Final House Concepts

Toolbox & Concepts

The following document is intended to be a base for the development of different design strategies that can be applied to SHIFT, and to explore new ways of visualizing the components that make up an architectural solution.

It is a living document, we can modify and adjust these parameters to focus on a specific typology or solution.

Strategies toolbox

Strategies toolbox

Basic concepts

Different strategies applicable to the design of the houses are detailed. The intention is to choose several of these concepts as a bases for the different design iterations. Each of these concepts can provide a unique characteristic and the combination of these will make the final result more interesting.

Three important axes of sustainability are proposed that can be applied to the house design and overall systems. Some are basic concepts, others are systems that have not been used so much in the country and will require separate professionals, however it is a great opportunity to convert buildings into more efficient systems.

We detail several elements that somehow shape the architecture, from the positioning on the ground, the mass in general, the roof and its envelope, each one fulfills a specific function and its shape depends on this. They are taken as a base and you can vary or use some more.

Roof

Placement

Strategies toolbox Sustainability

Different alternatives that can be implemented as part of the architectural design, we represent only these, since there are solutions that do not modify the volumetry to be implemented. Like the solar energy storage or catchment.

Ventilation Crossed

Used in conjunction with fans and outdoor shade, it is the most efficient way to maintain the temperature of a space.

Ventilation Tower Ventilation EAHE

Water Storage

Water Catchment

It can be used as an air extraction system by pressure, an analysis of the wind volumes should be made to check its use.

Earth Air Heat Exchange is a system that allows the air to be maintained at the same temperature by using the earth as a regulator.

It is possible to built spaces destined to temporary storage for use inside the house or as a method of delaying and inflitration to the ground.

Currently, there are several ways to capture water, but the most common is to use the roof during the rainy season.

Strategies toolbox

Landscape Relation (Horizon)

The following options focus on the impact a certain buidling, or house, in this case, has on the landscape it is situated in, specially in terms of visual impact. Levels of openness and visual range from the house and from the outside.

Introvert Configuration

Extrovert Configuration

Focuses on spaces that look inwards, creating atmospheres in between gardens and having outdoor views whilst remaining private.

Creates a bigger presence on the landscape and focuses mainly on outdoor views of the horizon.

Strategies toolbox

Architecture - Massing

The basic characteristics of the volume or the main mass of the dwelling. It begins with a solid block that can be modified until it reaches several volumes that are completely integrated into its environment.

Single Block

Composed of a pure solid block, with intentional openings, consisting of a play between the mass and the openings.

Patio Block Perforated Block

DoubleBlock Multiple Block

Composed of a solid block, perforated inside. Its geometry may vary.

This block is perforated laterally, it remains as a solid block.

Two separate volumes that are joined at one point to give it unity.

They are different distributed program blocks, which can be connected by an element or simply scattered.

Strategies toolbox

Architecture - Roof

The roof fulfills a vital function for the hot climates of our country since it is where we are going to have greater solar incidence. Its geometry can vary depending on the aesthetics or function that it is going to fulfill.

Double Pitch A

Double Pitch B

One of the most traditional roofs. It works very well as it allows high spaces to dissipate heat and reduces the opening angle to the sun.

It reverses the previous pattern, and allows greater solar incidence on the side facades, it is recommended that it be used with another lateral protection element.

Flat Single Pitch Dome Multiple

It is an excellent option for more living space or for a green roof to reduce internal temperatures.

A very simple and optimal bucket for the collection of water in a single point.

A very expressive geometry that can function as an upper ventilation element.

The combination of elements can result in a very expressive element, care must be taken and sobriety must always be maintained.

Strategies toolbox

Architecture - Envelope

It is the second most important component in terms of solar protection and is also an important element in architectural expression.

Solid Perforated Combined

It forms a pure and solid element which functions as the main façade or it can be a completely separate element that provides direct protection.

Allows some degree of solar insidency and screening of light into the interior, these can be fixed or movable and of different patterns.

As its name indicates, it is the combination of the two strategies mentioned.

Strategies toolbox

Architecture - Placement

It determines how the house will be located and what will be the relationship with its surroundings. It is directly related to the topography where it will be located and the land use strategy.

