Digital Architecture Lab

The design proposal for the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Villa consists of an urban field whose main parameters are density programs and environmental inputs. From this parametric interaction, four shell typologies emerge as the non-linear product of different structure gradients, from thin concrete shells to grid shell structures.

Efficient system performance results from structure adaptation according to required program density. In low density environments, such as multi-complex areas, structures act as thin concrete shells, while in those of high density, where large-span structures are required such as stadiums, the shells consist of grid structures. A transition between the two extremes is achieved through combining systems of thin concrete and grid structures. This hybrid typology is presented in areas of moderate density where medium-span structures are required such as in residential areas as well as in the Training center. Although each shell typology
can function independently, it is part of the same overall urban grid which is interconnected through the use of smooth spatial transitions.