CoWorking Port

Master Thesis
Maja Magdalena Koszulinska
Architecture & Design
Aalborg University
May 2015

89
CoWorking Port

Aalborg University
Architecture & Design

Semester: MSc 04
Project period: February - May 2015
Pages: 87

Architectural supervisor:
Claus Bonderup, Professor
Department of Architecture, Design & Media
Technology, Aalborg University

Technical supervisor:
Lars Damkilde, Professor
Department of Civil Engineering in Esbjerg
Aalborg University

Maja Magdalena Koszulińska

Project group: ma4-ark48

1
2
ABSTRACT

The intention of this project is to create a new

space, which will serve the people of the city
of Porto. Moreover, the project will focus on a
coworking space for young professionals.

The uniqueness of the city architecture was

the starting point for the design and a leading
value. Being inspired by the unconventional
character of the designing area the main focus
for the design was to use all of its advantages.
The aim was to revitalise the site, so it will be an
interesting place on the city map.

3
4
CONTENT

Abstract 3 Presentation 31
Concept 32
Introduction 7 Concept of the transition 38
Method 10 Masterplan 39
Tectonic 11 Axonometry diagram 40
Plan 42
Programme 13 Elevations 50
Coworking 14 Interior 54
Programme 15 Sections 58
Structure 60
Analysis 17 Detail 61
Portugal 18 Conclusion 62
Porto 20
Climate in Porto 22 Process 65
Site in a context 23 Location on the site 66
Site 24 Tests of the shape 67
Views from the site 26 Elevation / windows 68
Inspiration 28 Dayilight 69
Vision 29 Materials 71
Construction 72
Interior 74

References 76

Appendix 78

5
6
INTRODUCTION

7
8
INTRODUCTION

The thesis has evolved from an architectural

competition for a coworking space in Porto in
which the project also competed.

The project’s focus is on the space to work for

young people as well as on revitalizing the site
area.

The city of Porto is a well known touristic

destination and every year many people visits
it. However, it does not help the local people
to feel good in the centre of their city. Many of
them are escaping into the suburbs, leaving the
centre for tourists and a night life.

The aim of the project is to create a coworking

space very close to the old city centre to revive
the area. It will provide a good conditions for
freelancers and independent contractors,
which should stimulate a development of
entrepreneurship and local community.

9
METHOD

Good architecture must simultaneously fulfill Additionally, it implies iterativeness. It means Additionally, the project was also prepared for
various criterias. Aesthetics of a designed that at every stage the current results must a competition with a deadline in the middle
building is only a piece of a puzzle which be evaluated and before they are satisfying of April 2015. This required reaching the
involves such aspects as functionality, the designer may need to return to a previous presentation phase of the integrated design
sustainability, or technical requirements and phases. Different methods are used to assess process very early, what allowed to perceive
limitations. The process of designing a building the project during the process, such as creating problems which would later be significantly
is complicated and involves knowledge physical models, sketching, 3D modelling, CAD harder to solve.
and specialists from different branches that drawing, lightning or construction simulation
cowork with each other on different stages. and analysis with software like Velux Daylight
Furthermore, it is not possible to assess all Visualizer or Robot Structural Analysis.
requirements at early stages of a project, what
may lead to unsatisfactory results or delays. Due to the diverse and demanding location of the
site during the designing phase various building
In this project the Integrated Design Process shapes were considered. Many directions
was applied to improve the workflow and thus proved to be unsatisfactory on different levels
assure that the final results will meet all the criteria of the analysis because they did not solve all the
for a good architecture. The integrated design aspects such as blending in the surrounding or
process consists of five phases – problem, construction limitations. This required repeating
analysis, sketching, synthesis and presentation. various phases until reaching satisfying results.

10
TECTONIC

Nowadays, the capabilities in architecture are Resistance” says, that architecture has to have “The bulldozing of an irregular topography
almost unlimited. Whatever the architect will an authentic connection to a place. into a flat site is clearly a technocratic gesture
design, it can be built, anywhere. The fact that which aspires to a condition of absolute
limitations almost do not exist, allows to let the “The fundamental strategy of Critical placelessness, whereas the terracing of
imagination run wild. This leads to having the Regionalism is to mediate the impact of the same site to receive the stepped form of
same architecture all around the world – It is the universal civilisation with elements derived a building is an engagement in the act of
same in terms of presented values, where the ‘indirectly’ from the peculiarities of a particular ‘cultivating’ the site.”
focus is put on creating an architecture which place.”
will suit the designer and the client, but not Designers cannot adjust the site to their ideas,
necessarily the environment. Critical Regionalism is about making it should be the opposite. The topography,
architecture which coexists with the climate or light should be a designing factor
The globalisation in architecture creates a surrounding. The good design needs to be a which will help to generate/shape/create
surrounding that does not any more have its part of the whole, not separate element. Critical something unique.
identity. As a result, the architecture feels out Regionalism does not mean that architecture
of place or the place loses its uniqueness cannot be modern – it should be. But with Steven Holl said: “Architecture surrounds you,
completely. respect to the place and nature. in the same way as music surrounds you”.
Thus, it should not be without a soul, but rather
Kenneth Frampton in his “Towards a Critical full of values and harmony.
Regionalism: Six Points for an Architecture of

11
12
PROGRAMME

13
 Place of work before coworking
At home
COWORKING In a traditional office
No fixed location
In a small shared office
In a coffe shop
Coworking space is a fairly fresh idea for a place In a library
to work for people from different branches. In In a business center
the era of the Internet and “global village” many Other
people, especially among freelancers such as
software developers and graphic designers, Business network 80%
started working remotely from their homes.

