Architectural Cases

The SAR Residence in Saraiķi, Latvia, exemplifies a remarkable architectural endeavor that breathes new life into historical remnants. This project by OAD - Open Architecture Design, completed in 2024, ingeniously repurposes former Soviet-era military bunkers into a contemporary and sustainable living space. Spanning 780 square meters, the residence comprises a main dwelling and two guest houses, designed to accommodate a multi-generational family. The core ethos of the design revolves around harmoniously integrating the structures with the fragile Baltic coastal dune environment, thereby championing an alternative, eco-conscious approach to architecture.

The transformation of these timeworn, grass-covered military bunkers into a vibrant residential complex is a testament to sustainable architectural practices. The project's location along the Baltic coast underscores a commitment to safeguarding one of the world's most vulnerable marine regions. By adapting existing structures rather than initiating new constructions, the architects minimized environmental impact while honoring the site's unique historical context.

Each of the three structures—the primary home and two auxiliary guest houses—was thoughtfully conceived to provide comfortable and functional living spaces. The design respects the original footprints of the bunkers, utilizing their robust forms as a foundation for modern extensions and interiors. This adaptive reuse strategy not only reduces material consumption but also creates a distinctive aesthetic that blends military history with contemporary design principles.

The architects focused on creating a seamless connection between the indoor living areas and the surrounding natural landscape. Large windows and strategically placed openings allow abundant natural light to penetrate the interiors, offering expansive views of the coastal dunes. The material palette, likely incorporating natural elements, further enhances this connection, fostering a sense of tranquility and integration with nature.

Moreover, the multi-generational aspect of the residence speaks to a broader understanding of sustainability, extending beyond environmental concerns to encompass social and familial longevity. By providing distinct yet interconnected living units, the SAR Residence facilitates communal living while ensuring individual privacy, adapting to the evolving needs of a diverse family.

The SAR Residence stands as a model for thoughtful architectural intervention, demonstrating how a site's past can inform a sustainable future. Through the innovative conversion of military infrastructure, OAD has created a distinctive and environmentally responsible dwelling that respects both history and nature. This project not only offers a unique living experience but also highlights the potential for architectural design to contribute positively to ecological preservation and community building along sensitive coastlines.

Amoha Villas, situated in Beze, India, represents a sophisticated blend of architectural innovation and environmental stewardship. Designed by Atelier Landschaft and completed in 2025, this lodging complex encompasses 12,000 sq ft of meticulously planned spaces, offering a tranquil escape that prioritizes sustainability and local heritage. The project integrates natural materials, such as locally sourced stone and wood, with contemporary design principles, fostering a deep connection between the built environment and its verdant surroundings. Every aspect of the design, from the strategic placement of windows to the use of passive cooling techniques, aims to enhance guest comfort while minimizing ecological impact. This holistic approach ensures that Amoha Villas not only provides a luxurious experience but also stands as a testament to harmonious coexistence with nature.

The development at Amoha Villas, crafted by Atelier Landschaft, is a premier example of lodging architecture in Beze, India, completed in 2025. Spanning an expansive 12,000 square feet, the project stands out for its commitment to sustainable design, seamlessly blending into the natural landscape. The use of natural materials like stone and wood, alongside thoughtful integration of glass and steel, creates a modern yet earthy aesthetic. Each villa is designed to maximize natural light and cross-ventilation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. This approach not only contributes to the project's eco-friendly credentials but also enhances the living experience, offering residents and guests a profound connection to the serene environment. The design team, including Principal Architect Shruti Dabir and Project Manager Shreenand Dabir, collaborated with various specialists to ensure every detail, from the HVAC systems by Ventus Airconditioning to structural elements by Audumber Wani and Bhauvilas Bhavsar, met the highest standards of sustainability and luxury.

Architectural Design and Integration with Nature

Amoha Villas, conceived by Atelier Landschaft, embodies a design philosophy deeply rooted in connecting with its natural setting in Beze, India. Completed in 2025, the 12,000 sq ft property showcases how architectural brilliance can merge seamlessly with environmental consciousness. The architects utilized indigenous materials such as stone and wood, which not only provide a visually appealing aesthetic but also ensure ecological harmony. The thoughtful layout and strategic placement of each villa facilitate an abundance of natural light and ventilation, minimizing reliance on artificial climate control systems. This integration creates living spaces that are both luxurious and intrinsically linked to the surrounding landscape, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. The project serves as a model for sustainable luxury lodging, demonstrating that high-end design can coexist with a commitment to ecological preservation.

The core architectural vision for Amoha Villas was to create a harmonious retreat that celebrated its natural environment rather than imposing upon it. Atelier Landschaft meticulously planned the structures to blend with the topography of Beze, ensuring minimal disruption to the existing ecosystem. The use of local stone provides a robust and authentic base, while extensive timber elements add warmth and a connection to the forest. Large windows and strategically placed balconies frame breathtaking views, inviting the outdoors in and blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. This design maximizes passive solar gain during cooler months and facilitates natural ventilation during warmer periods, significantly reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, the selection of materials extends beyond aesthetics, with a focus on durability, low maintenance, and local sourcing, contributing to the villas' long-term sustainability. The architecture not only provides shelter but also acts as an immersive platform from which to experience the serene beauty of the Indian landscape.

Sustainable Practices and Material Selection

Atelier Landschaft's design for Amoha Villas in Beze, India, emphasizes sustainable practices and a thoughtful selection of materials. Finished in 2025, this 12,000 sq ft lodging project highlights an eco-conscious approach by incorporating materials like glass, steel, and especially stone and wood, chosen for their natural properties and local availability. This commitment to sustainability extends to the building's operational efficiency, with designs that promote natural cooling and lighting, thereby reducing the carbon footprint. The careful material selection not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the villas but also ensures their durability and minimal environmental impact, aligning luxury with responsibility.

The construction of Amoha Villas demonstrates a profound commitment to environmental responsibility through its innovative use of materials and sustainable building techniques. Natural stone, sourced from nearby quarries, forms the structural and aesthetic backbone of the villas, providing excellent thermal mass for natural insulation. Responsibly harvested timber is extensively used for interior finishes and exterior accents, adding warmth and organic texture. Advanced HVAC systems by Ventus Airconditioning Pvt. Ltd. further optimize energy consumption, while the choice of manufacturers like Daikin, Okkotech, Shree Neelkamal Marbles, Tata Steel, and Ultratech reflects a preference for high-quality, durable, and often locally produced components. This integrated approach ensures that the villas are not only visually stunning and comfortable but also minimize their environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. The project exemplifies a holistic view of sustainable architecture, where every decision, from initial design to final construction, contributes to a greener future.