McGill University

Winter 2014

Professor David Newton

 

After an analysis of a microscopic element - zinc oxide crystal - a retreat centre was to be designed mimicking the behaviour of the element. This element is a polymer used as an adhesive, having the ability to form strong bonds, and is reusable. This element also responds to gravity and randomness.

 

The retreat centre is constructed of reusable shipping containers stacked on top of each other forming a two-level dwelling unit. The act of stacking the containers on top of each other respond to physical gravity, and the varying cantilevers on the second level are designed in reaction to the inherent quality of zinc oxide: randomness. Multiple shipping containers are joined together to form a larger conference centre, and a separate daycare facility.

 

In addition to the reuse of shipping containers as a dwelling unit, the water used within each unit is then recycled as treated grey water to irrigate the vegetation on site (existing farms and plants).