In 1644, while introducing the mercury barometer, Evangelista Torricelli wrote: “We live submerged at the bottom of an ocean of the element air, which by unquestioned experiments is known to have weight.” This is probably one of the most dramatic statements in the early history of atmospheric science. Not only is this surprising in science, but also in architecture. Indeed, following Torricelli's discovery, we are “submerged” in an element that has properties. Most importantly, these properties, which we call climatic, can influence the way we inhabit. So, since today we can artificially control the climate, the walls are no more the only important element of architecture.
But in a climatic architecture, there is much more than the possibility of expanding the range of disciplinary tools. Climate conditions us as well as the plants. Today, a time when we must develop a new sustainability, a time when we need to start sharing our space with nature, this climatic architecture is what we have to master.
BIAS is an architecture and curating firm devoted to testing and expanding the boundaries of the architectural discipline. The integration of curating was the first consequence of such an objective. Indeed, this corresponded to the attempt to engage programs as an integral part of the architecture. Engaging the climate directly follows, especially given contemporary sustainability issues.
In the context of the Taoyuan Agriculture Expo 2018, BIAS has developed an experimental architecture called “Greenhouse as a Home.” Here, the human living space is intertwined with that of the plants and organized by climatic zones rather than traditional architectural areas. Greenhouse building materials and structures are arranged to separate climatic areas, while the distribution of water and energy flows is technologically managed. A study to integrate planting and programs has been developed, too, and the outcome is that people can experience an integrated blend of climate, landscape, and activities as they cross “Greenhouse as home.” They can also develop some sense of the respective interdependences, which is essential for triggering and creating a culture of sustainability.
The first zone is shadowy, humid, and fresh. It is inhabited by ferns hung in a steel grid structure. This assemblage creates ambiguous walls and a forest-like spatial experience that introduces “Greenhouse as home.” The second zone is still humid but windy and hosts the main activity area. Here, a large table enables collective dining. The third zone is climatically stabilized and is occupied by a vertical hydroponic farm and the kitchen. Here, fresh vegetables are picked daily and cooked on the spot for visitors. The fourth zone is hotter and drier, serving to desiccate vegetables as in traditional courtyard houses, but also enabling visitors to sunbathe. The fifth and last zone is finally hot, humid, and dark. It hosts a fungus farm and a sensorial theatre, where visitors can enjoy light and sound performances.
