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Nqobile Victor Mkhungo

Nqobile Victor Mkhungo

Durban, ZA

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Fentress Global Challenge - Airport of the future (student design competition - 2012)

Challenge:

Aircraft engines release noise pollution, as well as gasses and particulate pollutants, which contribute to both global warming and global dimming.   The aviation sector experienced an 87% rise in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 to 2006. This growth directly adds to the probable loss of natural habitats, which is closely linked to the amount of jet fuel burnt per passenger.

Site location & contextual analysis:

The selected location is situated in La Mercy, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa, roughly 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Durban's city center. The Zulu people, who were formerly a dominant force in South Africa under the leadership of King Shaka Zulu, reside in this region.

Design Statement:

In the year 2060,   Following the occurrence of COP17 about six decades ago in Durban, global populations have gained awareness regarding climate change.   At this location, individuals ceased gathering sustenance and instead focused on extracting energy.   The consumption of fossils has become obsolete.   The use of public transportation has gained popularity, with a shift towards utilizing renewable resources instead of relying solely on fossil fuels.   By implementing these principles, the anticipated global conflict over water or energy resources was averted.

Design Concept:

The overarching theme is inspired from the intricate network formed within the hive or honeycomb, involving wasps or bees and the nectar they gather. This network evokes a distinct sense of industriousness.   Consequently, the hive serves as the endpoint, with wasps or bees representing modes of transportation and nectar serving as the passengers. 
The limitless straight lines serve as a metaphor for terrestrial movement. 
The curved pattern symbolizes the aerodynamic forces generated by the flying aircraft, serving as analogies for flight. 
The incorporation of vegetation on the roof of the airport terminal establishes a harmonious relationship between the architectural structure and the natural environment. 
The use of hexagons in the roof is a symbolic representation of a honeycomb, adding a poetic touch to the whole concept. 
The utilization of tree-shaped steel columns, securely attached to a concrete base column, to support the honeycomb ceiling aligns with Kevin Lynch's notion of identity.   A tree functions as a gathering place for social interactions with society and also serves as a structural support for the hive.

Aim:

The design should anticipate and accommodate potential future developments that offer solutions to our existing difficulties, rather than being limited to what is currently observable. 
The objective is to compel the general population to utilize public transportation.   The main concept is to establish a network of functional areas, including an airport terminal, shopping facilities, and a mass transit system. However, this network should also extend to nearby cities such as Durban central and Pietermaritzburg city. This expansion would accommodate various modes of transportation, such as electric-powered mobile trains and an airport bus shuttle, both running on electricity.   At this location, there will be small stations where travelers can conveniently make their bookings and other arrangements before being transferred to the airport terminal using public mobile trains or buses.

Environmental performance:

Efficient utilization of water resources 

Utilizing local resources for natural ventilation 

Proper orientation: Due to the site's location in a coastal humid zone, meticulous planning is necessary.   It is recommended to use suspended flooring. 

Photovoltaic regulation 

An indigenous garden and habitats have been designed to conserve water and support local wildlife. 

The garden serves as a repository of native medicinal plants. 

On-site cultivation of biofuels using algae tubes 

Wind turbines generate energy that powers mobile trains. 

The mobile, equipped with magnetic wheels, generates kinetic energy as it travels down the railway tracks.   The electricity is subsequently utilized to refuel electric buses.

Conclusion:

The future airport should not only provide transportation services but also function as an energy generator.

 
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Status: Competition Entry