Concept

The roof is a simple inverted planar surface which isdetailed to create a waterfall feature pouring rainwater back into the sea.This rises on the corner to allow the super intendants office to look out overthe harbour entrance. The concept for the elevations is that the ground plane,which is made of natural stone, folds up onto the building and the reinforcedconcrete roof continues down the facade. Rectangular openings are formed wherethese two materials meet, giving an undulating materiality reflecting thelandscape beyond the project..

‍

Material

In this harsh environment concrete was chosen both as structure and an external finish due to its durability and longevity. This reduces the need for the frequent replacements or repairs, which have affected the surrounding metal clad buildings of the harbour. The building’s thermal mass properties help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. This leads to lower energy consumption and reduced carbon emissions. The material choice also helped with fire strategy as the loadbearing concrete walls enclose an ESB Substation which is integrated into the building.

‍

Rectangular openings are formed where these two materials meet giving an undulating materiality reflecting the landscape beyond the project.

Structure

The reinforced concrete “fragile shell” structure spans and cantilevers off the external leaf of the walls which are insulated internally.  The roof canopy creates asheltered entrance for the two distinct parts of the building’s program. One side contains a canteen, laundry and substation while the other a shower block and offices

‍

‍

Construction

During the construction period the name of the building Sos Seolteorachta was cast into the entrance façade using CNC cut plywood lettering in the shuttering. The walls also had recesses built into them to allow for aflush finish with the natural stone.

‍

‍

‍