Adaptive Building

Audencia Provincial, Campus de la Justicia, Madrid
Architect: Foster + Partners

Following the master plan for the new Campus of Justice in Madrid, Foster + Partners has designed two distinct circular buildings, the larger of which is the Audiencia Provincial (Appeals Court).

This building has been designed to minimize unwanted solar gain, while allowing natural daylight inside. As a key part of this environmental strategy, Hoberman was contracted to develop several customized shading systems. Hoberman developed a unique series of hexagonal shading cells, which, when extended cover the triangulated roof grid. When retracted their profiles 'disappear' into the structural profiles of the roof. During the day, the primary function of the system will be sun shading. An algorithm combining historic solar gain data with real-time sensing of light levels will control the shading units.

The Wyss is collaborating to develop new building designs using biomimetic materials that provide additional functionalities and enhance energy efficiency.