This competition entry for a settlement in Russia by F A S(t) concentrates on the vernacular of traditional Russian architecture. The five building volumes follow Russian building tradition by flaunting accentuated profiles that stand out and are noticeable in the skyline. In addition, they all have an internal organization and relationship to one another that provides for social events to flourish at ground level, also an aspect of Russian design strategies.
For more on this project come back after the break.
The five residential buildings occupy 75×125 meters, which are held cohesively by a band that runs along the entire block, tying the complex together. The ground level is split into two platforms, one lower and the other higher. The lower platform is reserved for parking of cars, and bicycles, and includes technical facilities, and various other infrastructures. The upper level is allotted to internal yards between the buildings.
The residential volumes are organized along the long edge of the block, creating two types of recreational social spaces for the occupants: a large intra-yard that runs through the middle of the block and small intimate spaces between the residential building volumes. The larger of the internal yards is set aside for a public yard with playgrounds. This space is available for all tenants of the block. The smaller courtyards that are nestled between the residential blocks are reserved only for the residents of the adjacent buildings, thereby ensuring that the intimateness of the spaces is preserved. These interior courts allow planting for fruit bushes and trees. They also form verandas and elevated enfilades that are set aside for entertainment and activities.
The brick paneling for the facades of the residential building volumes are based on the modulation of one-meter wide pier to pier openings, as well as monolith reinforced concrete frame structure with an elevator core that gives maximum flexibility in designing individual apartments with varying layouts.
