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ISTUDIO Architects
By : ISTUDIO Architects
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 16th edition
Discipline : Architecture
Categories : Other categories in architecture / Infrastructure : Gold Certification
Salt storage facilities are usually never featured as a project type in high end design competitions. However, the use of salt and plowing prevents 7 of every 8 crashes that would occur on untreated winter event roadways. ISTUDIO Architects saw an opportunity to take a utilitarian municipal project, with limited fiscal resources and create an eye catching, budget friendly design using a repetitive pattern in the metal panel façade. Today, this facility for the DC Department of Public Works houses 7,500 tons of salt for the District.
Salt can be lost to precipitation therefore storage facilities are necessary to maintain proper amounts to fight winter storms. Additionally, enclosing the salt can prevent possible detrimental effects on the environment. Facilities need to ensure the project meets safety, accessibility, maintenance, economy and drainage. The project site was at one of the city’s entry corridors and can be one of the first impressions of tourists entering the Capitol of the United States. The design team worked with the Federal Commission of Fine Arts to ensure it did not detract from visual experiences. Furthermore, site challenges included poor urban fill. The design includes a structured slab on top of piles, this helped to avoid large utility mains and support for the buildings frame. The site also includes staging areas for salt trucks and native landscaping that matches the adjacent properties along the main corridor.
ISTUDIO Architects artfully fulfilled the clients need for salt storage with a design that is visually captivating, elevates the traditional infrastructure prototype, and maintained fiscal requirements.
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