Friday, May 8, 2009

Letter to Gaston

I'm beginning to think about setting a meeting next week. You'll see there are some views on the blog of the site we've chosen for this project. There are two open spaces, separarted by fences that will likely be removed.

Because of the modular approach we're taking, with the kit of parts idea, the students and I feel it would be great to show two different compositions of classes using the kit of parts. The modular unit for each kit is 20'x20', composed of open web joists/trusses that span 20', columns, wall panels and floor structure. I know common flooring for truss construction is corrugated metal with poured concrete, but please research other flooring possibilities. Ideally, the solution for the floor is the same for the ceiling/roof. (Noted that we should propose a "roof finish" (for example) part in the kit that provides rainwater drainage and collection, for nearby irrigation, etc.)

The SIP walls seem to be 4'x8'. Please research the possibility of hanging such walls from the perimeter truss structure. Also check on a rules of thumb chart showing truss depth for a 20' span, with an assumed live and dead load for a classroom (approximate). If the member is 12" deep, then the floor to ceiling ht is 9'.

Regarding the two different compositions, think about one as being 2 modules connected adjacent to each other, for a total class size of 20'x40'. Consider the other as two stacked modules, where 2 classes are provided and each is 20'x20'. The kit needs to provide an elevated walkway and stair system for upper modules. Let' try to hit the ground at as few places as possible, so the walkway would essentially be supported by the structure itself. Think of the walkway as also providing protection from rain for those on it.

Print the site images and make some sketches, then upload them again.

Thanks,
Ed Borlenghi

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