While initially this may seem to be a great

opportunity, because one can avoid costs
Income 38%
and time of transportation as well as work in OFFICE
a comfortable environment, in a long term 22%
HOME
perspective it brings many disadvantages.
58%
At home there are many new distractions, the 1%
Private life 60%
place is very monotonic what often limit one’s
1% 6%
creativity and simply there is no one to talk with.
Hence, people started seeking other places to 3%
work. 5%
Social circle 92%
4%
Natural and still very popular choice are cafes,
but they do not solve the problem completely.
Therefore, groups of people begun renting
Productivity 75%
places to create their own offices and with
time first commercial coworking spaces were
opened.

Less isolated 86%

Nowadays, a demand for this kind of offices
is still growing and every bigger city needs to
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 A positive impact
offer a space for freelancers as well as for small
Number of coworking spaces worldwide on independent workers
companies like startups.
Fig. 2.1. Coworking statistics (Infographicsmania, 2012)
14
PROGRAMME

The programme for the project consists of COWORK SPACE 1500 m2

functions divided into two groups: for private LOBBY 60 m2

and public use. In the private part there is a
ADMINISTRATION
coworking space with group rooms, dining
Offices 30 m2
area with kitchen and printing rooms. In the
Meeting area 20 m2
public part there is a restaurant, bar, gym and Archives 30 m2
conference rooms. Restroom 40 m2

SERVICES
Printing area 20 m2
Stationery 15 m2
Zen space 80 m2
Kitchen 60 m2
Dining area 120 m2
Bar 80 m2
Technical room 25 m2
Meeting area 160 m2
Conference room 200 m2
Group activities area 160 m2
Proffesional support office 30 m2
Restroom

PUBLIC GYM 350 m2

GREEN SPACES

PARKING 50 places

Fig. 2.2. Programme (AWA Competitions, 2015)

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16
ANALYSIS

17
PORTUGAL
PORTO

Portugal is located in the western part of the

Iberian Peninsula and is the most western
country in the continental Europe. Its only
land border neighbour is Spain (on north and
east) and on west and south it is bordered
by the the Atlantic Ocean. The landscape of
northern Portugal is characterised by hills and
mountains, crossed by several rivers while the
southern part is mostly plain.

The two biggest cities are Lisbon (the capital

of Portugal) and Porto. Both are located on
the western coastline and have population of
respectively 550.000 and 237.000 inhabitants
and their metropolitan areas reach respectively
2 and 1.4 million people.

Fig. 3.1. Map of Portugal (Wikipedia, 2015)

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Fig. 3.2. City of Portugal Fig. 3.3. Seaside in Portugal

Fig. 3.4. Azenhas do Mar – city on a cliff Fig. 3.5. Lisbon

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PORTO

Porto (also known in English as Oporto) is a city

located in the northern part of Portugal along a
side of the Douro river estuary. It is one of the
oldest cities in Europe and in 1996 its historical
centre was proclaimed a World Heritage Site
by UNESCO. Its rich architecture every year
attracts millions of tourist which can enjoy the
famous port wine named after the city and is
stored in cellars along the Duoro river.

On the opposite, southern side of the river lies

the city of Vila Nova De Gaia. Both steep banks Fig. 3.6. Old city centre
are connected by remarkable bridges built by
such engineers as Gustave Eiffel and Edgar
Cardoso. Dense, historical centre of Porto is full
of characteristic steep and narrow streets and
diverse architecture.

Fig. 3.7. Ponte Luis I bridge

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Fig. 3.8. City square in the old city centre Fig. 3.9. Typical Porto street

Fig. 3.10. Cascades of tarraces Fig. 3.11. Famous port wine cellars
21
 Average high (°C) Avarage low (°C)
30 Average high (°C) Avarage low (°C)
30 Average high (°C) Avarage low (°C)
30
22.5
22.5

CLIMATE IN PORTO 22.5

15
15
15
7.5
7.5
Portugal is one of the warmest European
7.5
0
countries and the climate there can be defined

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December
0
as a mediterranean climate.

January

February

March

AprilApril

May May

JuneJune

July July

August

September

October

November

December
0

January

February

March

August

September

October

November

December
Porto has warm, dry summers and mild, rainy
winters. However, even during winter the long
periods with sun and mild temperatures are Fig. 3.12. Average temperatures in Porto (Wikipedia, 2015)
Mean monthly sunshine hours
common. 320.0 Mean monthly sunshine hours
During the summer the average temperature is 320.0
Mean monthly sunshine hours
between 16°C and 27°C. The occasional heat 320.0
240.0
waves are possible and then temperature can 240.0

reach even 40°C. 240.0

160.0
In winter time the average temperature is 5°C in 160.0

the morning and rises into 15°C in the afternoon. 160.0

80.0
80.0
Very seldom the temperature falls below 0°C at
night. 80.0
0.0
0.0

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December
January

February

March

AprilApril

May May

JuneJune

July July

August

September

October

November

December
0.0

January

February

March

August

September

October

November

December
Fig. 3.13. Mean monthly sunshine hours in Porto (Wikipedia, 2015)

