The kinetic wall: A human and environmentally responsive facade. An educational approach in architecture

Abstract

This article presents a framework for the design and functional prototype of a kinetic perforated panel wall that meets human thermal comfort and solar trajectory needs. The description of the framework is put forth as a potentially replicable exercise for architecture schools in Latin America. The study narrows the gap between topics such as responsive architecture, and parametric and algorithmic modeling in the design of building envelopes. The result is a low-cost functional prototype, as well as the framework for a building design exercise that was subsequently discussed in a focus group of undergraduate and graduate students. The method contributes pedagogically to the discussion on the complexity of building envelope design and the introduction of automation, parametric modeling and scheduling in contemporary design exercises.