Israeli-based architect Zvika Tamari of TeaM Architects recently proposed a conceptual plan for the burgeoning city of Modiin in Israel that takes the form of an incredible grass-roofed eco-dome. Situated at the center of the city and surrounded by a series of green spaces, the Globe Ecological Hub functions as a museum and multi-use urban center that promotes sustainable living. The grass-crowned hub takes advantage of natural ventilation, daylighting, active solar systems, and a host of other green building strategies.
Composed of spherical shapes, curved surfaces and purposely positioned voids, the Globe Ecological Hub creates a new set of connections within the city of Modiin, helping to circulate inhabitants into and around the city center. The project is divided into two main areas: a partially submerged museum and a series of interconnected open public spaces.
The hub uses natural ventilation to keep the interiors of the museum cool, and smart sensors on the exterior facade are used to direct natural light into the exhibition spaces within the structure. The top of the hub is covered in an insulating layer of grass framed by photovoltaic cells that convert light directly into electricity and act to further reduce energy costs. Lastly, drinking and washing water is recycled for irrigation of the surrounding landscape and site.
If completed, the Global Ecological Hub will promote sustainable living in the city of Modiin while also serving the needs of the city’s inhabitants through public programming and museum-related events.
+ TeaM Architects
Via World Architecture News
watta a hub!