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Click
on images at left for larger color views. [Google Earth link]
For a 1.5km (1 mile) stretch of highway in Utrecht, Kas Oostherhuis
and ONL
were asked to design an acoustical barrier and a showroom
for Hessing,
a seller of high-end luxury and sports cars like Bentley,
Bugatti, and Maserati. Their design responds to the speed
of movement through a streamlined shape that gradually changes
in plan and section across
its length.
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Many acoustical barriers, especially
in the United
States, are composed of prefabricated elements that interlock
end-to-end as long and as high as necessary. Also, they tend
to be of solid construction (concrete, masonry, wood, metal)
to not only reduce noise but also the line of sight for privacy
reasons. In this case, ONL created a wall that is far from
prefabricated or opaque, opting for parametric
design techniques (described below) and a glass skin that
not only allows light and views but also shows off the complex
structure. |
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Parametric design has
been defined as "a method of linking dimensions and
variables to geometry in such a way that when the values change,
the part changes as well." Therefore, using CAD and other
software, the architect can create complex forms that can
be modified easily throughout the design process. Here, it
also enables the design to respond to the contours of the
building site, something that more conventional barriers fail
to accomplish. |
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Like a snake devouring its prey,
the acoustical barrier bulges along its length, creating the
Hessing Cockpit, a showroom
for its many expensive automobiles. It location and orientation
towards the highway must be an intentional move, as the potential
buyer can look outside and daydream about getting that shiny
Lamborghini on the road. Architecturally, this works both
ways, especially at night when
the illuminated showroom displays its wares to those rushing
by at 120kph (75mph).
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Click
on images below for larger color views. |
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