Average daylight hours

15:05 Average daylight hours
15:05
Average daylight hours
15:05
13:36
13:36

13:36
12:07
12:07

12:07
10:38
10:38

10:38
9:10
9:10
January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December
January

February

March

April April

May May

JuneJune

July July

August

September

October

November

December
9:10
January

February

March

August

September

October

November

December
Fig. 3.14. Average daylight hours in Porto (ClimaTemps, 2015)
22
SITE IN A CONTEXT Site of the project is placed close to the old city The site is an unused area, which is very
center of Porto, which is listed by UNESCO. The visible from the bridges and the opposite side
specific character of the buildings creates the of the river. The empty space disturbs the
atmosphere one of a kind. Location between characteristic city panorama.
two bridges, on a high slope of the riverside
make the area even more attractive.

Old city center

Site

Fig. 3.15. Site in a context

23
 R.
de
Sã
SITE

o
Lu
is
The site can be described as an area which is
full of potential, with a great view to the bridge 4 2
Ponte Luis I, the hallmark of the city. One part
of the site is located on a steep, southern slope 1
and ends just on the riverbank. In the middle
of the site there is a road which goes partially
ias
above the ground. The only current function of Sou
sa D
.
o Gen
the area is a car park which is located under R. d
the road. The northern part of the site is much
less steep, partially completely flat.
s
inha
F onta
das
seio
Pas

Eiffel
G ustavo
Av. de

Fig. 3.16. Situtation

24
 1 2

3 4

Fig. 3.17. Photos of the site

25
VIEWS FROM THE SITE

The views are the great advantage of the

site. Two of the bridges are clearly visible as
well as the opposite side of the river, where
characteristic cellars for port wine and a lot of
greenery are placed. Directly on the western
side of the site the buildings of the old city
centre starts.

Fig. 3.18. Views from the site

26
27
INSPIRATION

In the city of Porto I found very characteristic

and inspiring slim shape of houses. The
buildings are principally a parallelepiped form,
sharing side walls in a row. The narrow shapes
fill the entire city centre. They are especially
exposed on the banks by the Douro river, where
countless little houses placed on different levels
create a colourful mozaique of the city.

Fig. 3.19. Characteristic shapes

Fig. 3.20. Colourful mozaique of the city

28
VISION

The good building is not one that hurts the landscape, but one which makes
the landscape more beautiful than it was before the building was built.
— Frank Lloyd Wright

29
30
PRESENTATION

31
CONCEPT The site inspires through being an empty gap in
the urban panorama. The shape of the building
should blend in the character of the surrounding
buildings and continue the rhythm of the city.

The aim of this project is to fill the urban gap

with a modern design with a respect for the
environment.

Fig. 4.1. Concept drawing

32
Fig. 4.2. Porto inspiration painting
33
34
Fig. 4.3. Visualisation from the river side
35
36
Fig. 4.4. Visualisation of the building in its surrounding
37
CONCEPT OF THE TRANSITION

The idea of the transition, the characteristic part

of the design, evolved in an early stage of the
designing.

On an account of having two parts of the site

divided by the road, the building was also
divided into two. The small sections, imitating
the surrounding city buildings volumes, were
then spaced not to be in one line.

The necessity to connect the two parts led

to the solution that one of the volumes will be
extended, creating a transition between the
two of them. Two ways of achieving this result
were possible – under or above the road. The
way of placing it under the road would result in
having a dark corridor that would be reduced Fig. 4.5. Concept of the transition
to the technical role. Therefore, the transition
was created above the road, with big windows
providing a great view to the city. Thus, the
connection was emphasised as an advantage
of the whole design, making it more unique and
distinctive.

38
MASTERPLAN

The master plan presents the overall urban

development on the site. N

On the northern part, where the designed

building meets the existing ones a public
square was created. It will serve as a meeting
point, placed next to the gym, cafe and green
leisure area. In order to revitalise the area,
beside the indoor gym, the outdoor gym among
the trees of the green area was planned.

On the southern part of the site, which is located

on the steep slope terraces were designed.
As an inspiration served the existing concrete
walls, which were built to reinforce the hill,
however they are perceived as disfiguring the
area. The designed terraces will have the same
function of reinforcing the ground. Moreover,
they will serve as a green gardens with a
fascinating panorama.

Cascades of the terraces connect the building

with the level of the river.

Fig. 4.6. Masterplan

39
 Green field for leisure

Main entrance to the building

Axonometry diagram

Public square with a café

Outdoor gym

Restaurant

Terraces with
panorama view

Parking under the road

Greenery

Direct exit to the green

terraces

Terraces connecting the building

with the river ground level

Fig. 4.7. Axonometry with functions

40
Fig. 4.8. Visualisation of the public square
41
PLAN

The level 0 was set where is the car parking Technical rooms 64.5m2
and the most flat part of the site. The building Service room 5.4m2
has in total seven floors and on most of them Bathroom 26m2
the coworking areas are intertwined with Locker rooms 66m2
other functions. Shared kitchen 90m2
The special character has the Zen space, Dining area 115m2
which is 8m high and 4.5m wide. It has a big Lounge areas 274.5m2
vertical window, which is the only source of Group rooms 283m2
light. The idea for the place was to create a Coworking space 1024m2
room with calm and inspiring atmosphere. Printing/stationery 40m2
Gym 321m2
The other function is a restaurant with a view Conference rooms 251m2
to the bridge Ponte Luis I from the inside as Restaurant 145m2
well as from the spacious terrace. Zen space 60m2
From the northern side, on the square, a Professional support office 30m2
cafe and gym were designed – functions Entrance halls 75m2
which will gather people and help to revive Lobby 50m2
the place. Bar 104m2
Archives 34.4m2
Administration 17.4m2
Office 37.2m2
Meeting area 164m2
Cloak room 14m2
Coffee bar 18m2
Magasin 7.5m2
Restaurant kitchen 36m2
Meeting room 43m2
Terraces 158m2

