Weekly Summary:
In this weeks learning we took an in-depth approach to the understanding and construction of different kinds of walls that make up a structure. These walls range from a wide variety of materials and construction methodologies that provide variations of supporting elements to the structures overall strength, aesthetic appeal, and functionality of the space.
When diving deeper into the examination of the different types of wall constructions, we find that there are three basic kinds of walls.
Stud walls are composed of wood planks spading from the ground floor to the ceiling above. These wood planks carry numerous types of detentions ranging from the classic 2x4, (which is actually 1.5 inches by 3.5 inches) to the longer 2x6, ( which is actually 1.5 inches by 5.5 inches), and the occasional 2x8, (which is actually 1.5 inches by 7.25 inches). When considering the measurements of studs that comprise the structure of a stud wall it is important to note that the written measurements of the dimensions are different than the actual, or "nominal" size. After the studs in the wall are spaced on the sill plate running the base of the wall, the walls is then sheathed with plywood and installation is applied to exterior walls and covered with drywall for the interior.
Concreate masonry walls are often seen in exterior formations that function as load bearing walls that face the exterior of the structure. These walls, much like the stud walls, have a variety of different units that are available to be used to compose its structure. These unites range from kiln fired bricks with varying edges and dimensional lengths, cement block that functions differently with the different dimensions. These walls are typically applied through the use of mortar to connect the joints of the each unit. 
Structural frame walls use different styles of columns, pillars, balusters, and beams ranging from all types of materials from wood to steal, in order to frame out the building's structure. This type of wall acts as a kind of skeletal structure that provides the main structural stability that transfers loads established by the buildings weight, down to the foundation of the building.
The composition of wall's in our structures today are designed for many different purposes other than just defining spaces and supporting the ceiling from collapsing in. Walls are designed to contain and hide different elements that are necessary to make a space livable such as electrical components and wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems and ventilation. To provide functionality to the walls to preform in the many different areas it is required to succeed in, other elements such as gypsum board, foam installation (sometimes made from recycled materials), and layers of finish often in the form of paint to give the walls a pleasing appeal after its completion.
Steelcase Case Study
In my case study I read through the Steelcase collaboration of the SPA India project and how it is coming about in its formation.
According to Shweta Mohanty one of the main proprietary sources for this involvement, she states;
"The big shift happened with the pandemic and the fact that workplaces are changing – the way we need our employees to engage is changing. But the pandemic absolutely accelerated the pace of change. One big shift is thinking about the office in the traditional model – where everybody is coming into the office and that it’s the only place where you “get work done.” Increasingly, workplaces are being looked upon as a place to collaborate and network and build connections. Now, it’s all about flexibility. In fact, our latest pitch is that if you need to really get focused work done, you actually don’t need to come to the office – you might as well be at your home and work from there. But if you really want to connect with teams, the workplace is number one."
The ideas behind this project is the effort to make the workplace an appealing, relaxing and beneficial place to conduct day to day work responsibilities. When considering productive work environments in most occupations, collaboration and community is a key factor to the businesses success in their respective industries.
The community and collaboration desired by most corporations is achieved through elements of design, space planning, and general configuration of the building to encourage integration in the workday rather than isolation. Creating open spaces that are directed by a funneling affect of walls or even the suggestive aspects of carpeting are just some small ways design has a huge affect of work functionality.
Thank you for this interesting Blog entry about walls an their importance in creating a sturdy and appealing structure. I liked the images you provided as they really give substance to your explanation.
ReplyDeleteI also enjoyed reading about the SPA India project and how they looked at designing office spaces post pandemic. Total Points: 50/50