INTERNATIONAL PROJECT both the construction of the flexible column-free interior spaces and the possibility for the construction of a future road tunnel under the site . Secondary steel trusses support the cantilevering balcony and roof canopy asymmetrically from the arch structure , forming a unique structural design to accommodate both permanent and temporary functions for both the library and the public realm .
Oodi has been built using local materials and with local climate conditions in mind . The wooden façade is made from pre-fabricated elements . 33-millimeter-thick Finnish high-quality spruce has been used for the cladding . A specific grading and quality control system was developed for the timber , the sawing and the treatment of the slats . The complex curved geometry was designed and manufactured using algorithm-aided parametric 3D design methods in order to achieve the required precision . The appearance of the façade will develop over the years towards a deeper , richer version of its initial hue .
The design of the building envelope is intrinsic to the passive energy approach adopted by the project team . Detailed analysis of the façade performance has informed the environmental solutions and has allowed the team to minimise the requirement for mechanical environmental control systems , which facilitates the highly flexible architectural solution . The glass facades allow for large amounts of functional daylight in the public areas , reducing the use of artificial light and enhancing the quality of the interior spaces as a multifunctional citizen ’ s forum .
www . timberiq . co . za // APRIL / MAY 2021 17