Sustainability Façade inspired by STEM

The STEM office building, comprising of nine floors, is situated in the Sahebqarnieh area of Northern Tehran. With a keen understanding of the solar energy potential of the site, the building has been thoughtfully designed to harness solar power through the implementation of a solar collector on its southern façade. The primary objective of this design approach is to reduce the building's direct exposure to sunlight, given the arid and hot climate of the area. The design features 3D-formed, watertight pipes that carry an interface liquid, which absorbs solar radiation. Through a process of heat exchange in the decentralized tanks, this preheated water is then supplied to each floor. This design methodology is based on the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, where the inner fluid inside the pipes moves passively upward as it gains sufficient heat, continuing this cycle throughout the daytime.

On the contrary, the 3D pipes serve as a remarkable structure, akin to that of a super-tree, that facilitates the growth of climbing plants on the building's exterior. The pipes are anchored onto cantilevered metal supports, designed with precise CNC-cut metals to ensure accurate installation. Each level features these supports, which are integrated into the main steel structure. Additionally, the platforms act as maintenance platforms for the glazing and also serve as ideal locations for plants to climb upwards on the façade. Through this innovative design approach, the building's exterior not only supports vegetation growth but also offers ease of maintenance for its upkeep.

The pipes utilised in the construction of the façade are manufactured using standard gas metal pipes, each measuring 6 meters in length. Computational optimisation techniques were employed to ensure minimal cuts on the lines, factoring in the varied curvatures and length restrictions. To ensure water tightness, the welding, covering, and installation techniques for the façade conform to the standards utilised in the boat-making industry.

Considering the local regulations restricting floor-to-floor height within the building, the structural beams are intentionally exposed to maximize the indoor height. These exposed beams are partially covered with acoustic fiber cement boards designed to host spotlights, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits to the building's interior.