Out of this World

Thomas Roszak Architecture Designs New Welcome Gallery at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago

Completed in June 2011, the new Clark Family Welcome Gallery at Adler Planetarium, Chicago, IL may now be added to the growing list of unique and interesting projects of Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLC.  Through smart and collaborative design, Roszak led the team to meet project goals by creating a multifunctional space that provides a welcoming gathering area while also initiating an exciting pre-show experience necessary in optimizing the planetarium’s main event, the Sky Theater.  

In order to do so, Roszak’s team considered creative and innovating ideas, most notably their use of abstract materials and the creation of space that feels different and other-worldly.  Using aluminum tubing and polyester fabric constructed walls provided a cost effective alternative while creating a high-impact, and highly dramatic design.  Roszak’s team consulted with “fabricologists”, experts in the fabric industry, sorting through thousands of choices before discovering the perfect options.  The team didn’t settle until they found a fabric with precise, clean lines embodying the desire for a seamless look. The result: a smooth textured, pure white fabric with just the right amount of transparency used in both single and double layers.  Most importantly, the fabric had to have the ability to reflect the space’s LED lighting system, but also absorb light where mixed-media video is projected on the fabric walls.

While learning about their client and astronomy as a whole, traveling through “slices in time” became an apparent fundamental concept. Roszak’s design incorporates this theme by using the carefully selected fabric on walls and surfaces shaped to mimic travel through spacetime. Roszak’s used parametric modeling techniques to design the complex shapes and surfaces of the space. The fabric surrounds the area creating rich, spatial “events” in each section.  Roszak layered the fabric in alternating areas creating darker and lighter “slices” along the visitor’s pathway with each section representing a “time slice” in outer space.  Delineated slopes of cascading sheer planes add to the design representing the surface of the present that has recorded an astronomical event over time.  Even the design’s floorplan is laid out such that by shifting one’s position in the gallery, the perception of space changes as the voids separate, join, expand, and contract.  All of the design effects add to the visitor’s experience of walking from “slice” to “slice” feeling like they are traveling through time in space.

Also included in the space travel theme shown through Roszak’s plan are the many courses of the purposely “bent” shape of the gallery.  These paths entice the adventurous explorer to wander along “shortcuts” of the free-flowing space just as a real astronaut would.  The purpose of the twists and turns is two-fold since they also create opportunities for a collage of media learning displays.  Extensive collaboration with experts in video, animation, sound, and lighting inspired interactive exhibits with layered projected images, motion- detecting light and sound effects, and unusual display technologies around every corner.  Many years of experience and past projects have given Roszak a naturally positive attitude on collaboration, knowing how to bring together individuals who are experts in their fields, and working together to maximize a project’s full potential. Most importantly, Roszak listened to the client and made sure they were involved in every design stage.

Using architecture in a way to incorporate a client’s vision, even the most “out of this world” concepts, can be in the realm of the possible.  The architectural and media contributions to the Welcome Gallery immensely enhance guests’ overall experience at Adler Planetarium.  Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLC, is proud to have their architectural and design contributions aide in reaching Adler’s ultimate goal of creating an exciting and curiosity-evoking visit sure to create buzz and desire for guests to return for more learning and space exploration!


Please view more images here.

Roszak Designs New Gallery at the Alder Planetarium

THIS SUMMER, ADLER PLANETARIUM UNVEILS THE GRAINGER SKY THEATER, THE MOST TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED THEATER IN THE WORLD

Visitors will take off on a Deep Space Adventure for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience.

On Friday, July 8, the Adler Planetarium will reveal a new, immersive space experience like no other in the world!  Deep Space Adventure takes you aboard the observation deck of a futuristic starship where you will be surrounded by the larger-than-life phenomena of our dynamic Universe.

The centerpiece of Deep Space Adventure is the Grainger Sky Theater, which offers audiences the most immersive, technologically enhanced theater experience ever developed.  Visitors become space adventurers and set off on a journey to discover our Universe in a way never done before.   The theater was specifically designed with leading-edge technologies that enable visitors to explore space as if they were there.

The Grainger Sky Theater will project the largest single seamless digital image in the world with an ultra high definition screen resolution of more than 8k x 8k pixels.  This far surpasses the cinematic standard of 2k x 4k pixels, presenting a level of realism that can only be surpassed by actual space travel.

Vivid images of planets, stars, galaxies and other celestial objects are shown in the highest resolution and quality possible to evoke the feeling of being in deep space.  The on-screen imagery will expand beyond the traditional 180-degree dome and surround the visitor.  Special lighting effects in the floor complete the 360-degree experience. 

