two intersecting saddle roofs shield DMAA's house f in slovenia

The 'Double Roof House,' designed by the Japanese firm SUEP. (Hirokazu Suemitsu + Yoko Suemitsu), integrates a distinctive catenary curve feature that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Located in a low-rise residential area of Yamaguchi, Japan, the house is specifically designed to mitigate solar gain due to the lack of surrounding shadows on the site. The structure is a single-story building characterized by its two roofs and a composition of five individual box-shaped units, each designated for a specific function within the home. A central element of the design is a dramatic floating 'sudare,' or reed screen, positioned above the main structure. This screen plays a crucial role in passive solar design by effectively reducing solar heat gain into the building by 50%. A deliberate small gap is maintained between the two roof structures, allowing for the diffusion of natural light into the interior spaces while still providing shade. The overall design of the house is harmoniously integrated with its natural surroundings, following the site's topography to sit comfortably within the landscape. The project details indicate a substantial land size of 1,326.1 square meters, with a building area and total floor area both measuring 235.2 square meters. The house is constructed using a wooden bungalow structure, emphasizing a connection with natural materials and possibly contributing to a lighter environmental footprint. The internal layout, though consisting of separate box-shaped units, is visually unified by the overarching double roof system, which also serves to connect the various spaces. Photographs by Kai Nakamura showcase the exterior and interior aspects of the residence. An external view highlights the visual connection provided by the two roofs across the distinct units. Interior shots capture the kitchen and living areas, demonstrating how natural light filters into these spaces despite the sun-shading mechanisms. The entrance, positioned beneath the floating double roof, creates a welcoming and sheltered approach. Another interior view offers a broader perspective of the 'Double Roof House,' emphasizing the thoughtful integration of design elements. A night view of the residence reveals its illuminated presence in the landscape. Supporting illustrations include a rendering of the house, a site plan detailing its placement, and a plan and section drawing that provide technical insights into the building's layout and structural components. These illustrations collectively articulate the architectural vision and the functional considerations behind the 'Double Roof House' project. #SUEP #DoubleRoofHouse #JapaneseArchitecture #SustainableDesign #PassiveSolar #ReedScreen #WoodenBungalow #ResidentialArchitecture

For decades, architects and government officials have recognized the importance of energy-efficient buildings, especially since the 1970s energy crisis. Buildings, including their construction, materials, and associated infrastructure, contribute up to 40 percent of global carbon emissions, making energy efficiency a critical concern. This understanding is foundational in North American architecture schools and has been emphasized by European institutions for even longer. The "Passive House Design" approach, pioneered by German architects, considers a building's entire interconnected system, focusing on its integration with the site, climate, and social support. This philosophy extends beyond residential structures to all building types. A more recent evolution, the "Net Zero Design" approach, also led by German designers, takes this further by requiring buildings to be highly efficient, use minimal energy, and replace all the energy they consume, potentially even contributing excess energy back to the local power grid. Europe, with its advanced energy design and construction history, has developed numerous innovative building cladding systems that contribute to energy efficiency. These systems often incorporate specialty fabrics in intelligent ways, such as vertical shade systems, retractable awnings, and entire building wraps. Industry experts, including Steve Fredrickson from Serge Ferrari North America, note that Europe is significantly ahead of North America in this area due to a lack of air conditioning standardization in European homes and retail, creating a greater need for heat barrier solutions. Additionally, European building codes are more adaptable to new energy-reducing products and developments. In contrast, existing North American building codes and the time required for their amendment make widespread adoption of fabric shade systems more challenging. Architect Samuel Armijos observes that while European markets showcase many examples of vertical fabric systems, such projects are scarce in the U.S. This lack of visible examples hinders broader acceptance and design incorporation. Architect Nicholas Goldsmith, however, notes a growing recognition among North American designers that exterior shading, particularly in specific regional climates, offers advantages over other cladding systems, such as being lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective. Mike Squizzato of Stobag North America Corp. highlights that Europeans prioritize shade for cooling due to higher electricity costs, whereas North Americans typically rely on air conditioning. He believes that as electricity costs rise and climate concerns grow, North American markets will rapidly adopt shading solutions, with awnings and vertical shading providing natural air-conditioned environments and potentially saving over 50 percent on electricity bills. Paul Snustead, director of facades at Structurflex, acknowledges Europe's lead but points to Structurflex's efforts to advance fabric facade architecture in the U.S. Tensile facades, also known as textile, fabric, or flexible facades, offer an innovative, long-lasting, and cost-effective alternative to traditional metal mesh screens, often costing about 50 percent less. These systems act as a 'second skin' for buildings, providing screening and shading, which can contribute to reduced energy consumption and LEED certification. Despite the clear benefits, the adoption of fabric-based shading systems in North America faces challenges. Traditional cladding materials remain strong competitors. Armijos notes a decline in leads for shade jobs, with parking garages being the primary market, but even there, fabric competes with pre-fabricated concrete and metal mesh systems. He suggests a major global event might be needed to spur a push toward textile facades. Andrew Trowbridge of Ronstan International observes a shift away from stainless steel cables in fabric structures towards greening systems and perforated aluminum panels for shade and facade coverage. Conversely, Fredrickson sees growth in both static and retractable vertical shading options across North America. Snustead describes an exponential expansion in the fabric facade architecture market, particularly for tensile fabric meshes, membranes, and foils, initially driven by parking garage screening requirements. Structurflex has seen an 800 percent increase in facade projects annually, with fabric facades becoming a significant part of their operations. Squizzato predicts that as temperatures rise, North Americans will increasingly seek cost-effective cooling solutions beyond air conditioning, leading to buildings with more colorful awnings and widespread vertical shading, eventually mirroring European practices within 15 years. For companies looking to enter or expand in this market, experts emphasize the need for knowledge, education, and accessibility of information. The ideal company size varies by region and market, but success hinges on having the right products and expertise. Fredrickson warns against using cheap, unproven products, which can harm the market's reputation. Snustead highlights the versatility of tensile facades, which can span large distances with less structural support and use materials that are often 100% recyclable with long lifespans. Squizzato points out that many existing businesses, from awning companies to landscape architects, can leverage sun shade protection to expand their services, provided they have appropriate insurance, training, and competent staff. The overall outlook for vertical fabric shading remains positive, with continued growth anticipated, especially as architects and contractors become more familiar with the medium's innovation and economic advantages. #BuildingFacades #VerticalShading #EnergyEfficiency #FabricArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalTextiles #NetZeroDesign #ClimateControl #ConstructionInnovation

