New University Accommodation Iraq

New University Accommodation 2009- Jordan + Bateman Architects 3 Sep 2009 Jordan + Bateman Architects, working as part of a consortium has prepared this design proposal for new University staff accommodation in Iraq. Responding to a request from the government, the consortium consists of: Jordan + Bateman Architects Ltd Gleeds Atelier 10 F J Samuely and Partners David Jarvis Landscapes We have put together this design proposal initially for 60 apartments. The buildings consist of 2 bedroom apartments of 100m2 GIA arranged over 6 floors with a central core. The concept scheme is designed to adapt to each specific site and draw on the local architecture and culture of its immediate context. The individual buildings can be rotated around their circulation cores to fit into an existing district's street layout or within campus style parkland settings. The facades will draw on local influences particularly for environmental sun shading techniques such as fretted screens, to create layers of shade. The elevations we have shown are only to give an indication, as each building's design will respond to each site. The height of our buildings can vary depending on their urban context and a typical building will provide a mixture of 6 x two-bedroom and 6 x three-bedroom apartments with 100 and 130 square metre areas respectively. The three-bedroom apartment also has a generous balcony. We propose to use a rapid method of reinforced concrete construction using a system of hollow block work. This acts as permanent shuttering and can be rapidly laid without using mortar. It is reinforced as it is built and back filled with an RC mix overnight. This will provide a high quality solid building with a long life span at a reduced cost and with a simple method of construction. The mass of the concrete also offers opportunities to use the structure as a thermal regulator. The mass concrete is insulated on the exterior with a render or rain screen cladding providing protection from UV degradation and giving a reduction in the potential AC load that exceeds 40%. Solar power, photovoltaics and water recycling measures are also integrated into the design. The design is modern but with the use of local Arabic screens and details. The buildings will be firmly rooted in the local culture. The proposal is for a turn-key operation and is waiting approval form the Iraqi government. New University AccommodationIraq images / information from Jordan + Bateman Architects