Zaha Hadid Architects is planning to build a scientific research center in Uzbekistan and has taken a low-tech approach to maintaining a comfortable temperature. The eye-catching building features an ingenious passive cooling system inspired by traditional local architecture.
Named after an important 15th century poet, writer, linguist, and politician, the Alisher Navoi International Center for Scientific Research is characterized by large, swooping arches and extensive glass walls. Its overall form mimics the wind-catching towers of traditional architecture in Central Asia and the Middle East, used for centuries to beat the desert heat.
Built of local brick, its curving arches are conceived as hollow structures with openings that capture wind and direct air into the building. During the hottest summer months, this system is supported by several electric fans and water spray to cool the air before circulating it through the building.
When the wind is not blowing, the hollow arched structure naturally creates a chimney effect (also known as the stack effect), allowing warm air to escape through the opening at the top of each arch. This is because warm air naturally rises and escapes, creating a pressure difference that draws in cooler air from below, increasing ventilation throughout the building. Magdalen College’s new library, which recently won the Stirling Prize, also used this technology.
The interior of the Alisher Navoi International Scientific Research Center requires little energy to cool due to its passive design.
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“These cooling principles are reinforced by the day-night cycle, extracting warmer air and trapping cooler air beneath it,” explains Zaha Hadid Architects. “Coupled with the high thermal mass of the center’s structure, it is possible to maintain optimal comfort conditions with minimal energy consumption. Courtyards and skylights bring natural light into the heart of the center, while deep roof overhangs extend to the façade. It provides effective solar shading and allows you to stay comfortable even in summer.”In winter, the sun shines into the building, warming the interior. ”
The research center has an internal area of 23,000 square meters (approximately 250,000 square feet) and includes the Navoi State Literary Museum, research areas, workshops, and storage for a collection of 3,500 historical books and manuscripts. With 13 permanent exhibition halls surrounding a central courtyard, it fosters collaboration between literary education, research, and the performing arts.
There is no word yet on when this is expected to be completed.
Source: Zaha Hadid Architects