Arquitectura-G has completed the Patio House, a single-story residence in Aiguablava, Spain, which integrates domestic life within a continuous flow of natural light, air, and shade. The design employs a courtyard typology to bridge the gap between the natural landscape and the architectural structure, creating a space that feels both contained and expansive. The house is strategically set back from the original plot boundary, establishing a square perimeter that preserves the surrounding natural terrain. Within this boundary, a roofed porch forms a perfect square, encapsulating a 15 x 15 meter central courtyard. This courtyard is distinguished by a colonnade and features a shallow reflecting pool, along with three trees whose canopies naturally filter sunlight, contributing to a unique microclimate within the space. A thin roof plane is designed to appear as if it floats above the columns and perimeter wall, unifying all the internal and external areas under a single, cohesive horizon. The architectural team for the project includes lead architects Jonathan Arnabat, Jordi Ayala-Bril, Aitor Fuentes, and Igor Urdampilleta, with a project team consisting of Diogo Porto, Siddartha Rodrigo, and Jesús Jiménez. Structural engineering was handled by Ofici:Arquitectura, MEP engineering by TDI Enginyers, and surveying by Xavier de Bolòs. All photography was done by Maxime Delvaux. The Barcelona-based collective Arquitectura-G reimagines the traditional Mediterranean patio house, transforming it into a contemporary dwelling characterized by its disciplined design, material clarity, and intelligent environmental integration. The interior layout revolves around a continuous corridor that encircles the central courtyard. This transitional area, functioning as a variable-width porch, dynamically shifts in its spatial character, ranging from a narrow passageway to more expansive communal zones such as the living room and kitchen. Each room within the residence features direct access to the courtyard through large glazed panels and adjustable louver screens. These elements are crucial for controlling the ingress of natural light and ensuring optimal ventilation throughout the house. The use of exposed concrete surfaces defines the interior, contributing to the minimalist aesthetic, while storage areas are discreetly fronted with wooden doors, maintaining a cohesive design language. The design emphasizes a deep connection with the outdoors, allowing residents to experience the changing light and seasonal variations of the natural environment from within the comfort of their home. The project, known as Patio House, is located in Aiguablava, Girona, Spain. The deliberate placement of the house creates an untouched ring of natural terrain around its perimeter, enhancing its integration with the local environment. The colonnaded courtyard, with its reflecting pool and trees, acts as the heart of the residence, providing a serene and climate-controlled outdoor space. The floating roof design not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also functionally unites the various elements of the house, creating a sense of openness while providing shelter. The selection of materials like exposed concrete and wood for interior finishes underscores a commitment to both durability and aesthetic simplicity. The integration of adjustable louver screens offers a flexible solution for environmental control, allowing inhabitants to customize their living environment. This thoughtful approach to design ensures that the Patio House offers a sophisticated interpretation of a traditional typology, focusing on sensory experience and seamless indoor-outdoor living. #ArquitecturaG #PatioHouse #AiguablavaSpain #CourtyardArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #MediterraneanArchitecture #FloatingRoof #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

