The MODULE ARK, by Sponge Architects, is a design for an autarkic (=self-sufficient) ark to live and/or work on. The design is modern, modular and sustainable. Surrounding the ark with glass facades ensures a maximal openness. Despite of these big glass surfaces, the MODULE ARK stays sustainable because of the low energy consumption, realized by means of a simple mechanical principle consisting of individual façade parts that can be closed and opened separately. These parts are utilized in extreme weather conditions against overheating and hypothermia. More after the break.
Closing the facades helps to save energy when it is very cold outside and wind is blowing heavily. The closed and isolated shutters than have the effect of a sweater. Opening the facades helps to save energy when the summer sun is high in the sky and the winter sun stands low. In summer, The open shutters act as a sunscreen and in winter let the sun penetrate deep into the space. This quality makes the MODULE ARK sustainable because it can be adapted to the weather conditions and the docking place regarding the north-south orientation, the view and the protection against glimpsing.
