A11 – Housing development

The competition’s program requested 78 residential units + 22 to be built in a second phase. The site of 20979m2 is divided in two lots, GFA can be arranged freely in the two parts.
At urban scale it is designed following a scheme that unifies the two lots, generating continuity in term of volumes, density and circulation. Located on the seam between a low-rise neighbourhood and an extra-urban area, the new four linear buildings identify a safe area that is no more an introverted space but an area of relation within the project site and with the context. 

At the architectural scale it is conceived as a modular building based on cells that generate different typologies and spaces allowing flexibility, efficiency and versatility both in design phase and in construction. The overall composition integrates with the neighbourhood and creates an interactive network of green areas, public spaces, and courtyards. The buildings work as “filters”, permeable elements able to organize circulation and integration at multiple levels.

The system based on modules (3.1 m x 13.65 m) engages with the general strategy. Single modules can be added or subtracted from the buildings’ massing allowing changes at each stage. Porosity enables continuity and connection at the ground floor; at the upper levels it gives the possibility to have apartments with patios, roof gardens and generous terraces. The patios create holes in the main volume reducing the visual massiveness. Accesses to the buildings work like horizontal links and integrate public routes with private ones enhancing opportunities of social interaction.

The aggregation of single modules allows a great flexibility in the unit mix and typology; different combinations generate apartments of varying size addressing to the market’s demands and people’s needing. The structural grid, based on the module, minimizes construction waste and costs without limiting the possibility of variations and customization. It influences the façade scheme as well; the single form has been divided into 3 sub-modules, thus giving the possibility to have more opening options. Each typology has a range of options to be selected from a façade matrix and combined with a colour scheme generating a delicate yet various elevation results.

Sustainability features are incorporated in the project by means of orientation, passive energy solutions, the use of renewable energetic source and materials.

Sustainability issues are challenged at many scales. The master plan is conceived in order to occupy the minimum area: the built area is about 20% of the all site and green areas and open spaces occupy the other 80%. The project proposes a living model fully integrated with natural environment and social spaces.

Category
Residential / New Construction

Year
2012

Status
Invited Competition

Location
Fiorenzuola D’Arda, Italy

Area
Site 20979 m² / n°78 Units

Client
Private

Architect
MAR Office | Studio VERT

Team Competition/SD
Juarez Corso, Paola Mongiu , Verbena Ricotti, Gianmario Rovida, Giovanni Trabacchi

Collaborator
Architectural visualization: Cristian Chierici

Credits
Maquette: by MAR Office
Photos: by MAR Office