Barcelona, 07.2024

Impluvium Redux is a modular system designed as a flexible solution that can be deployed on any urban rooftop or public space. Comprised of hollow ceramic columns that function as both structural elements and water collectors, an elevated modular floor, and a kinetic membrane, this system captures, cleans, and stores rainwater — addressing the challenges of both flooding and drought.

In addition to its advanced water management, the energy-efficient ceramic materials help with cooling, making Impluvium Redux a model for sustainable infrastructure. By optimizing construction, assembly, and disassembly, this prototype elegantly integrates both structural and thermodynamic solutions, all while fostering community and social interaction in urban environments.

Credits

Principal Investigator: Juan José Castellón
Research Team: Olga Sobkiv, Tianle Chen, Tammy Feng
Collaborators: Rice University School of Engineering, BEC industries, CODA Computational Design Affairs, Ceràmiques Cumella, Huguet, xmade.
Sponsored by: Carbon Hub at Rice University, Rice Architecture, Suimco Materiales, S.L.

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