porosity + hexagon = proXagon is a collaborative project of M. Turker Emeklier, Aiman Ahmad and Usman Mati.
The future proofing school design of the proXagon, relies on its unique translation of simple components into a comprehensive whole. Hexagonal components that compose the form of the building have the functionality of being both, the facade and also when united, the self supporting structure. Having used only 6 components with different kind of openings allows us to rebuild/reproduce the design of the shell in different environmental conditions. By the reconfiguration of these components with different openings and also by loosing a few parts to punch some entry openings, we can customize our buildings towards the needed filtration of elements such as sun, noise or the other climatic elements.
When realizing the final form, site studies of the shadow casting, wind and noise were the main inspiration along with the potential of being in between two main attraction centers such as the federation square and the sports buildings. On this secluded volume on top of the railways, the urge to build a bridge-like structure as a school was materialized: the bridge metaphorically symbolizing the transition of the person undertaking education.
The proXagon is an inviting structure which serves as pathway on the ground floor and along the pathway functions such as different retail, information offices, cafe and restaurants, exhibition spaces can be found. These functionalities will serve as attractors for the public to engage more with the school and additional activities.
The educational scheme of the proXagon relies on the tendency of the educational theories that have a student centered projection towards the future. The concept of the classroom is transformed to a workshop studio or a studio for a focus group. On the other hand the study space is spread all through the building in its large hallways. While the internal spaces are generated with wall components, the angle of them determine according to whether an expanding or a focused space is needed. The interlocking system of the prefabricated wall panels enable the assembly by simple tools and minimum labor. On the other hand, porosities on these wall components provide a variety of visual filtrations between the spaces. While the length of these wall components is a constant 5 meters, the varied heights create the spaces similar to basalt formations through the internal skin.
By the generation of such a climatically optimized space with prefabricated components, and the customization of the interior space allows such a building to live and beyond its expected functionality. When there is the need for different Internal spaces, different compositions can easily be generated by the hexagonal grid. Moreover the structure can be dissembled and relocated with minimum loss of material.