“Deep Space Adventure is a revolutionary way to explore the Universe,” said Paul H. Knappenberger Jr., PhD, president of the Adler Planetarium.  “Using the most advanced technology available in our completely transformed Grainger Sky Theater, and partnering with leading scientists, engineers and designers, we have created a thrilling adventure to inspire visitors to explore our Universe. Whether you are a novice or veteran space explorer, the Adler’s goal is to stimulate your curiosity and motivate further discovery.  We invite you to be the first explorers to join us on this maiden voyage to deep space.”

Clark Family Welcome Gallery, designed by Thomas Roszak Architecture

Visitors begin their Deep Space Adventure in the Clark Family Welcome Gallery. Multimedia interactive exhibits feature greetings from some of today’s prominent space explorers who have personal ties to Chicago. They will prepare museum visitors to explore space by encouraging them to ask intriguing questions and to build exploration skills.  The out-of-this-world gallery features futuristic architecture, colorful lights and video presentations, creating a dynamic and constantly changing environment.

The Grainger Sky Theater, designed by Wight + Co.

The adventure continues as visitors are drawn through a space portal to the new Grainger Sky Theater. Fashioned as the observation deck of a starship, the theater invites visitors to come aboard for the ultimate journey into deep space. Prepare for lift off as your adventure continues in the Grainger Sky Theater’s premier show The Searcher. Featuring scientific simulations from the most powerful supercomputers, and observations from the most advanced telescopes in existence, breathtaking visualizations capture the audience’s attention and bring you up close to the action.  Watch as a star is torn apart by a black hole; witness the collision of two massive galaxies; view the formation of the large-scale structure of the Universe; and encounter a dramatic supernova explosion.

“The theater technology and computational power used to store and access celestial images differentiates Deep Space Adventure from anything out there,” said Doug Roberts, PhD, Adler associate vice president for digital technology and project director for the new Grainger Sky Theater.  “Using 20 separate projectors - powered by 45 computers - to create one seamless image is unprecedented.  With the ability to create and present scientific data using images that are as good as the human eye can perceive, Adler visitors can explore deep space as if they were there.”

About the Adler   

The Adler Planetarium - America’s First Planetarium - was founded in 1930 by Chicago business leader Max Adler.  A recognized leader in public learning, the Adler inspires young people - particularly women and minorities - to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Scientists, historians and educators at the museum inspire the next generation of explorers.  Learn more at www.adlerplanetarium.org.

Stay tuned for more information and project photos on the next Thomas Roszak Architecture blog.

7RR, a green home by Thomas Roszak Architecture

Thomas Roszak Architecture and SteelGrass, an eco-design-build firm, have teamed up to design and build a new green and sustainable home on Chicago’s North Shore. The home’s design feels natural in the wooded lot and the plan’s axis rotates to take advantage of passive solar orientation. This house has many attributes of passive solar house design. Here are some additional eco-effective highlights:

At Home in Nature

With flexible, open living spaces flooded with filtered natural light and a carefully detailed arrangement of durable and energy efficient materials the green home provides a dynamic and comfortable environment made for longevity.

Green Highlights:

A) Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in

B) Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan

C) Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer

D) Open floor plan reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight

E) Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms.

F) Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers

G) Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste

H) Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated

I) Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%           

J) 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings

K) Super efficient windows have low E, argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames

L) Soy-based spray foam insulation boosts R-values by completing the building envelope seal

M) Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff

N) Countertops use recycled composite materials

O) Energy Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats

P) Furnaces are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss

Q) Energy star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water

R) Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are recommended to conserve water usage

S) No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality

T) Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use

U) Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems

V) A large food pantry to reduce trips to the grocery store

W) Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint

X) Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, no need to move as family members mature

For more information please call 312-423-7989 or email thomas@roszak.com

Click here to download a PDF with information about 7RR, a Green Home. 

Green, Modern and Affordable House

Our firm is proud to announce two new homes designed for the discerning and conscientious homebuyer. Award winning architect, Thomas Roszak and his team of builders at SteelGrass, LLC have joined forces to provide an environmentally effective home for the modern age while still remaining affordable. Buyers have the choice of prefabricated or built-on-site design depending on conditions and local codes. The new homes offer a fusion of contemporary lines mixed with necessary comforts homebuyers are looking for in today's smarter market. These include stylish and efficient floor plans, maintenance-free exterior materials, and automated interiors to maximize comfort and enjoyment while minimizing energy and waste. The interiors provide the warmth and comfort so often neglected in other green housing projects.

