art, architecture + ecology

A review of recent disasters - earthquake, wind, fire and flood – will demonstrate that many buildings that are designated to service the public after such disasters are often left in a condition that precludes them from performing this essential duty.

In a world threatened by global warming and relentless worldwide population growth, we must redefine the fundamental role of architecture as “shelter” and designers must create enduring, beautiful buildings in this context. Extended survivability is a architectural and engineering design paradigm that prioritizes this concept. It is the ability of a facility to remain in service even when a disaster event has occurred and access to utilities are eliminated for prolonged periods. As applied in California, it defines the ability of police, fire, hospital, etc. to safeguard its citizens after the maximum anticipated earthquake, forest fire, flood or other natural disaster has occurred. Existing codes address some aspects of survivability but not long term performance and functionality of the post-disaster facility.

The principles of extended survivability can be used to analyze threats, create shelter criteria, and utilize advanced design and engineering techniques to build safer and healthier communities. Extended survivability is also an intrinsic component of sustainability, seamlessly integrating LEED compliance, creating zero net-energy buildings and carbon neutrality.

Fire

Fire-resistant building systems, such as straw bale construction, are available to prevent structure loss.

Power

Photovoltaics provide backup when grid goes down, also used to create zero-net energy buildings.

Earthquake

Earthquake-resistant design features such as viscous dampers soften seismic impact, increase survivability.

Flood

Flood-resistant buildings can be designed by elevating them and hardening the first level.