Living Data Center

Project idea

This project hybridizes the data center with the residence creating a new typology of living data center that utilizes the waste heat from the servers to both heat the building and generate electricity. This hybrid also provides data as an economic benefit to residents and looks at the importance of bringing attention to data centers as their demand increases in this new age.

Project description

This project proposes a new typology, the living data center. The proposal hybridizes a data center with housing, public, and commercial programs, weaponizing its negative byproduct into a positive attribute. Waste heat from servers is captured to heat the building and generate electricity, transforming infrastructure into a shared resource. Data becomes an economic benefit to residents while highlighting the growing impact of data centers on urban life. The building integrates adaptable residential units, public space, a library, and commercial programs, creating a continuous exchange of information, energy, and atmosphere curated through seasonality and architectural experience.

Technical information

The building is made up of a prefabricated concrete structure. Data servers are integrated into the façade, creating a new hybridized information and temperature-regulating device. The tower cores host a series of pipes that carry heated and cooled water throughout the building to support the functions of this unique machine. Underground, a larger data center fills a pit that collects rain water to use for cooling the servers while also benefiting from the cooler subterranean temperatures. The lower portion of the towers gather wind through large vents to send into the central core further cooling the building during warmer months.

Documentation

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