Danielle Severino March Dissertation
Privileged climatic conditions have drawn the international astronomical community to the Atacama Desert where the ALMA observatory facilities are sited some 2900m above sea level. The high technological achievement of the observatory is in stark contrast to the poor environmental conditions and high energy use of the accommodation provided for the scientists. This project proposes new housing facilities for staff as well as visitors’ facilities for tourists. The design proposals draw from the vernacular architecture of the region relying on passive techniques and renewable energy sources.