Observing how people live today and predicting future changes has inspired two options of environmentally respectable design. Eliminating traditional walls and offering double heighted ceilings creates spacious areas in conservative square feet. Utility without sacrifice is the new standard for today’s modern lifestyle and Thomas Roszak Architecture is offering not one, but two choices.

The 36x60 House

This 3,585 sq. ft. two story home holds five bedrooms and four and a half baths plus a two car garage and large 1,770 sq. ft. basement.

The entire first floor could be seen as one big room with flowing spaces that are simply separated by cabinetry and sliding doors to enhance the spaciousness of the home. Additionally, the smart and attractive cabinetry offers plenty of storage.

Starting with a large, welcoming entry makes an inviting first impression. The dramatic two-story living room with overlook from above is perfect for entertaining. Across the way, lies the dining room transformable for either a formal or casual setting. Both rooms include floor skylights with translucent glass allowing natural light to penetrate the basement while also creating a unique talking point as one of the green initiatives of the home. Ample space was purposefully dedicated to the kitchen to make it large and comfortable for cooking or entertaining. The family/media room sits across with shoji-like screens giving the option to close off the family room from the rest of the house.

The second floor includes a master bedroom suite complete with his and her walk-in closets and a bathroom built for comfort and convenience. This is done by a theme of separation: a steam shower and separate soaker tub, two vanities and a make-up area, plus a separate toilet room. All the elements combine to make the perfect bath fit for functionality.

Four additional bedrooms all on the same floor as the master finally allow for larger families to be together. The library is open to the hall and can double as an office. Having the laundry on this level is just another item on the list of smart design in this house.

The building’s structure including the exterior uses mostly recycled wood, steel, and metal materials. Metal wall cladding and roof come in a variety of different paint colors as well as copper and corten steel. Multi-season sun-shades are incorporated into the exterior cladding systems to block heat in the summer, but welcome solar gain from low winter sun.

The environmentally friendly initiatives continue in every aspect of the home providing attractive alternatives. Natural light pours in through the oversized windows thus reducing the need for artificial lighting. These windows use double insulated glass with a low-emissitivity coating and argon gas in between the panes. The glass is also set within a thermally-separated frame meaning the inside and outside frames do not touch or transmit heat or cold into the home.

Using larger vents allows fresh air to circulate throughout. Photovoltaic solar panels, wind turbine, and geo-thermal heating and cooling are available based on site conditions.

Atop the roof will grow locally available plants that require only natural rainfall to thrive using a rain catchment cistern.

The house will be built with state-of-the-art energy saving insulation (naturally made and eco friendly) throughout the walls and roof, which account for the most significant reason the house will be energy efficient. With the utilization of these systems mentioned herein, the house is capable of being Net-Zero, meaning the house produces all of the energy it requires and perhaps even more, which can be sold back to the grid. By utilizing naturally occurring energy from the earth and sky, a home can immensely decrease its carbon footprint.

The 28x48 House

This 2,224 sq. ft. two story home holds four bedrooms and four and a half baths plus a two-car garage and large 932 sq. ft. basement. It features the similar ideals and floor plans as the larger option.

The total project costs depend on site and local conditions plus land. Hard costs include all construction. Soft costs include the necessary permitting, architecture, engineering, insurance, surveys, and other similar expenses. Final costs can be determined once final drawings are approved and agreed upon by both parties.

Projects Costs = Hard Costs + Soft Costs + Land Costs

♫Having designed and built for five hundred residences, Thomas Roszak Architecture and SteelGrass are very pleased to present these two new exciting homes in the housing market during a time when homebuyers are searching for more options in the green, modern, and affordable sector. For more information or to start your home planning process today please contact Thomas Roszak at thomas@roszak.com.

Click here to download the architectural plans:

Green, Modern and Affordable House- 28' x 48'

Green, Modern and Affordable House- 36' x 60'

IIT students assist Lycée Français de Chicago on future school design and construction

Our firm, Thomas Roszak Architecture, worked with the Lycée Français de Chicago (LFC) and students from the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) as part of a comprehensive building design studio to study the future facility needs of this private pre-K thru 12 French school. With help from LFC’s facility board we studied various sites that were proposed by Jones Lang LaSalle, their real estate consultant, to determine actual site requirement in terms of size and access. We studied and improved on preliminary programs to pinpoint space allocation between grades and support spaces. This is a school with needs for over 700 students. The book The Third Teacher was a required reading as preparation for the assignment. We studied hard and soft costs and made recommendations that will surely be implemented into the final design and construction. The 14 students, in their 4th and 5th year of their Bachelor of Architecture program also prepared plans, renderings, budgets, proformas, zoning analysis, code analysis, and detailed construction details. A final architectural crit was done in front of the LFC board and other Chicago area professionals including architects, contractors, and school officials that gave informative real world insight into the design of this school and the future of education in general. A learning experience for all...