42
 B

C C

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

Drawing: Plan, level 0

B Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.9. Plan level 0

43
 B

C C

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

Drawing: Plan, level +1

B Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.10. Plan level +1

44
 B

C C

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

B Drawing: Plan, level +2

Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.11. Plan level +2

45
 B

C C

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

Drawing: Plan, level -1

B Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.12. Plan level -1

46
 B

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

B
Drawing: Plan, level -2

Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.13. Plan level -2

47
 B

A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc 04

Drawing: Plan, level -3

B Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.14. Plan level -3

48
 A A

TITLE: CoWorking Port Semester M.Sc.04

Drawing: Plan, level -4

Maja Koszulinska
Scale: 1:100 Date: 27.05.2015

Fig. 4.15. Plan level -4

49
ELEVATIONS

Fig. 4.16. Elevation south

50
Fig 4.17. Elevation north

Fig. 4.18. Elevation south from the street

51
 Fig. 4.19. Elevation east
52
Fig. 4.20. Elevation west
53
INTERIOR

Part of the plan, level -2, showing the materials.

The wooden floor in the very bright colour
were used. The chosen furniture is modern
and functional. The colour of the interior is a
natural bright wood, white, grey and black. As
a contrast to the calm colours, the ‘box-rooms’
are designed as dark sunny yellow.

Fig. 4.21. Interior plan with materials

54
Fig. 4.22. Visualisation of the coworking space
55
 Fig. 4.23. Visualisation of the lounge area
56
Fig. 4.24. Visualisation of the zen area
57
SECTIONS

+ 10.5

+ 6.5

+ 4.0

+ 2.5

+
- 0.5 - 0.0

- 4.0

- 8.0

- 12.0

Fig. 4.25. Section B-B

58
 + 4.0

+
- 0.0

- 4.0

- 8.0

- 12.0

- 16.0

Fig. 4.26. Section A-A

+ 10.5

+ 6.5

+ 2.5

- 0.5

Fig. 4.27. Section C-C

59
STRUCTURE

The structure of the building was designed in

concrete. The bearing walls and columns are
on a grid, repeating the division of the building
into segments. The interior is influenced by
the structure – the functions are distributed
according to the grid.
The bearing walls are designed from in-situ
concrete in order to achieve the interesting
texture on the outside walls. As the material
of the bearing wall should be visible from the
outside, the insulation layer is placed from the
inside of the building.
This solution was first considered as incorrect,
but many references confirm the choice. For
instance the Vodafone Headquarters in Porto
(Barbosa & Guimaraes architects) or Colour
Concrete House in Yokohama (architectural
office TNA), were made with the same principle.
This is the only solution where the use of the
materials is honest. In other case the concrete
bearing wall with insulation has to be covered
with concrete plates and pretend to be a solid
Fig. 4.28. Structure diagram
concrete.

60
DETAIL Reinforced in-situ concrete 70mm
Separation layer 10mm
Isoboard 80mm
Waterproofing membrane
Lightweight concrete with slope 100mm
Plasterboard 125mm Bubbledeck slab 280mm
Vapour control layer
Insulation 80mm
Air gap 40mm
In-situ concrete 280mm

Roof detail
Wooden flooring
Underlay
Lightweight concrete 30mm Wooden flooring
Insulation 50mm Underlay
Reinforced concrete bubbledeck 280mm Lightweight concrete 30mm
Installation space with suspending structure Insulation 50mm
Suspended ceiling Reinforced concrete bubbledeck 280mm
Installation space with suspending structure
Suspended ceiling

Plasterboard 125mm
Vapour control layer
Insulation 80mm
Air gap 40mm
In-situ concrete 280mm

TITLE: CoWorking Port

Section window Slab with wall connection
Drawing: Details

Scale: 1:10

Fig. 4.29. Details

61
 CONCLUSION

The main focus through the designing process “A building should appear to grow easily from
was to create a building which will respect the its site and be shaped to harmonize with its
neighbourhood. The main guides were found surroundings (…)” —Frank Lloyd Wright
by extracting the most characteristic shape – a
slim cuboid. The building was formed to have a perceptible
To make the building more integrated into connection with the neighbourhood, but
the surrounding, its volume was divided into representing the architecture of these days.
sections and placed wall by wall on different The similarity is through the overall principle of
levels and depth. shape, to respectively fill the gap in the urban
fabric.
The topography of the site formed the final The designed proposal belongs to the
shape of the building. One part is on a steep panorama repeating the same rhythm of the
slope, more like a terraced building, while the city.
other is placed on a flat area and, together
with the existing buildings, it creates a public
square.

