Extreme temperatures kill more people than any other climate event. Over the last half-century increased privatized use of air-conditioning has been shown to warm the surrounding microclimate up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. This further burdens those who cannot afford cooling, suggesting that a focus on renewable public cooling systems would benefit everyone. From these observations a new urban typology emerges - thermal refuge centers. Existing cooling and other refuge centers, however, are typically maladaptive. They contribute to the crisis by using non-renewable energy systems and providing bleak, undesirable environments. This further burdens communities in need by increasing energy use during peak demand, which increases community energy costs and blackout frequency. 

Epimorphic aims to elevate the individual within a collective experience in a place that is light, desirable, and accessible. Natural and indirect light along with expansive views characterize the experience of individuals within the Circ-Cuts – named in response to the climate emergencies that interrupt daily rythms.

During an increasing number of days - approximately 80 per year by 2080 [NPCC-3] - the center will be an emergency shelter for underserved communities in Brooklyn and Queens. Solar-charged electric buses will route through high heat risk areas to bring people to Epimorphic. During the other 280 days/year the center will operate as a rentable lodging, work, and event space. This will create a regenerative effect where some people’s disposable income feeds back into the system to support others in need, beginning to reverse a long history of capitalist exploitation.

Epimorphic recognizes the burden of grid connectivity by utilizing grid-free systems. Thermal chimneys draw cool air through the spaces during the summer in conjunction with radiative cooling. Any mechanical systems deemed necessary are powered through solar panels located on the natural gas distribution complex next door. In the winter, radiative heating primarily warms the spaces, and the thermal chimneys serve as ventilation. 

The structure of the hangars will be reinforced and reconfigured with material already on site. The existing pavers will be used to construct each thermal chimney and its foundations. Preliminary evaluations reveal a sufficient number of pavers to complete this task.  The concrete composing the surrounding taxiway will be repurposed for use in the green decks and greenhouse. The bricks of the surrounding dilapidated structure are in good condition. They will be repurposed into the climbing wall, which will give a human scale to the structure.

This program is a kit of ideas for other centers and programs to utilize in consideration of helping to regenerate a healthy climate and social system. Epimorphic is a reaction against the marginalization of heat-stressed communities. The program switches the hierarchy of the typical social structure found in capitalism by giving preference to those who need it most.