Open Source

East Austin, TX

A source for information, education, donation distribution and community outreach, Open Source is founded on principles of safety, cleanliness, and resilience.  The large open roof recalls the covered porches commonly found on homes throughout Texas and allows for a place of gathering in a fresh air setting.  The program elements are distributed as individual components underneath this roof to allow for free and open circulation throughout the project. By dividing the program into stand-alone elements employees, volunteers and the public can occupy the space while safely social distancing or gathering in small groups.

The building form allows for multiple points of transfer for resources including the key functions of a donation drop-off, safe transfer pick-up and drive-through pick-up. The large open roof and the multiple open corridors allow for breezes to flow through the building during the warmer months in Austin.  The four openings in the roof with retractable covers allow for natural daylight to illuminate the interior and therefore reducing energy needs in lighting. Inside, individual room controls allow for the reduction of energy needs in cooling and heating.