while the event area provides a versatile space for various social functions. The gym promotes physical well-being, and the thermal complex offers relaxation and rejuvenation opportunities.
One distinctive feature of the complex is the integration of internal green spaces within each block. For instance, the apartments in the household block feature terraces that overlook the ground-floor garden. These green spaces not only enhance the visual appeal of the complex but also contribute to the overall well-being of its occupants. Research has shown that access to nature and greenery can have a positive impact on mental health and productivity, making these internal green spaces invaluable additions to the design.
By dividing the complex into distinct functional blocks, strategically locating them based on the need for natural light, and integrating internal green spaces, the design optimizes functionality and creates a pleasant environment for research, work, and leisure.
In conclusion, the design of a research center in Norilsk, the northernmost city with its severe Arctic climate, required innovative solutions to overcome the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.
By drawing inspiration from the Arctic landscape, incorporating sustainable technologies, and prioritizing the well-being of its occupants, the research center serves as a testament to human resilience and adaptability.