Click here to download a PDF with more images.

An Engineer Imagines in Glass

An interview discussing the structural glass stair design between Architect, Thomas Roszak principal at Thomas Roszak Architecture, LLC and Structural Engineer, Koz Sowlat, principal at Sowlat Structural Engineers, Chicago. See also previous blog on this project.

Describe the Members and Materials:

· Laminated glass: Each structural panel is Laminated Glass; made of ASTM C 1048 Fully Tempered (FT) and Heat Strengthened (HS) glass plies bonded with a clear interlayer in conformance with ASTM C1172.

· Composition: Vertical panels, landing panel, and treads, all have the same laminated glass composition, each measuring 1 ½ in. thick, and composed of the following three plies: 1/2" FT + 1/2" HS + 1/2" FT. A combination of glass types was selected to provide appropriate performance under service conditions as well as under extreme conditions.

Describe the Structural Analysis and Design:

· Analysis method: Three-dimensional finite element analyses were used to determine stresses and displacements, under design loads. For vertical panels, large-deformation, non-linear analysis was used, to account for member flexibility.

· Design method: At each element, von Mises stress (vector sum of principal stresses) was determined and maintained below the allowable stresses.

· Allowable Stress: For each load case and for each load combination, von Mises stress within the structure was limited to 5,000 pounds per square inch for FT glass, except that stress in FT with surface conditioning was limited to 2,500 pounds per square inch. Fully tempered glass is produced with a residual surface compression of 9,700 pounds per square inch, reducing the likelihood of surface tension, and inhibiting opportunities for crack growth.

· Composite Action: Based on standards recommended by The Institution of Structural Engineers, London, UK, entitled: “Structural Use of Glass in Buildings,” published in 1999, each panel was analyzed as if a solid material.

· Redundancy: General structural integrity check was provided, in conformance with the City of Chicago Building Code, Section 16(13-52-040,) by considering each panel with one ply removed and subject to selfweight.

Describe the Service Design Loads:

· Public stairs: City of Chicago Building Code loads for public stairs were used, allowing 100 ponds per square foot simultaneously on all treads and the landing panel. Additional analysis allowed two 300-lb persons standing on any tread or the landing panel.

· Handrail loads: Concentrated load of 200 lbs in any direction at any point, or simultaneous vertical and horizontal thrust of 50 pounds per linear foot.

· Footstep sideway push: Allowed one 200-lb concentrated load on any tread.

· Footstep forward push: Allowed one 200-lb concentrated load on any tread.

· Wind pressure: Design wind pressure was determined to be 14.4 pounds per square foot, based on consideration of the staircase within a tall building, where sliding doors allow external wind pressure to influence the internal wind pressure.

Describe the Perimeter Vertical Panels:

· Role: The perimeter vertical panels provide overall stability, as well as gravity support, for the staircase.

· Level 39 supports: Each vertical panel was detailed to rest within a base channel, secured to Level 39 concrete floor slab. Analyses considered floor rotation that would reduce contact area. Base channel was designed to carry loads caused by horizontal loads, in any direction, and by vertical loads.

· Level 40 supports: Each vertical panel is supported against horizontal loads, in any direction, at Level 40. The Level 40 connection was detailed with a vertical slip, such that differential deflections of Level 40 and Level 39 induce no additional stresses within the glass panels.

Describe the Interior Vertical Panel:

· Role: Interior vertical panels provide gravity support, but do not contribute to the overall staircase stability. The interior vertical panels are laterally supported by the perimeter vertical panels, using the connecting treads as struts.

Describe the Treads and the Landing Panel:

· Role: The treads and the landing panel provide gravity support, and are also pin-connected to the vertical panels to allow participation within the overall staircase stability system.

· Steel clips: Each clip is detailed to allow rotation of the horizontal panel in relation to the supporting vertical panel. The steel clips are detailed to allow a soft, gentle transfer of loads from glass to steel, carefully avoiding hard spots.

FIG. 1 - Perimeter Vertical Panel Stress Profile, Subject to Combined Loads

FIG. 2 – Landing Panel Stress Profile, Subject to the Weights of Two 300-lb Persons