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4.8 The central hub
The geometry and realisation of the central hub was researched at length and in
depth. This is the point where all the construction elements are joined: the arches,
the framework of ventilation openings, and the columns.
(fig. 1, 4: study images - 2002)(fig. 2, 3: realisation - 2007)
The three or four tubular columns are rigidly joined together. The arches and
structure of the ventilation openings are bolted to the main structure. The reservoir
which collects rain water from the curved roofs, the overhead light channels, and
the ventilation openings, is placed in the space between the twin arches and the
ventilation openings.
A design solution was sought in which the geometry of the form of the rain water
reservoir is determined by the assemblage of all the other construction elements.
This visually emphasises the lightness of the structure. The solution lies in the
installation of a simple reservoir, adding bent sheet parts to complete the geometry
of the hub. These parts can easily be removed to make maintenance of the rain
water collection system possible.
fg. 2 fg. 1
fg. 4 fg. 3