Stilts A Block Stilts B

It is placed as a solid mass uniform with the upper volume. Leaving open space below the volume.

Slightly raised above the ground, it can function as a great strategy for ventilation and cooling.

A structure can be created on a sloping terrain to extend a volume. The structure becomes the main element.

The main volume is completely detached from the site, creating a new outdoor living space.

The volume flies over the ground without any kind of support.

In this case the volume is placed below ground level. Giving it continuity.

The volume starts with the same ground level, developed on several levels.

Toolbox implementation

Toolbox implementation

Concept connections

All parameters are chosen to be applied to the five solutions. Each of the solutions has different characteristics that allow a unique and different design.

Architecture

M Massing

Envelope R Roof

P Placement

Sustainability

Water

Ventilation

Sun

Landscape relation

TreatmentTowerCrossed EAHE Catchment Storage

StorageCatchment

Introvert

Extrovert

Sustainability

Single Architecture

PatioPerforatedDoubleMultipleDoublePitch

DoublePitchBFlat

SinglePitchDome

Multiple Solid

Perforated Combined

Rammed Earth

Metal

Clay Tile

Compacted Dirt (earth block)

Concrete Stone Wood

Materials

Block A

Block B

Stilts A

Raised Stilts B

Cantilever

Grounded

Concept visualization

Bridge House

Pergola House

Villa House

Tower House

Farm House

** All solutions are implemented in lot 5 of FFPI 3.

Bridge House

Bridge House Development

An upper volume that cantilever over the terrain, taking advantage of the topography to create a lower space which is protected. This allows an open space to the outside without sacrificing privacy. The volumes are configured with the intention of taking advantage of different internal patios that function as a strategy for ventilation, lighting and maintaining a direct relationship with nature. Looking for greater spatiality and a hot air extraction solution, a roof dome is proposed in the upper volume, breaking the linearity of the facade.

Access level

Bridge House

R Dome + Multiple

E Combined

E Combined

P Block B + Cantilever

Pergola House

Pergola House

Pergola House Access level Development

Using the topography as guide, the residence is broken down into three staggered volumes, leaving the social space in the upper area and moving the more private spaces to the lower levels. This decomposition allows for open circulation spaces, establishing a new relationship between the residence and the way it is lived in. The large pergola-like roof allows bigger translucent spaces that won’t be affected by the elements.

Pergola House

Villa House Development

This residence seeks to be an extension of the environment, it is proposed as green roofs that help lower the internal temperature of the spaces, combined with cross ventilation and internal courtyards as the main climate control strategies. To establish a more intense relationship with the environment, the volumes are placed separately from each other, creating a covered exterior circulation throughout the house. Leaving the social area as the first relationship space and as the house circulates towards the more private spaces.

Access level

Villa House

Tower House Development

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence. One of its sides is designed as a hot air extraction facade. Programmatically, the social area is located on the intermediate level, to have an immediate relationship with the surroundings; the private spaces are distributed on the lower and upper levels.

Tower House

Farm House

Farm House Development Access level

Through the dislocation of two volumes this house is formed, where one functions as the base of the other. The main social volume is proposed as a pure volume with a gable roof that allows the circulation of hot air from the sides to the highest point, the living space is retracted as a vernacular strategy and it’s protected by a screen that seeks to have bigger openings that allow cross ventilation in all spaces which is sought to be highlighted by being suspended in the air.

Concept Implementation

Tower House

Villa House

Multiblock Configuration

Tower House

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence.

Multi blocks

Multi blocks

Op.1

Social Ground level and bedrooms with garden roof access.

Op. 2

Ground and third level bedrooms, social second level with garden roof access.

Covered garden / Balconies

Covered Gardens - Shade

Covered garden / Balconies

Interchangable Programs

Multiblock Configuration

Tower House

Multiblock Configuration Tower

Third Floor Roof

Multiblock Configuration

Tower House

Displaced Block Configuration

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence.

Base Monolithic Volume

Base-Social Volume

Displaced Volume

Bedroom volume

Bedroom volume

Op.1

Social Ground level and bedrooms with garden roof access.

Op. 2

Ground and third level bedrooms, social second level with garden roof access.

