second sky: sequential wind generator & energy harvester
A piece of seemingly infinite, cobalt sky is pulled down to hover at twenty meters above the ground as a new “Second Sky”. Gently levitating above the ground, this canopy converts solar energy into kinetic motion. The colossal, floating form flexes and oscillates in a smooth undulating motion, pushing pulses of air underneath to generate wind. Oriented in alignment with the prevailing wind directions, “Second Sky” also amplifies the natural wind when it flows through the site. This artificial and enhanced natural wind is pushed throughout the lush, green oases underneath the “Second Sky”, which flourish under the protection of the undulating canopy from intense solar radiation and desiccation. During stagnant, sweltering hot spells, “Second Sky” generates vital, relieving winds within the site and diffuses them throughout Masdar City.
Underneath the shade of Second Sky, a unique microclimate exists within the network of oases, paths, and plazas. Visitors are drawn in to meander through the site and take respite from the outdoor heat. The design seeks to reconnect the individual to the fleeting atmospheric phenomenon of wind cycles by creating a zone that enhances and dramatizes the climatic effects of wind (using Bernoulli’s principle). As the “Second Sky” breathes, it offers a phenomenological, technological, and ecological experience for visitors to the site.
Situated in the southeast corner of the site are a field of wind roses. Their form derives from lenticular clouds, a distinctive natural cloud formation that arises when moist air flows into eddies generated by turbulent wind. These wind roses are designed as vertical clusters of wind turbines that recapture wind energy from the combination of generated and natural wind to supplement the power needed to activate Second Sky while depositing excess energy back into the grid.
This climatic gateway into Masdar City sits at a significant crossroads between the R&D sector, residential complexes, and community facilities. The visual aspect and outdoor comfort this space provides can cater to a diverse and large crowd of users to allow this verdant node to become the apex for the public green spines that extend throughout the city.
in collaboration with:
joy hu, louis priaux