Page 191 - ELEMENTS EUROPA (EN)

ELEMENTS EUROPA SOLAR CULMINATION 187

Thermal and hygrometric insulation of delegation and secretariat
offices was achieved by resorting to a mineral “breathing” material (silicate
foam), applied to the inner face of the brick wall. The lagging thickness
was calculated so as to alternatively allow for humidity absorption and
evaporation (cf. Philippe Samyn’s note: Europa, vol. 1, p. 204 and the
technical note below). Dressing the elements was enhanced with mirrors
placed in window frames, with light shelves.

Note on lighting and thermal and hygrometric insulation.
In the historical section of the Residence Palace, as the facades had
been left untouched, I sought to increase incoming natural light as
much as I could. Since the facade is a classified one, I searched for
profiles of that time and I had strictly identical window frames built with
added double-glazing. The apparatus already in use in other buildings
was recreated: in order to use luminosity inside a locale and reduce
glaring, it consists in placing a horizontal mirror, facing the ceiling, at
about 2 metres above the ground, so that the incidental oblique light
reflects in it. To enhance that effect, vertical mirrors were added within
window frames. This light shelf increases the facade’s virtual thickness.
Insulation on the inner side of the facade took the shape of a 20-cm
layer of silicate foam continuing horizontally above and below the
wooden floors so as to cut the thermal bridge: that process created
a step, an ample skirting board matching the width of light traps. A
diagram highlights the thermal gradients created in those facade and
wooden floor complexes. Silicate foam was chosen so as to use no
organic material. Bricks on the inner side of the wall were bared and
insulating blocks were bricked up covering them in resistant glass
fabric, so no obstacle blocks the vapour flow. Even the type of glue
was thought out to avoid any obstruction to vapour. By so doing, only
condensation remains in the wall, evaporating steadily in summer.
In offices located in the historical section, the most coherent way
to air-condition is to resort to active ceilings, i.e. cold in winter and
hot in summer. White fabric external blinds reduce heat intensity in
summer and the insulating device acts in winter. Warmth and coldness
consumption is limited to what is strictly necessary, whilst maintaining a
pleasant temperature inside the building. Mechanical ventilation is also
in use, providing a slight extra coldness. This is only some extra hygienic
air; the function of oxygen is separated from that of the heating and
cooling device. Interview with Philippe Samyn