Abstract
The study investigates an autonomous housing project for eleven families in Feldkirch/Austria. This project combines a radical mix of societal alternative, typological innovation and tectonic efforts.
The dwelling addressed four key design objectives: 'radically cost efficiency', 'ecological approach', 'individual homes in a communal frame' and the possibility of developing a 'self-build' system.
All four objectives required a strong tectonic strategy.
To meet these objectives a subversive typology was developed, including a common corridor and a cost-optimized primary structure that allowed different housing sizes. A set of specified facade-elements provided individuality and adaptability. The smaller houses could 'grow' over time, reusing these elements in a new assemblage - an early life cycle approach.
'Ecological buildings' of the 80's had a stronger focus on 'natural' materials and healthy indoor climate than on energy consumption. Innovative structural elements and technical systems were implemented with sophisticated details.
The roles of the architect included and combined those of designer, mediator, mastermind for overcoming legal obstacles, accountant, supervisor and instructor.
The aim of this paper is to document the original design and the group process of 'Ökologische Gemeinschaftswohnanlage Nofels' and to deliver a productive comparison with conclusions for new projects how this highly ambitious habitat has performed and developed over 3 decades.
The dwelling addressed four key design objectives: 'radically cost efficiency', 'ecological approach', 'individual homes in a communal frame' and the possibility of developing a 'self-build' system.
All four objectives required a strong tectonic strategy.
To meet these objectives a subversive typology was developed, including a common corridor and a cost-optimized primary structure that allowed different housing sizes. A set of specified facade-elements provided individuality and adaptability. The smaller houses could 'grow' over time, reusing these elements in a new assemblage - an early life cycle approach.
'Ecological buildings' of the 80's had a stronger focus on 'natural' materials and healthy indoor climate than on energy consumption. Innovative structural elements and technical systems were implemented with sophisticated details.
The roles of the architect included and combined those of designer, mediator, mastermind for overcoming legal obstacles, accountant, supervisor and instructor.
The aim of this paper is to document the original design and the group process of 'Ökologische Gemeinschaftswohnanlage Nofels' and to deliver a productive comparison with conclusions for new projects how this highly ambitious habitat has performed and developed over 3 decades.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication date | Mar 2016 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Publication status | Published - Mar 2016 |
| Event | SBE16 - Hamburg, Germany Duration: 8 Mar 2016 → 11 Mar 2016 |
Conference
| Conference | SBE16 |
|---|---|
| Country/Territory | Germany |
| City | Hamburg |
| Period | 08/03/2016 → 11/03/2016 |
Keywords
- radical cost efficient
- ecological housing
- indvidual homes in communal frame
- self-building
Artistic research
- No