Second Floor Garden

Second Floor Garden

Second Level Garden Interchangable Programs

Displaced Block Configuration

Tower House

Displaced Block Configuration

Third Floor Roof

Displaced Block Configuration

Tower House

Floating Block Configuration

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence. Base

Social garden

Social garden

Op.1

Ground and third level bedrooms, social second level with garden ramp access.

Op. 2

Third level social area with horizon view. Ground and second level bedrooms with access to lot and garden ramp.

Elevated Volume

Third level volume

Elevated Volume

Interchangable Programs

Floating Block Configuration

Tower House

Floating Block Configuration

Tower

Third Floor

Floating Block Configuration

Tower House

Pyramid Configuration

Tower House

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence.

Pyramidal Distribution of Space

Sculptural Enclosure

Sculptural

Sculptural Enclosure

Sculptural Enclosure

Op.1

Social Ground level and horizon view bedrooms.

Op. 2

Second or third level social spaces with horizon views.

Openings for views and shape

Punctual Openings for views

deformation of shade

Punctual Openings for views

Interchangable Programs

Pyramid Configuration

Tower House

Pyramid Configuration

Pyramid Configuration

Tower House

Loft Configuration

Tower House

Seeking to minimize the built footprint, a uniform volume that grows in height is proposed, the internal spaces are retracted inward to minimize exposure and possible radiation, different double height spaces between levels are created allowing greater air flow between the residence.

Sculptural Enclosure

Sculptural Enclosure

Op.1

Social Ground level and horizon view bedrooms.

Op. 2

Second or third level social spaces with horizon views. Ground level bedrooms.

Openings and skin

Openings and skin

Openings and skin

Interchangable Programs

Loft Configuration

Tower House

Loft Configuration Tower

Loft Configuration

Tower House

Villa Houses

Block Configuration

Loop Configuration

Patio Configuration

Open Configuration

Separate Blocks Configuration

Villa House

In this proposal, the separation of main spaces into three volumes, creates patios and gardens in between them. By separating this spaces, we seek an outdoor focused living. Two volumes present themsleves closed to the main acces by large walls, whilst the social volume is open an inviting.

Voids

Voids

Op.1

Social area connected to garden and private balconies in bedrooms

Op. 2

Bedrooms connected to garden and enclosed social area.

Open social area + outdoor terrace

Open and Closed Views

Interchangable Programs

Separate Blocks Configuration

Villa House

Separate Blocks Configuration

First

Second Floor Roof

Separate Blocks Configuration

Villa House

Separate Blocks Configuration

Villa House

Loop Configuration

The proposal is based on an ongoing circulation between patios, green roofs and terraces that follow the shapes of the house, thus creating a loop. Both volumes that conform this proposal follow the lot topography to focus on clear uniterrupeted views.

Central garden + Open space

Central garden + Open space

Op.1

Entrance social level with views of the patio and access to terrace and private groudn level bedrooms

Op.

2

Upper floor bedrooms with view terrace and lower level with central patio access.

Loop circulation

Continuous Circulation: from patio to terrace and green roofs.

Interchangable Programs

Loop Configuration

Villa House

Loop Configuration

Second Floor Roof

Loop Configuration

Villa House

Loop Configuration

Villa House

Patio Configuration

This residence seeks to be an extension of the environment thanks to an open plaza stair that invites guests and residents to live through the garden. The main patio, as well as in other proposals, serves as a distribution space.

Central garden + Open space

Op.1

Entrance social level with views of the patio and access to terrace and private groudn level bedrooms

Op. 2

Upper floor bedrooms with view terrace and lower level with central patio access.

Open front facade

Open Front Facade Interchangable Programs

Central garden + Open space

Patio Configuration

Villa House

Patio Configuration

First

Second Floor Roof

Patio Configuration

Villa House

Patio Configuration

Villa House

Open Organic Configuration

This proposal has rounder shapes and organic volumes that follow an open distirbution. Internal and external spaces merge into each other thanks to terraces and large roofs that cover parts of them.

Central garden

Op.1

Social Ground level and horizon view bedrooms.

Op. 2

Second or third level social spaces with horizon views. Ground level bedrooms.

