Water
So today’s class lecture was water and it’s various types; Grey , Black/Yellow, and Storm water. The seminar that was presented was a rousing game of who wants to be a millionaire on flood architecture; a “multifauceted” topic, as Rob so cleverly said.
Ha Ha Ha, You’re hilarious Rob
Black/Yellow water is water that has be touched/used by humans. Grey water is water from showers, sinks, and washing machines. Storm water is water that has touched the ground. It is possible for these different water types to be recycled and reused, especially grey and storm water.
Grey water can be filtered by many different systems. There are above ground and below ground systems. The above ground is cheaper, but not guaranteed for smell. An excellent example of these types of water filter is the CK Choi building.
Another way to filter Grey/Storm water is to use a wetland. These wetlands are called constructed wetlands and are fiscally and environmentally friendly. They are simple to install and can be disguised as green spaces/flow gardens. The vegetation that is planted in theses wetlands should be natural to the environment but can include Yellow Iris, Cattails, Bulrushes, and Long grasses. The plants and their roots filter out the toxins in the water, 60-80% of solids, leaving it cleaner and in good shape to use for irrigation. A good example of a constructed wetland is the Sidwell Friends Building in Washington (2007). The water circulates from the building that filters through wonderful stepped constructed wetlands.
Other ways to filter grey/storm water are to use modified green roofs, gardens, and sidewalks
Images: “Stalwart Middel School” Halkin Photography co. , CK Choi Building; http://newcity.ca/Pages/choi_building.html
Ecology and Design: how it applies to you 