62
Fig. 4.30. Visualisation from the riverside
63
64
PROCESS

65
LOCATION ON THE SITE

One of the first designing stages was to test

different placing on the site. Many options were
considered, however quite early the idea of the
narrow boxes and a transition above the road
evolved.

Fig. 5.1. Tests of different building locations

66
TESTS OF THE SHAPE

After the primary idea was chosen, the tests of

the proportions and divisions were performed.
Although the basic idea was fixed, the tests of
the final shape took a long time. The variations
were not only about the shape itself, but also
how the building suit the surrounding.

Fig. 5.2. Tests of different building shapes

67
ELEVATION / WINDOWS

When the outline of the building was nearly

fixed, the tests of the openings were made.
The challenge was to create an interesting
look, but not to overload the elevation. It was
also important to keep in mind issues like
overheating when using too big windows.

Fig. 5.3. Tests of different elevations

68
DAYLIGHT

The daylight factor simulation was made in

Velux Visualizer. The chosen floor for the tests
was level -2, which has the biggest depth from
the windows and has the biggest area. As the
result shows, the average of minimum 2% of
daylight is fulfilled. However, in some places
there is a lack of light, but this should not be an
disadvantage. In that places the yellow boxes
were designed, which serve as a ‘private rooms’
and have internal lights. The other solution is
that in darker places there are lounge areas.
They does not require a daylight, since it can
be a zone for relaxing and chatting.

Fig. 5.4. Daylight factor simulation

69
 The materials for the building were chosen by
the criteria of modern look, but at the same
time suiting the old surrounding. The materials
used in the design were corten steel, concrete
(in-situ) and coloured concrete. These three
materials were applied alternately in order to
achieve the look of separate sections.

Fig. 5.5. Visualisation prepared for the competition

70
MATERIALS

Fig. 5.6. Corten steel

Fig. 5.7. Coloured in-situ concrete Fig. 5.8. In-situ concrete

71
CONSTRUCTION

Reinforced concrete was chosen as the material In the structure the prefabricated version of the
for the structural system of the building. The slab is used, which works as a one-way slab.
constructing elements are bearing walls and The slab is supported by beams hidden in the
columns. thickness of the slab and by bearing walls.
For the slab the BubbleDeck system was
chosen. It is a new technology, around 20 years
on the market, but becomes more popular
thanks to its advantages.
The difference between BubbleDeck and
classic slab is that Bubbledeck has plastic balls
which are replacing the concrete in the middle
of a classic slab, which does not contribute to
its structural performance. As a result the slab
is lighter and can work in wider spans.
The wider spans were the main reason why this
solution is used. The building is designed as
an open plan, so the number of columns were
limited to minimum.
Moreover, the Bubbledeck slab is much more
sustainable than classical. According to
producer, 35% less concrete is used in the slab
compared to the traditional floor system. It has
the impact on the whole structure, as the total
weight of the construction is lighter.
Furthermore the balls for the slab are made
from recycled plastic and all materials used
can be reused upon demolition.
Fig. 5.9. Construction scheme.

72
The prefabricated BubbleDeck slab needs Furthermore the beam in the axis ‘M’ was
to be supported by bearing walls or beams. calculated, to get the reactions in the point of
However beams are in the thickness of the slab, connection with the column.
which means that slab creates a flat ceiling and For the calculations the prefabricated beam
thickness of the slab is the final thickness. from concrete C25 was used.
Robot Structural Analysis was used to calculate
To calculate the accurate thickness of the slab, the reactions on the beam. Two separate Fig. 5.10. Double span beam

the bending-strenght design for a rectangular calculations were made, for a beam under the
cross section was performed - according to roof and under the slab.
producer recommendations. As a result the maximum force on the beam
The calculations where based on the part of a from roof is 681kN, while 970kN for the beam
slab between axis ‘L’ and ‘M’, where the span under the slab.
is the biggest.
To calculate the maximum bending moment the The next step was to calculate the dimensions
model of bearing walls and columns were build of the column. The columns of 400mm x 400mm
in Robot. Calculations of the roof loads were are dimensioned to take forces of 2508kN. The
made manual and implemented in Robot. The applied force for the column on the first floor,
maximum bending moment for the slab is 122,6 extracted from Robot, is 1651kN, so the column
kNm. will hold. Unfortunately, the column of the same
After calculations, taking into account the dimensions was not able to hold the forces in
span of the slab, the thickness of 280mm was the ground floor. Hence, the dimensions were
chosen. changed into 450mm x 450mm. As a result, the
applied force is 2653kN while the column can
hold 3318kN.

All of the calculations were made according to Fig. 5.11. Placement of the beam – in axis M
Eurocodes and can be found in Appendix.

73
 Fig. 5.12. Interior visualisation - competition version
74
75
REFERENCES

Frampton, K., 2001. Studies in Tectonic Culture. Cambridge: MIT press.

