ALYSSA TOHYAMA
is an interdisciplinary designer with a background in architecture, brand identity, and digital media.
GRAPHIC DESIGN + BRAND IDENTITY
ARCHITECTURE
The Urban InstituteARCHITECTURE, 3D RENDERING
The Urban Institute is an adaptive building that utilizes a bimetal facade system to allow it to transform depending on climactic conditions and intended use.
Located at the intersection of Clay St and 16th St in Oakland, CA, the Urban Institute acts as a multi-use public building with exhibition spaces, lecture halls, office spaces, and research centers. It features a bimetal facade system which is comprised of individual pieces of bimetal that flatten to cover more surface area when exposed to heat in the form of direct sunlight. This allows for the building to be in a constant in a state of flux, adapting to the climatic conditions of the site and adjusting its level of permeability and openness throughout the day.
Featured as Archinect’s 1st place winner for the “Get Lectured” Poster Series
CLIENT: UCLA ARCHITECTURE + URBAN DESIGN
YEAR: 2024-2025
HOW IT WORKS
The bimetal facade system is a dynamic, responsive building envelope designed to optimize shading and daylighting through the inherent properties of bimetallic materials.
Composed of two metals with different coefficients of thermal expansion, the facade elements curl or flatten in response to temperature changes, eliminating the need for mechanical or electrical controls. As direct sunlight heats the facade, the bimetal panels bend to provide increased shading and reduce solar heat gain, enhancing interior comfort and energy efficiency. As the sun moves and temperatures drop, the panels gradually return to a more open configuration, allowing natural light to penetrate deeper into the building. By night, the system remains in its resting position, maintaining visual permeability and integrating seamlessly with the urban environment. This passive and self-regulating design makes the bimetal facade an innovative solution for adaptive architecture and sustainable climate control.
RENDERINGS
The bimetal facade system incorporates a series of wind scoops that allow for air to flow freely into the buildings exterior spaces. These wind scoops also allow for the the floor plates of the building to extend past the buildings footprint, creating balcony spaces with views to the surrounding cityscape.
The building's design prioritizes openness, with outdoor spaces and circulation areas seamlessly connected to the street level for easy access. Conversely, offices and studio spaces are intentionally arranged to provide a more private and secluded environment.
The ground floor is a gallery space fit with sliding glass walls that allow the space to be entirely open to the public, blurring the line between the building and the sidewalk.
DRAWINGS
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