Soft Edges and Openness

Interchangable Programs

Open Organic Configuration

Villa House

Open Organic Configuration

First

Second Floor Roof

Open Organic Configuration

Villa House

Open Organic Configuration

Villa House

Topography

Parameters - Concept Implementation

The general concept is to follow topographical conditions and merge each with landscape.

I. In steeper lots, accesed in the highest points, both tower and villa houses can adapt into the topography.

II. Flatter lots can hold villa houses in a ground level configuration, separating different areas and creating gardens in between them without a too agressive placement on the land.

C B A Flatter lots

Moderately steep lot

Steeper lots

Placement and Access Parameters -

Concept Implementation

This refers to how the houses will affect the visual and natural configuration of its context. The general idea is to balance the heights of the structures in the neighborhood.

I. The tower house is placed on steep lots and mainly on those lots on the perimeter of the neighborhood to procure the sense of openness.

II. On the other hand, the villa house can work on steep lots, following the topography and on flatter lots, creating gardens in between spaces. This house configuration is placed on areas where less obstructed views are needed.

Steep lots accesed from the highest point

Lots accesed from the highest point

Flatter Lots

Views From the House Parameters - Concept Implementation

Two main scenarios have been procured. Either strenghtening views Wor following a stronger connection with the immediate nature.

I. Open views lots, can hold villa houses, ensuring a good use of the visuals without obstructing other lots. Tower houses are a good solutions for those lots with the possibility of having horizon views.

II. Lots without horizon views, villa houses create internal atmospheres, through gardens and jungle views.

Lots without horizon views. Jungle and garden views.

Moderate view lots with possibility of having horizon views

Open view lots (to horizon)

Lot Size Parameters - Concept Implementation

Lots size will eventually determine in the implementation of both houses and the variations applied to them, for example bedroom number and, patios and social spaces.

I. While tower houses have a smaller house footprint, usefull for small lots,

II. Villa houses can adapt their size for both large and small ones.

Small lots

Medium size lots

Large lots

Proposed house type

Parameters - Concept Implementation

The general configuration and concept implementation of this cluster follows topography curves to mimic the natural qualities of the land.

Aditionally the apartment complex follows similar patterns and adapts to the lot´s topography. As a result, each apartment can have uniterrupted views of the horizon.

Concept Implementation on FFPI 03

Sections

Drawing from two of the five primary housing concepts, an analysis has been conducted to determine how these schematic ideas can fit and adapt to the different lots in Shift’s neighborhood 03.

For example: Whilst the villa house adapts to the lots in a more subtle way, following certain topography patterns, the tower house can be helpfull for more compact housing in areas where outdoor visuals could be reinforced.

House Placements

Sections

As shown in the sections, villa houses adapt to steep and flat terrains, leaving the tower houses in specific lots to focus on horizon views and maximizing space in a compact foot print.

Creeks, trails, and roads have better physical and visual connection to the houses and other neighborhood areas as a result of a height and size balance in the residences.

Villa House

Tower House

2 Tower House

Tower House

Villa House

Water Run off

Section A

Villa House Villa House

Villa House

Villa House Water Run off Road-Trails

Trails Trails

Section B

Common Areas

Step 01 New Connections

Whilst the central water run off-creek in the neighborhood creates a unique atmosphere and a sense of openness, it also divides the cluster by half, the main idea is to focus on the walking trails and sidewalks to create a new circulation axis inmersed in nature.

Common areas proposed lot

Circulation-Sidewalks-Connection points

New main axis

Villa House

Common Areas

Step 02 Bridge-Park

The common house is concpetualized as a bridge that connects the neighborhood through this main axis. It acts as a green park, where various cultural, recreational and ecological activities can take place, while also enhancing the views of the creek and farm.

Common areas proposed lot

Common house-Bridge

New main axis

Common Areas

Step 03 Community Spaces

Programs are strategically placed to enchace views and strenghten the sense of community. The kitchen is placed in between most programs, to enchance the sense of gathering around health, food and community.

Lap Pool and Family Pools

Kitchen and Dining

Co working-Meeting rooms

Changing rooms-sauna-massage rooms-juice bar

Fitness center-gym

Lounge areas

Park-shared garden