Andy Song
This blog post will be about the LEED-certified Grove at Grand Bay condos, designed by one of my favourite architects -- Bjarke Ingels. On its LEED scorecard, the Grove at Grand Bay has a perfect score in the "Innovation" category, as it provides a unique "twist" to the Miami skyline.
Twisting Setup
The two towers twist not just to seem architecturally special, but to provide better views for condo residents. When designing large residential buildings, views and access to natural light is always a major consideration. As shown to the right, the towers are placed on a limited piece of land, so twisting is the only way for the towers to stand next to each other with optimal views on all four sides.
LEED Scorecard - Sustainable Sites
The Grove at Grand Bay scores 25/28 on the "Sustainable Sites" section of its LEED scorecard, with points deducted only for limited parking space and lack of light pollution reduction. An additional point was awarded for the site's maximization of open space as a "Regional Priority Credit", bonus points given for features of projects which align with geographically specific priorities. This got the building's score to 60 -- just enough for Gold-level certification.
Extended Balconies
Another important feature of the towers is how their balconies extend forward a little (this can be seen most clearly in the photo on the left). I think this extension is here for two reasons. First, it emphasizes the twisting of the towers more, as it would be harder to see the twisting without the layers of extended balconies. Second, it blocks the sun's rays from entering into condo rooms. When the sun shines into rooms, especially somewhere as hot as Miami, a lot of air conditioning is needed to cool the rooms down. The extended balcony provides shade for the room, conserving a lot of energy used for AC, but also letting natural light in, saving energy for lighting too.
Accessibility Features
While it isn't a feature exclusive to the Grove at Grand Bay, the accessibility of architecture is something I have to mention eventually. Public facilities must take into consideration people's special needs. The image to the right shows the walkway leading from the building's entrance splitting into two paths: a short staircase and a long winding ramp. This is to accommodate for people with disabilities (i.e. using a wheelchair) or with young children on strollers. Features like this are tiny but necessary for the building to be complete.
Unfortunately, I wasn't allowed to explore the actual site, since it is an active residential space; I particularly wanted to wander and take pictures of the looping walkway between the two towers. However, I was able to walk around the sides of the property. Despite the buildings looking a little less impressive than in photos, they were still a true work of art. The lush greenery surrounding the entrance was also instantly attractive and comforting, but a little confusing for navigation. All in all, I think the Grove at Grand Bay is a well-rounded paradigm of sustainability in the coastal metropolis of Miami. I've admired every one of Bjarke Ingels's works, and the Grove at Grand Bay is no exception.
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