Today more than ever, architects are facing high expectations for the design, function and performance of a project. Careful building design takes the regional influences of climate into account, material origin, perhaps cultural building traditions. These are ways to lower the ecological footprint. But what do architects do to further enhance the building performance? That is an exciting element to explore. Finding out that today digital technologies are implemented in buildings in every region of the world is an interesting fact to discover!
During this unprecedented era of social distancing and working from home, ABB with Katrin Förster have launched a video series called “Frozen Music” to give architects a platform to both see and share successful building design around the globe. Below is Episode #6, the VIETTEL Headquarters in Hanoi, Vietnam, designed by Gensler.
“Frozen Music” is a video series exploring and presenting some of the world's most superb projects and the architects behind them to a global community. There are episodes dedicated to a new residential complex risen from the ashes of old and abandoned buildings, great office spaces that help employees identify with their work environment and connect with each other, and a museum in which the play of light and shadow emphasizes the artwork.
“In any building, the context defines the future-proof and optimal solution” explains Katrin Forster “With ABB technologies, architects can also fulfill complex demands on sustainable and environmentally friendly design, and at the same time take care of the wellbeing and comfort of residents - no matter what size or purpose the building is."
Keep reading for an excerpt from a conversation with Katrin:
Katrin, why did ABB come up with the idea of a video series for architects?
"In a world that right now does not allow traveling, we came up with the idea to give architects a platform to have their projects introduced to a global community and how ABB solutions for smart homes and smart buildings helped them to realize their project. We introduce the designers, share their approach and their spirit and can discuss why these buildings are so successful.
At the end of each video we present installed ABB solutions in action and give the abstract expression 'smart building technologies' a real existence, something to grasp and understand. We think that architects are in charge today of consulting and educating their clients about 'smart technologies.' With our video series we are giving a helping hand to easily update on the latest solutions."
How did you select the projects?
"I am looking for projects from completely different countries and backgrounds. Careful building design takes the regional influences of climate into account, as well as material origin and perhaps cultural building traditions. This can be one step to lower the ecological footprint. But what did the architect do to further enhance the building performance? That is an exciting element."
Any previews of the next videos?
"Come with us to Chile, to China, to Finland, to Australia, to Turkey… We will take you around the world. Follow us here."