Mar d'ombres

Mar d’Ombres is part of the Urban Challenge project, and involves the creation of a provisional shaded area within the public space of Bithabitat. The project is supported by BATEC, a cooperative hub for the energy transition.

The proposed shaded area consists of a large canopy following a greenhouse-like structure covered with a natural reed roof and reinforced with gabions at its base to guarantee stability. The structure consists of three circular porticoes 6.4 metres in width, repeated every 3 metres, with a length of 21 metres. The shading covers an area of approximately 450 square metres. The porticoes reach a height of 6.4 metres, with each end standing 5 metres from the other.

The project stands out for its synthesis of the principles of sustainability, circularity and durability in both conception and execution. The use of recycled, locally-sourced materials, the possibility of reuse and adaptation of structures and consideration for the health and wellbeing of users are cornerstones that contribute to a significant reduction in carbon emissions and the promotion of a more responsible and community-based consumption model. In addition, the flexibility and modularity of the design allow the structure to adapt to different needs and circumstances, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in the long term.

The base of each pillar is formed by a gabion fixed to the greenhouse structure. The gabion is made of meshes of intertwined rods. Each gabion is filled with recycled aggregate. In order to fix the gabions to the greenhouse structure, each one will feature a 180x100x4mm square tube welded to a 5mm thick base plate. This tube will have four slots to ensure correct placement on the rectangular pillar of the structure. A class II cylindrical pine wood base, fixed to the mesh, will be installed on top of the gabion.

The main structure of the shaded area takes the form of a poly-tunnel greenhouse system. This standardised design provides the necessary basis to create shade through its covering with a natural reed roof.

The pillars are composed of 140x80x3mm tubes embedded within the gabions. The arches are formed by an oval tube of 90x50mm. The structure also features channels between each ‘greenhouse’ for greater rigidity, as well as a Saint Andrew’s cross at each end. Each part is made of galvanised steel with a zinc, aluminium and magnesium cladding that provides better chemical composition and corrosion resistance in both normal and adverse conditions.

The roofing is made from rolls of natural split reed. The reeds are tied together with galvanised wire and are fixed to the main structure by the same purlins which join the gantries.