The 'Lumintu' house, designed by Realrich Architecture Workshop, is located in a landfill area in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta, where temperatures can reach 35-40°C. The house is west-facing, near the beach, and surrounded by minimal vegetation, necessitating a robust strategy to mitigate direct solar gain. The design integrates bioclimatic architectural principles with a vacation-like aesthetic. To combat the intense sun exposure, the Indonesian studio engineered an undulating steel canopy, which functions as a primary shading element. This canopy, crafted using a blend of industrial processes and traditional artisanal techniques, features a branching pattern that extends from the facade, mimicking the shade provided by a tree. This not only shields the house's interior but also protects the surrounding plant life from excessive sunlight, fostering a seamless transition between the built environment and its tropical landscape. The philosophy behind this design is encapsulated in the term 'Lumintu,' signifying sustainability and fluidity. Inside the Lumintu House, the ground floor features a spacious, column-free main area designed to merge with the outdoors. This open layout promotes natural airflow and offers panoramic views of the tropical scenery. A key innovation in the house's thermal management is the inclusion of an air gap between the roof and the floor below. This strategic void allows hot air to escape, creating effective cross-ventilation throughout the structure. High ceilings and strategically placed skylights are employed to maximize natural light penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Furthermore, all ventilated openings are equipped with mesh screens to prevent insects from entering while maintaining airflow. The house also incorporates a rooftop garden, which serves as an insulating layer, contributing to a reduction of approximately 3°C in indoor temperatures. During the construction phase, Realrich Architecture Workshop prioritized minimizing environmental impact. This was achieved by utilizing locally sourced materials and engaging local artisans, which helped to reduce the project’s carbon footprint. The collaboration with skilled craftsmen was integral, particularly in bending each steel component for the facade's intricate design. This approach not only supports local economies but also ensures the long-term durability and low maintenance of the residence. The architects' commitment to combining innovative environmental strategies with cultural sensitivity results in a dwelling that is both resilient to its challenging climate and harmoniously integrated with its surroundings. The overall design emphasizes a balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance, creating a comfortable and sustainable living environment in a high-temperature region. #LumintuHouse #RealrichArchitectureWorkshop #BioclimaticArchitecture #SteelCanopy #NorthJakarta #SustainableDesign #TropicalArchitecture #ShadingSystem #NaturalVentilation

Kingspan Insulated Panels offers a range of facade systems designed for various building applications, emphasizing quick and easy installation. These systems feature either a non-combustible PIR (polyisocyanurate) or stone wool core, providing enhanced fire safety and thermal performance. The versatility of these panels allows for both horizontal and vertical application, accommodating diverse architectural designs and project requirements. The product range includes several distinct facade options. The Evolution Panelised Facade system, for instance, offers a modern aesthetic with efficient construction. Detailed technical data sheets for this system are available, outlining specifications and performance characteristics to assist designers and builders in material selection. Installation guides are also provided, differentiating between horizontally and vertically laid panels, to ensure proper and efficient construction processes. Kingspan's facade solutions are engineered to integrate seamlessly into building envelopes, contributing to energy efficiency and structural integrity. The use of advanced insulation materials like PIR and stone wool helps in maintaining stable indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling loads, and thus lowering operational costs over the building's lifespan. These cores are particularly valued for their fire resistance properties, crucial for meeting stringent building codes and ensuring occupant safety. The company supports design professionals with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, allowing for accurate integration of their facade systems into digital building models. These BIM objects facilitate early-stage design visualization, conflict detection, and quantity take-offs, streamlining the design and construction workflow. This digital support underscores Kingspan's commitment to modern construction practices and efficient project delivery. Kingspan Insulated Panels, based in St Marys, NSW, provides comprehensive support for its products, including technical documentation and direct contact options for inquiries. The facade systems are categorized under "External Wall Materials" and also address "Security & Fire" aspects, indicating a multi-functional approach to building envelope solutions. The provided illustrations showcase various architectural applications, from library facades to car parks, demonstrating the adaptability and aesthetic potential of their insulated panel systems. #KingspanInsulatedPanels #FacadeSystems #InsulatedPanels #BuildingMaterials #FireSafety #ThermalPerformance #BIMTools #SustainableBuilding #ArchitecturalDesign

