The majority of new construction shares the common fault of merely housing existing practices within an updated shell, never pausing to examine the practices themselves. In response, the Seattle Transfer Station takes the form of a highly efficient machine, seeking too reduce the waste-handling process to its lowest common denominator.
The processing of waste becomes almost completely automatic. Commercial and public haulers are separated into two lanes, with each vehicle weighed and issued a ticket via machine upon entry. Waste is deposited onto an industrial conveyor belt, shuttled to a compactor at the building’s center. Identified by ticket, the exiting vehicle’s tare weight is taken and associated fees assessed.
The efficiency of the building is echoed in its tectonics. The primary structure consists of 10-foot deep steel trusses supported by steel columns. The structure is anchored to two concrete towers at building’s east and west ends, with administrative functions held within. A suspended walkway is strung between, allowing constant monitoring of the processes below by supervisors and guests. A continuous polycarbonate skin is fastened to the light steel frame, granting light and visibility to the processes within.