Frampton, K., 1983. Towards a Critical Regionalism: Six points for an architecture of resistance. Seattle: Bay Press.
Knudstrup, M., 2004. Integrated Design Process in Problem-Based Learning, Aalborg University.
Philips, D. Yamashita, M., 2012. Detail in Contemporary Architecture. London: Laurence King Publishing.
Wikipedia. (2015) Porto. [Online] Available from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porto. [Accessed: 16.05.2015].
Wikipedia. (2015) Portugal. [Online] Available from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal. [Accessed: 16.05.2015].
ClimaTemps. (2015) Porto Climate & Temperature. [Online] Available from: http://www.porto.climatemps.com/. [Accessed: 18.05.2015].
AWA Competitions. (2015) Competition materials. [Online] Available from: https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29489473/OPO_CW%20files.zip.
[Accessed: 20.01.2015].
Infographicsmania. (2012) Coworking works. [Online] Available from: http://infographicsmania.com/coworking-works/. [Accessed: 27.04.2015]
Eurocode 0. 1990. Basis of structural design.
Eurocode 1. 1991. Actions on structures.
Eurocode 2. 1992. Design of concrete structures.
BubbleDeck. (2015) [Online] Available from: http://www.bubbledeck-uk.com/. [Accessed: 27.03.2015]

ILLUSTRATIONS

Chapter page “Introduction”:

1. http://stylecarrot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/sash-windows-ousins-and-cousing-photo-jack-hobhouse.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
2. http://s3.transloadit.com.s3.amazonaws.com/4b30ae61b7c84e42b6be045272ec3211/ee/33c4d5c06891eaab45434faba458d3/img-8821.jpg.
[Accessed: 17.05.2015].
3. http://41.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0hguoJTqq1qd5e3ao1_540.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
4. http://ad009cdnb.archdaily.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/52e5a89fe8e44e990600018f_center-for-high-yield-rowing-pocinho-alvaro-
fernandes-andrade_43.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
5. http://trendland.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/sant-francesc-conversion-architecture.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].

Chapter page “Programme”:

1. https://s3.amazonaws.com/blog-food-pics/coworkrs1.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
2. http://ad009cdnb.archdaily.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/54bf1fd7e58eceef700001c4_office-for-architecture-studio-and-coworking-space-
as-built_portada.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
76
3. http://jumpstartmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/TheLoft.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
4. http://ad009cdnb.archdaily.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/54bf1f4ae58ece56370001a2_office-for-architecture-studio-and-coworking-space-
as-built_06_asbuilt.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
5. https://res.cloudinary.com/wework/image/upload/s--CD1wgl_u--/c_scale,fl_progressive,q_jpegmini:1,w_2048/v1420576471/wework.com/
locations/new-york/charging-bull/20140217_Charging_Bull_Additional-56.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].

Chapter page “Analysis”:

1. http://www.ccdr-n.pt/sites/default/files/50.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
2. http://t.wallpaperweb.org/wallpaper/buildings/1600x1200/LisbonEstremaduraPortugal.jpg. [Accessed: 18.05.2015].
3-5. Own photos.

Chapter page “Presentation”:

1-5. Own pictures.

Chapter page “Process”:

1-5. Own pictures.

Fig. 2.1. http://infographicsmania.com/coworking-works/. [Accessed: 27.04.2015]

Fig. 2.2. https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/29489473/OPO_CW%20files.zip. [Accessed: 20.01.2015].
Fig. 3.1. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/48/Portugal_location_map.svg. [Accessed: 19.05.2015].
Fig. 3.2. http://getwallpapers.net/wallpapers/l/1440x900/4/cityscapes_portugal_go_1440x900_3081.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
Fig. 3.3. http://hdscreen.me/walls/general/69-2961299-1920x1200.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
Fig. 3.4. http://www.nortonne.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Azenhas_do_Mar.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
Fig. 3.5. http://www.infohostels.com/immagini/news/1797.jpg. [Accessed: 18.05.2015].
Fig. 3.6-11. Own photos.
Fig. 3.12-14. http://www.porto.climatemps.com/. [Accessed: 18.05.2015]
Fig. 3.15-16. Own pictures.
Fig. 3.17-18. Own photos.
Fig. 3.19. Own pictures.
Fig. 3.20. http://img1.goodfon.su/original/2048x1350/6/2b/portugal-porto-vila-nova-de.jpg. [Accessed: 17.05.2015].
Fig. 4.1-30. Own pictures.
Fig. 5.1. Own photos.
Fig. 5.2-5. Own pictures.
Fig. 5.6. http://static1.squarespace.com/
static/51e43055e4b086b2323bce24/51eee58be4b0eee1ef4a63f7/51f18256e4b040a439cded50/1425319470793/ebb6.jpg?format=2500w.
[Accessed: 19.05.2015].
Fig. 5.7. https://mellotone70up.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/p1000734.jpg. [Accessed: 19.05.2015].
Fig. 5.8. https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5461/7045151635_c37e631e78_b.jpg. [Accessed: 19.05.2015].
Fig. 5.9-12. Own pictures.
77
Slab APPENDIX

Loads

Layers:

• lightweight concrete 35mm – 21kN/m3 — 21kN/m3 · 0.035m = 0.735kN/m2

• installation 30mm – 0.45kN/m3 — 0.45kN/m3 · 0.03m = 0.0135kN/m2
• lightweight concrete 10mm – 21kN/m3 — 21kN/m3 · 0.01m = 0.21kN/m2
• wooden floor 15mm – 19kN/m3 — 19kN/m3 · 0.015m = 0.285kN/m2

safety factor (dead load) — 1.35

(0.735 + 0.0135 + 0.21 + 0.285) · 1.35 = 1.2435 · 1.35 = 1.68[kN/m3 ]

total dead load: 1.68kN/m2

Function of the building: office.