Durra Panel offers versatile ceiling and roofing systems characterized by their safe, rapid, and economical installation. These systems provide a wide array of aesthetic surface finishes, catering to diverse design preferences and architectural styles. Beyond visual appeal, Durra Panel systems deliver significant functional benefits, including superior impact resistance, which enhances durability and longevity. The panels also incorporate effective thermal and acoustic insulation properties, contributing to improved energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort by reducing heat transfer and mitigating noise levels. The product range includes various configurations to suit different structural and design requirements. Single-layer systems feature the Durra Duplex Beam and Durra I-Beam, both designed for straightforward installation and robust performance. The Durra Duplex Beam is a fundamental component, offering reliable structural support and ease of integration into various ceiling frameworks. Similarly, the Durra I-Beam provides a strong yet lightweight solution, ideal for applications where minimizing structural load is beneficial. Additionally, the Durra Suspended Ceiling System offers a flexible option for creating aesthetically pleasing and functional ceilings, allowing for easy access to utilities above while maintaining a clean, finished look. For more demanding applications or enhanced performance, Durra Panel provides double-layer systems. These include the Durra I-Beam & Durra Duplex Beam Connected configuration, which combines the strengths of both beam types to create a more resilient and versatile ceiling structure. This connected system is particularly suitable for spaces requiring increased load-bearing capacity or superior environmental control. Another double-layer option is the Durra I-Beam or Durra Duplex Beam Disconnected system. This arrangement offers flexibility in design and performance, allowing for custom solutions where specific thermal or acoustic properties are desired without direct structural coupling between layers. Durra Panel's commitment to sustainability is evident in its manufacturing process, as the panels are made entirely from straw sourced from local Australian farmers. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces environmental impact but also positions Durra Panel as a viable alternative to traditional building materials like plasterboard, offering comparable or superior performance in terms of strength, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The company, Ortech Industries, established in 1985, produces these panels along with Durra Steel Sections and Durra Panelised Building Systems at its facility in Bendigo, Victoria, ensuring high-quality, locally-sourced construction materials. The widespread application of Durra Panel systems makes them suitable for a variety of projects, from residential and commercial buildings to industrial facilities. Their comprehensive benefits, encompassing aesthetics, structural integrity, thermal and acoustic performance, ease of installation, and environmental responsibility, underscore their value as a versatile and sustainable choice for modern construction and design needs. #CeilingSystems #RoofSystems #DurraPanel #BuildingMaterials #SustainableBuilding #AcousticInsulation #ThermalInsulation #ConstructionTechnology #ArchitecturalDesign

Suppose Design Office has completed a shingle-clad house in Japan's Kanagawa prefecture, distinguished by two curved concrete walls. The residence is situated on a corner lot within an established residential area, surrounded by numerous existing buildings. The primary design challenge was to ensure privacy for the occupants while maintaining a sense of openness, a common concern in densely populated suburban environments. This was achieved through the strategic placement of reinforced concrete retaining walls, which effectively block views from the outside without creating a closed-off atmosphere. The design incorporates these concrete retaining walls to serve multiple functions beyond privacy. They act as structural elements, supporting the upper levels of the house, and simultaneously define various zones within the site. A notable feature is the ground-floor courtyard created by these walls. This courtyard is designed to immerse residents in nature, featuring a variety of plants and trees that contribute to the aesthetic appeal and provide a tranquil outdoor space. Suppose Design Office conceptualized the house with a dual-layered perimeter: the prominent curved concrete walls and an additional margin. The building itself is positioned diagonally on the corner site, a decision that further contributes to its unique form and spatial organization. The margin surrounding the house is intentionally landscaped with diverse plant life, adding depth to the environment and mediating the visual relationship with the adjacent properties. This deliberate landscaping helps to soften the impact of the concrete and integrate the structure more harmoniously with its surroundings. The architectural approach involved creating varying degrees of openness across the house's three floors. The ground level benefits from the privacy offered by the retaining walls while also engaging with the natural elements of the courtyard. The floor directly above is designed as a more secluded, closed-off area, suggesting spaces requiring greater intimacy or quiet. The uppermost level features a multi-purpose space spanning 9 square meters, where natural light is introduced through an elongated skylight. This skylight ensures adequate illumination while still maintaining privacy, consistent with the overall design philosophy. Functionally, the retaining walls are integral to the structural integrity of the house, acting as wall pillars that support the middle and top floors. This integration of structural form with spatial composition is a key characteristic of the design. The project demonstrates an innovative solution for urban residential architecture, successfully balancing the need for privacy with the desire for openness in crowded settings. The house, completed in 2020, stands on a site area of 315.94 sqm, with a building area of 114.04 sqm and a total floor area of 234.18 sqm, with Toshiyuki Yano as the photographer, and key contributors including Makoto Tanijiri, Ai Yoshida, Yuji Okanishi, and Akihiro Hamatani from Suppose Design Office, and structural design by Ohno Japan. #JapaneseArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ConcreteConstruction #CurvedWalls #Privacy #CourtyardHouse #UrbanInfill #ArchitecturalInnovation #Kanagawa

