Architectural Cases

This December, Dezeen proudly presents its curated selection of the five most outstanding residential designs, showcasing a spectrum of architectural innovation from around the globe. These featured homes not only represent the pinnacle of modern living but also reflect diverse design philosophies, from fostering community in multi-generational dwellings to integrating artistic pursuits within minimalist structures. The collection highlights a commitment to environmental harmony, adaptable living solutions, and the seamless blending of indoor and outdoor spaces, offering a compelling glimpse into the future of residential architecture.

Harmonious Living: Multi-Generational Homes and Creative Sanctuaries

December's top residential designs reveal a fascinating interplay between communal living and personalized creative spaces. One notable example is a multi-generational home in Vietnam, conceived as a 'breathing' structure that integrates nature and family life through thoughtful design. Complementing this, a minimalist house in Portugal stands out with its innovative inclusion of two recording studios, tailored for musicians. These projects underscore a growing trend towards homes that serve not just as shelters but as dynamic environments supporting various lifestyles, from extended family units to individual artistic endeavors. The emphasis is on creating spaces that are both functional and deeply resonant with their inhabitants' needs and aspirations, often utilizing local materials and responding sensitively to their immediate surroundings.

The Vietnamese multi-generational dwelling, known as 'Terracotta Breath,' is an architectural response to the need for connected yet independent living spaces for different generations. Its design, characterized by perforated brick and clay facades, allows for natural ventilation and a strong connection to its environment, creating a sense of openness and breathability. In contrast, the Portuguese residence for two DJs demonstrates how minimalist aesthetics can accommodate highly specialized functions. Its symmetrical layout, white walls, and strategically placed recording studios within a double-height living area exemplify a design that balances aesthetic purity with practical utility for creative professionals. Both homes, despite their differing contexts and primary functions, share a common thread of innovative space utilization and a profound understanding of their inhabitants' unique requirements, setting a high standard for contemporary residential architecture that prioritizes both beauty and liveability.

Innovative Structures: Adapting to Nature and Future Needs

The December selections further explore architectural adaptability and environmental integration, featuring homes that skillfully merge with their natural surroundings or offer flexible living solutions. A distinctive courtyard house in Spain, thoughtfully embedded into a sloped landscape, maximizes privacy and light while establishing a strong visual link with its site. Meanwhile, a prefabricated holiday home in Brazil demonstrates a commitment to minimal ecological impact, gently elevated above the Atlantic Forest floor. These examples showcase how architects are responding to contemporary challenges by designing structures that are not only visually striking but also environmentally responsible and future-proof. The use of innovative construction techniques and adaptable frameworks allows these homes to exist in harmony with nature and evolve with changing resident needs, pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.

The Spanish 'Patio House' is a masterclass in site-specific design, where its L-shaped wings ingeniously wrap around a central courtyard and swimming pool. This configuration, coupled with folding timber shutters, allows residents to control privacy and sun exposure, while the home's subtle integration into the sloped terrain ensures a harmonious relationship with the landscape. In Australia, the 'Bondi House' exemplifies adaptability through its lightweight metal frame construction, enabling internal and external walls to be easily reconfigured. This design philosophy anticipates future changes in use or family structure, offering a truly flexible living space. The 'Casa Guapuruvus' in Brazil, a prefabricated holiday home, takes environmental sensitivity to heart by minimizing its footprint on the Atlantic Forest. Constructed from a mix of glued-laminated timber, steel, and light-steel framing, and elevated on a concrete base, it represents a thoughtful approach to building in sensitive ecosystems. Together, these homes illustrate a forward-thinking architectural vision that prioritizes environmental stewardship, structural innovation, and the creation of resilient, adaptable living environments.

The ECoRE building, a new academic structure crafted by Boston's Payette studio, now stands proudly in central Pennsylvania, marking a significant addition to Penn State University's campus. This engineering and research facility is distinguished by its unique sculptural contours and exteriors that blend reddish brickwork with elegant metal fins, embodying a modern approach to academic design. It serves as a pivotal center for the College of Engineering, providing a dynamic space for learning and discovery.

Occupying a substantial 280,000 square feet, the ECoRE building is a key component of a larger engineering development master-planned by Payette. This project represents not only an architectural achievement but also a strategic enhancement to the university's infrastructure, designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and support cutting-edge research. Its innovative layout and comprehensive facilities are set to redefine the academic landscape for engineering students and faculty.

The ECoRE Building: A Fusion of Form and Function

The ECoRE building, designed by Boston's Payette studio, is a striking academic facility at Penn State University, distinguished by its sculptural form and facades featuring reddish brick and metal fins. This 280,000 square foot structure serves as the primary hub for the College of Engineering, consolidating diverse functions within its five above-ground and one subterranean levels. The building's design emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and practical utility, creating an environment that supports a wide range of academic and research activities. Its L-shaped plan, along with various cuts and folds, gives it a dynamic appearance that stands out on the campus.

Beyond its visual appeal, the ECoRE building is meticulously planned to accommodate the intricate needs of an engineering college. It houses state-of-the-art laboratories, modern classrooms, administrative offices, and inviting social spaces, including a library and a cafe. The subterranean level is particularly noteworthy, featuring specialized research facilities such as anechoic chambers, wind tunnels, flight simulators, and a unique roto-craft ice-testing facility. These advanced amenities are designed to foster innovation and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration among the engineering departments, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to education and research within a creatively designed architectural shell.

Innovating Academic Environments for Collaboration

The ECoRE building at Penn State University, crafted by Payette, is a testament to innovative academic design, fostering collaboration among its five engineering departments through thoughtfully designed spaces. The building's interior, featuring white oak wall panels, concrete flooring, and metal railings, creates a contemporary and conducive learning environment. A central atrium, known as the Vertical Commons, acts as the social and academic heart of the building, connecting various levels and promoting spontaneous interactions and knowledge exchange among students and faculty. This design philosophy is aimed at reshaping the college's culture by encouraging shared usage and optimizing space for interdisciplinary research and education.

The building’s strategic layout addresses the varied spatial requirements of different functions, such as taller laboratories compared to offices, by employing a "skip-stop" strategy. This innovative approach ensures that every square foot is utilized effectively, facilitating specialized research and general academic pursuits. The southeast facade, overlooking a plaza, serves as the main entrance, welcoming visitors into a vibrant academic community. By integrating advanced research facilities with collaborative social spaces, the ECoRE building not only enhances the educational experience but also positions the College of Engineering at Penn State University as a leader in fostering a dynamic and interactive academic culture for decades to come.