SIR Social Sciences Investigation Abstract
AN APPROACH TO NON-INVASIVE BUILDING DESIGN
Presenter:
Danny L. Duong, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506
Advisor:
Dr. Kirk Hallowell, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506
Abstract:
A boarding school for underprivileged children is planned to be built on a six acre plot in Zimbabwe by a private school developer. This project creates designs of the school with structural elements respecting Zimbabwean customs and maintaining a relative closeness to the surrounding building aesthetics. The project examines various facets of Zimbabwean life and reflects them in the design while keeping the overall concept novel. A final product that includes features from two different cultures was expected. Research of traditional Zimbabwean dwellings prompted the use of a hut as the building's atrium. It also indicated a Zimbabwean connection to nature which resulted in landscaping receiving careful attention. Close communication with the school developer regarding design progress and ideas was essential. The construction plans were reviewed by the school's developer as well as professional architects. A successful design was determined by approval of the school developer.