The 3 x 30 Introverted House, designed by Vietnamese studio DMA Architects, is a three-story residence situated on a long and narrow plot in a dense area of Vung Tau City, Vietnam. The architectural design draws inspiration from traditional sloping roofs, featuring a slanted concrete roof that extends to the second floor. This roof incorporates strategically placed cutouts, which serve to enhance ventilation and allow natural light to penetrate the interior spaces. The exterior of the residence integrates greenery, which acts as a buffer against heat and provides additional privacy for the occupants. To optimize vertical connectivity and light distribution, the floor area on the upper levels of the house is deliberately reduced. This design choice enables light to travel more effectively throughout the vertical expanse of the home. The skylights, crucial for both illumination and ventilation, are divided into smaller sections. This subdivision minimizes heat absorption while maximizing the distribution of natural light and promoting air circulation. Throughout the dwelling, perforated steel panels are utilized for elements such as stairs and corridors, further facilitating the movement of light and air. The client's brief for the project emphasized a balance between simplicity and privacy, aiming to create a tranquil sanctuary within the urban setting, while also being well-adapted to the humid tropical climate of the region. DMA Architects, based in Ho Chi Minh City, addressed these requirements through a split-level design approach. This design uses common spaces as integral circulation paths, promoting a fluid transition between different areas of the house. The living room and kitchen, identified as central areas for daily family life, are positioned strategically near the main skylight to ensure they receive ample natural light. On the third floor, a semi-enclosed terrace provides a sheltered space, offering respite from urban noise and visual distractions from the surrounding city. This terrace is conceived as a versatile area, suitable for family and social gatherings, or for quieter activities such as yoga and meditation. The overall design prioritizes climatic responsiveness, natural light, and ventilation while creating a private and functional living environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #VietnameseArchitecture #SlantedRoof #ConcreteDesign #NaturalLight #Ventilation #UrbanResidence #GreenBuilding #SplitLevelDesign

The residential project "Les Vergers" by Comamala Ismail in Delémont, Switzerland, sets a high standard for architectural and environmental design. Each apartment occupies an entire floor, ensuring privacy and panoramic views of the Vallée de Delémont and the Val Terbi. The building's prime location on the first terrace of the Sorne offers residents an exceptional vantage point. The structural integrity of Les Vergers is maintained by a load-bearing core composed of concrete walls and columns. These elements are strategically set back from the facade, allowing for flexible and modular room configurations, particularly in the facade areas. The interior spaces are characterized by their open and expansive design, promoting a sense of generosity and fluidity. Material selection emphasizes sustainability and natural aesthetics. The facade is entirely crafted from well-insulated wood, featuring untreated, split fir shingles sourced directly from the Franches-Montagnes region. This choice not only provides a natural and visually appealing exterior but also highlights a commitment to local materials and traditional craftsmanship. The construction deliberately avoids synthetic materials, opting instead for mineral materials such as natural stone, stoneware, and steel. Oak is extensively used for interior elements, including windows, flooring, and custom built-in cupboards, contributing to a cohesive and warm interior environment. Environmental considerations are central to the design of Les Vergers. The building incorporates an advanced comfort ventilation system equipped with heat recovery technology, ensuring efficient air circulation and indoor climate control. A ground loop pre-conditions the supply air, adjusting its temperature before it enters the ventilation unit, further enhancing energy efficiency. The annual primary heating energy requirement of the building is remarkably low, staying below 1.5 liters of fuel oil equivalent per square meter. To meet heating and hot water demands, Les Vergers utilizes a heat pump combined with geothermal probes. This system is further supported by a roof-mounted solar system that generates electricity for both building services and the three apartments. These energy-efficient solutions enable residents to align with the principles of the 2000-watt society, a vision for sustainable energy consumption. The project, including its comprehensive energy systems and material choices, exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern architectural principles with rigorous environmental standards, aiming to provide a high quality of life with minimal ecological impact. #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #SwissArchitecture #WoodFacade #EnergyEfficiency #NaturalMaterials #ComamalaIsmail