ECOBOX

ANGEL DE DIEGO RICA
MADRID, SPAIN. 2003
The Fundacion Metropoli
 building was conceived as
 an experimental building
which integrates two
 fundamental criteria:
-The creation of a place of,
 and for the development

of, innovation and creativity
-A commitment to bioclimatic processes
BIOCLIMATIC COMPONENTS

Sun Scoops-In addition to capturing solar energy for the building, the sun scoops also act as skylights
permitting the passage of heat throughout the winter months and reflecting light in the summer.
Thermal Energy Storage-The building enclosures are composed of materials which maximize its
energy efficiency and saving. The thick outer walls act as thermal energy stores that regulate the
temperature within the building
Ventilation and Geothermal Energy-Underground geothermal energy is transmitted and stored in the
thermal energy storage (a two-meter deep gravel pit) located underneath the building. Air from the
exterior is allowed to heat up or cool, depending on the season, by passing through this energy storage.
The heated/cooled air is then introduced into the interior spaces and building enclosure.
The Atrium and Motorised Windows-The building is maintained in positive pressure outward due air
that is introduced from the exterior through the ventilation system.

Louvers -The automatic louvers that are fitted around the structure allow personalized control of luminosity
and direct solar radiation into the building. Photovoltaic Panels integrated with the Facade
Solar Panels-Production of heat and cold.
Vapour Absorption Chiller-In the summer, the vapour absorption chiller uses the hot water produced
by the solar panels for the production of cold water for the radiant floors
Radiant Floors and Ceilings-The radiant heating and cooling system circulates hot and cold water
through underfloor tubing. During the winter, the hot water comes from the solar panels, while in the
summer; the system uses the same water that has been cooled by the vapour absorption chiller.
Intelligent Regulation Systems -In general, the electrical systems monitor and regulate building temperature
depending on the needs of the different interior spaces, the external thermal conditions and
the energy accumulated from the solar panel and photovoltaic cells.
Obtained Results
Energy Savings of 70 %