My first idea which I was trying to follow the whole time was to create exact modules of set measurements from the timber, which are stacked on each other like when child is playing with LEGO. Indeed, there were many issues which I had to tackle with, but in the end I have created my "box of brix".
The task for this project was to build timber multifunctional buildings in fast growing part of Bratislava - Mlynské Nivy. Our "orderer" was company YIT. We had few determining specifications, such as the approximate amount of flats, their area dimensions or including new gindergarten in the complex.
In order to underline the resulting effect of the stacked flats, a façade made of fiber-cement boards having a strip structure was designed. On the apartment house the boards are rotated horizontally and vertically so that each apartment stands out. Green roofs make the climate more pleasant and capture excess rainwater. The need for cooling on hot summer days was also taken into account. Between residential buildings is designed water surface, which in the summer evaporates or large enough trees to form shade and fresh cool air. Technologically, apartment buildings are cooled and heated by a water-to-water heat pump, as the groundwater is high enough. Photovoltaic panels on the roofs of the top floors serve to supply electricity.
CLT panels and ceilings were used as the main structure. 1st floor is made of reinforced concrete. Under each apartment building is a single-storey underground garage, whose entrance is located in the northern part of the lot. Since the underground garages are only below the apartment buildings, it is possible to plant higher and larger trees in the common yard, which further supports the idea of a pleasant climate.