How Buildings Can Improve Life — Inside and Out | Doris Sung | TED

The Role of Building Facades in Urban Environments

Reflections and Air Conditioning

• The speaker humorously reflects on the experience of seeing one's reflection in a glass facade, emphasizing that these facades are designed for those inside the building rather than passersby.

• A vivid description of feeling cool air from an air-conditioned building highlights the exclusivity of private spaces in urban settings, where public access is often limited.

Urban Heat and Building Design

• The speaker introduces their background as an architect and discusses how buildings can benefit not just occupants but also improve conditions for people outside.

• Historical context is provided, explaining how early human shelters evolved from caves to constructed facades that tell stories about culture, wealth, and status.

Modern Challenges with Glass Facades

• The transition to modern materials like glass has led to energy inefficiencies due to poor insulation properties, necessitating large heating and cooling systems.

• Innovations have been made to enhance facade efficiency while maintaining transparency; however, there’s a call to rethink how these surfaces can serve public interests.

Utilizing Facade Space for Public Good

• The speaker proposes using facade space for ecological benefits, such as creating habitats for wildlife and supporting local ecosystems.

• Emphasizes the importance of water management systems integrated into building designs that collect and purify water locally.

Addressing Noise Pollution and Sustainability

• Discusses potential technologies that could reduce noise pollution in urban areas by modifying surface materials on buildings.

• Introduces two specific technologies aimed at improving public health: smog-eating panels designed to filter air pollutants in urban canyons.

Innovative Air Quality Solutions

• Describes how smog-eating panels work by utilizing prevailing winds to filter out particulate matter trapped in urban environments.

• Highlights the design considerations involved in maximizing airflow through these panels while minimizing material use.

Thermo Bimetal and Biophilic Design in Architecture

Introduction to Thermo Bimetal Materials

• The concept originates from thermo bimetal materials that curl when heated, leading to the creation of low-tech robots for fun in the office.

• These robots evoke emotional connections, resembling pets, with names like "Roly Poly," highlighting the importance of human interaction with objects.

Application in Building Facades

• The idea extends to using thermo bimetal on building facades, allowing structures to react dynamically to outdoor temperature changes throughout the day and year.

• This dynamic response aims to foster a connection between people and buildings, enhancing emotional attachment similar to that felt towards pets.

Enhancing Urban Happiness and Mental Health

• By animating buildings through this technology, it is proposed that urban happiness levels can increase, contributing positively to mental health.

• The design allows for visibility through the facade while still providing an interactive experience as elements respond visually to environmental changes.

Implementation Strategies for Innovative Technologies

• Three strategies are suggested for integrating such technologies into buildings:

• Change Policy: Mandate construction costs allocation towards public-centric facade technologies.

• Think Entrepreneurially: Explore options for owners to rent or lease facades for various uses including agriculture or utility services.

• Advocate for Change: Encourage renters to demand more engaging building designs that contribute positively to public spaces.

Conclusion on Urban Design Potential