According to Eurocodes, live load for office buildings: 3kN/m2

safety factor (live load) — 1.5

3kN/m2 · 1.5 = 4.5kN/m2

partition walls — 1.2kN/m2

1.2kN/m2 · 1.5 = 1.8kN/m2

1.8kN/m2 + 4.5kN/m2 = 6.3kN/m2

total live load: 6.3kN/m2

Chosen slab

Type of slab used: Bubbledeck BD280, ball size ⊘225mm

msd · DBD · 1.96
µsds = ≤ 0.2
(dB 3 · fck )

78
where:
µsds — relative bending moment in the ball zone
msd — max bending moment [M N m]
DBD — ball diameter [m]
dB — static height of the BubbleDeck [m]
fck — characteristic strength according to DIN 1045-1 [M N/m2 ]

msd · DBD · 1.96

≤ 0.2
dB 3 · fck
msd = 112.56kN m = 0.19765M N m

DBD = 0.225m

dB = 0.25m

fck = 45M N/m2

0.11256M N m · 0.225m · 1.96

≤ 0.2
(0.25m)3 · 45
0.049
≤ 0.2
0.7
0.07 ≤ 0.2

Beam

All calculations are done for the beam in the ”M” axis.

Calculations for the beam with slab load.

5.17kN/m2 — slab load

6.3kN/m2 — slab live load
1.68kN/m2 — slab dead load

5.17kN/m2 + 6.3kN/m2 + 1.68kN/m2 = 13.15kN/m2

13.15kN/m2 · 9.22m = 121.6kN/m

l = 12.5m — length of the beam

79
25kN/m3 — concrete beam load C25
w = 0.4m — width of the beam
h = 0.28m — height of the beam

0.28m · 0.4m · 25 = 2.8kN/m

q = 121.2kN/m + 2.8kN/m = 124kN/m

To calculate reactions on the beam, the Robot Structural Analysis was used.

Fz = 969.99kN ≃ 970kN — the value of the reaction in the point of connection of the slab with a column (from RSA). Slab load.

Calculations for the beam with roof load.

• snow load
s = µ · ce · ct · sk
sk = 0.1kN/m2 — the characteristic value for the terrain
ce = 1 — the exposure factor
ct = 1 — the thermic factor
µ = 0.8 – the form of the roof factor
s = 0.8 · 1 · 1 · 0.1kN/m2 = 0.08kN/m2
0.08kN/m2 · 1.5 = 0.12kN/m2
• live load – roof = 0.4kN/m2
0.4kN/m2 · 1.5 = 0.6kN/m2
total live load – roof = 0.72kN/m2

• dead load – roof

insulation 150mm — 0.45kN/m3 — 0.45kN/m3 · 0.15m = 0.068kN/m2
asphalt felt — 0.1kN/m2
Bubbledeck slab — 6.25kN/m2
0.068kN/m2 + 0.1kN/m2 + 6.25kN/m2 = 6.42kN/m2
total dead load – roof = 6.42kN/m2
(6.24kN/m2 · 1.35 + 0.72kN/m2 ) · 9.22m = 87.1kN/m

Fz 2 = 681kN — the value of the reaction in the point of connection of the slab with a column (from RSA). Roof load.

80
Column

Column on the 1st floor

970kN · 2 + 681kN = 2621kN

Column concrete C25

h = 4m
w = 0.4m
l = 0.4m

4m · 0.4m · 0.4m = 0.64m3

2 · 0.64m3 · 25kN/m3 = 32kN

2621kN + 32kN = 2653kN

Column 400mm × 400mm

Dimensions of the column:

Dimensions of the column
w = 400mm
h = 400mm
l = 4000mm

Concrete 32 — fck = 35M P a

Steel ⊘25 — fyk = 550M P a

Modulus of elasticity — Esk = 2 · 105 M P a (for steel)

Esk 2 · 105 M P a
Esd = =
γs 1.2
The concrete design compressive strength:
fck 35M P a
γc = 1.4 fcd = = = 25M P a
γc 1.4
The steel design compressive strength:
fyk 550M P a
γs = 1.2 fyd = fyd = = 458.3M P a
γs 1.2

81
Ultimate limit state

Slenderness ratio – λ:
l b · h3
λ= ! I= b·h=A
I 12
A

√ √
l· 12 4000mm · 12
λ= = = 34.6
h 400mm
The reinforcement ratio – ρ:

Asc 8 · 253 ∗ π4
ρ= = = 0.024 = 2.4% {0.2% ≤ 2.4% ≤ 4.0%}
Ac 400 · 400
Beginning modulus of elasticity – E0,crd :
" #
1000 · fcd f or fcd ≤ 25M P a
E0,crd =
0.75 · E0d f or fcd > 25M P a

E0,crd = 1000 · fcd = 1000 · 25M P a = 25000M P a

Critical tension – σ:

• concrete
fcd 25M P a
σcrd = fcd ·λ2
= = 11.52M P a
1+ π 2 ·E0,crd
1 + 28900M Pa
24674M P a

The relationship between reinforcement and the concrete modulus of elasticity – λ:

Ecm
Ec,ef f =
1+ϕ
Ecm = 34000M P a (concrete class)
ϕ = 1.5
34000M P a
Ec,ef f = = 136000M P a
1 + 1.5
Esk
λ= = 14.7
Ec,ef f
• steel
σs = λ · σcrd = 14.7 · 11.52M P a = 169.34M P a
σs < fyd ⇒ 169.34M P a < 458.3M P a

82
Column load capacity Ultimate limit state

Nc = Ac · σcrd = 400mm · 400mm · 11.52 · 103 P a = 1843.2kN Slenderness ratio – λ:

Ns = Asc · σs = 490.9mm2 · 8 · 169.34 · 103 P a = 665kN l b · h3

λ= ! I= b·h=A
I 12
A
Ncr = Nc + Ns = 1843.2kN + 665kN = 2508.2kN
√ √
The force extracted from Robot on the column on 1st floor is: l· 12 4000mm · 12
λ= = = 30.8
h 450mm
970kN + 681kN = 1651kN
The reinforcement ratio – ρ:
2508.2kN > 1651kN Asc 8 · 253 ∗ π4
ρ= = = 0.019 = 1.9% {0.2% ≤ 1.9% ≤ 4.0%}
Thus, the column is dimensioned to hold. Ac 450 · 450
Beginning modulus of elasticity – E0,crd :
" #
Column in the ground floor E0,crd =
1000 · fcd f or fcd ≤ 25M P a
0.75 · E0d f or fcd > 25M P a
Column 450mm × 450mm E0,crd = 1000 · fcd = 1000 · 25M P a = 25000M P a

Dimensions of the column: Critical tension – σ:

w = 450mm
h = 450mm • concrete
l = 4000mm fcd 25M P a
σcrd = fcd ·λ2
= = 12.75M P a
1+ π 2 ·E0,crd
1 + 23716M Pa
24674M P a
Concrete 32 — fck = 35M P a
The relationship between reinforcement and the concrete modulus of elasticity – λ:
Steel ⊘25 — fyk = 550M P a
Ecm
Ec,ef f =
Modulus of elasticity — Esk = 2 · 105 M P a (for steel) 1+ϕ
Ecm = 34000M P a (concrete class)
Esk 2 · 105 M P a
Esd = = ϕ = 1.5
γs 1.2
34000M P a
The concrete design compressive strength: Ec,ef f = = 136000M P a
1 + 1.5
fck 35M P a Esk
γc = 1.4 fcd = = = 25M P a λ= = 14.7
γc 1.4 Ec,ef f
• steel
The steel design compressive strength:
σs = λ · σcrd = 14.7 · 12.75M P a = 187.4M P a
fyk 550M P a
γs = 1.2 fyd = fyd = = 458.3M P a σs < fyd ⇒ 169.34M P a < 458.3M P a
γs 1.2

83
Column load capacity

Nc = Ac · σcrd = 450mm · 450mm · 12.75 · 103 P a = 2581.9kN

Ns = Asc · σs = 490.9mm2 · 8 · 187.4 · 103 P a = 736kN

Ncr = Nc + Ns = 2581.9kN + 736kN = 3318kN

The force extracted from Robot on the most exposed and critical column (on the ground floor) is 2621kN .

2621kN < 3318kN

Thus, the column is dimensioned to hold.

84
Additional informations about BubbleDeck.

“Two variants of BubbleDeck were entered into the comparison.

The result was clear – the BubbleDeck building was significant less expensive than the traditional system. The total savings was in the order of 20 %.

Report from AEC Consulting Engineers Ltd. / Professor M.P. Nielsen - The Technical University of Denmark – Enclosure H2.

Comparisons are made between BubbleDeck and solid decks.

Only differences in materials concerning the slabs are considered. Advantages in the building design and building process are not taken into
account.

For the same amount of steel and concrete, BubbleDeck has 40 % larger span and is furthermore 15 % cheaper.
For the same span, BubbleDeck reduces the amount of concrete with 33 %, and reduces the price with 30 %.”

“Parts of the floor construction are pre-fabricated. There are three alternatives:
- Reinforcement Modules in which the bubbles are
trapped between the upper and lower reinforcement
mesh;
- Filigree Elements as above, but also with a pre-
fabricated concrete biscuit cast onto the bottom
reinforcement mesh (permanent formwork);
- Pre-cast Finished Planks in which the reinforcement
modules have been cast into concrete to full finished depth.”

Reference: BubbleDeck. (2013) BubbleDeck Voided Flat Slab Solutions. [Online] Available from:
http://www.bubbledeck-uk.com/pdf/2-BDTechManualv1a.pdf. [Accessed: 11.05.2015]

The beams can be hidden in the deck by spreading the reinforcement to make a space for a beam. Then the concrete is poured to
connect parts together.

The stability of the building:

– the slab is placed on a bearing walls and columns+beams and connected with fixed joint
– prefabricated beam (double span) placed on bearing walls and columns, connected with fixed joint
– column – divided in three parts which are connected in-between by the extension of the reinforcement from one part into the next
one of the whole column
– the bearing walls and columns are connected with fixed joint with the foundation plate

85
86
 Screenshot from Robot Structural Analysis. Double span beam, reactions.

Screenshot from Robot Structural Analysis. Model of the slab with bearing walls and columns.

Screenshot from Robot Structural Analysis. Beam with the additional load of the roof.

87
88