Thesis Proposal

Proposal

This is a proposal for my final thesis project which deals with the redesign of 1000 Continental Square's main structural system. The proposal outlines my plan to replace the existing composite steel system with a concrete system. The final design will most likely use a Filigree slab and beam system for the floor diaphragms which will also act as the lateral system in the long direction of the building. Shear walls will be used in the short direction to replace the existing steel braced frames. This proposal also outlines two breadth studies which will deal with redesigning the lighting system to better utilize the sunlight coming through the curtain walls and layout a architectural floor plan which fits a mid sized AE Firm..

Proposal Summary

This summary is effectively the executive summary from the full proposal posted above along with an expanded section on the two breadth studies.

The areas of breadth concentration can also be found below.

 

Breadth One - Effects of Daylight

            My first breadth study will look at how energy costs can be saved by using daylight. The north side of the building is a continuous glass curtain wall. This should allow a great deal of ambient daylight into the work space which should save on power costs. Additionally, there is also a large curtain wall at the front entrance on the south side of the build, this curtain wall could possibly be used to help light the elevator and lobby space since the harsher direct sunlight is not as good for lighting work spaces. Hand calculations will be conducted to figure out solar angles, solar gain, and daylight levels. All of this will then be used to decide if it would be feasible to introduce a lighting system with zones which are adaptable to various levels of daylight, and perhaps integrate photosensor light controls.

 

Breadth Two - Architectural Design

           The architectural breadth will concentrate on the layout of a mid-sized AE firm in half of one of the typical floors. The design will include features to make the space a more enjoyable and motivating pace to work. The design will incorporate features of the overall building design into the floor plan like curving lines and extensive glazing. Additionally the new design will feature an improve cubicle layout which inspires productivity through ergonomics. The Final design will meet area requirements determined from other AE offices, and will incorporate ideas from professionals currently in the field. The result should be an exciting and adaptive work space.