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Architectural Cases

Six Courtyards House: A Harmonious Blend of Art and Nature

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Nestled in the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the Six Courtyards House represents a visionary architectural project by VOID, meticulously crafted for a homeowner with a deep appreciation for art and a desire for an intimate connection with the natural world. This 400 square meter single-family residence, completed in 2025, is ingeniously structured around a series of six strategically placed courtyards. These voids are not merely aesthetic features; they are functional elements that orchestrate the flow of natural light and facilitate optimal cross-ventilation throughout the dwelling. The design masterfully blurs the conventional boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, inviting the vibrant surrounding vegetation into every corner of the home and creating a continuous dialogue with its environment. At the heart of this architectural ensemble lies the main courtyard, featuring a captivating central pool, which serves as the primary communal hub, fostering a sense of gathering and tranquility.

The design philosophy of the Six Courtyards House is centered on harmonizing contemporary living with the inherent beauty of its Costa Rican setting. Each courtyard introduces a unique micro-environment, contributing to the home's overall sensory experience. From secluded meditative gardens to lively social areas, these outdoor rooms extend the living spaces and enhance the resident's connection to nature. The integration of lush greenery not only purifies the air and provides shade but also acts as a natural aesthetic backdrop, transforming daily life into an artistic experience. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the house remains cool and well-lit, reducing the reliance on artificial climate control and lighting, thus promoting a sustainable lifestyle while offering an unparalleled living experience that resonates with both art and nature.

Embracing Nature: The Architectural Philosophy of Six Courtyards

The Six Courtyards House, situated in the picturesque region of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, stands as a testament to architectural innovation by VOID, completed in 2025. This 400 m² single-family residence is specifically tailored for an art enthusiast who sought a living space deeply intertwined with its natural environment. The core concept revolves around six thoughtfully designed courtyards, which act as integral components for space articulation, allowing abundant natural light and cross-ventilation to penetrate the entire structure. This design intent effectively diminishes the division between internal and external realms, bringing verdant vegetation into every living area. The central patio, distinguished by its inviting pool, emerges as the focal point of the home, serving as a vibrant gathering place for residents and guests alike.

The architectural approach of the Six Courtyards House transcends mere functionality; it is a holistic vision aimed at enhancing the occupant's well-being through constant engagement with nature. Each courtyard, unique in its character, provides different spatial experiences—some offer serene retreats for contemplation, while others are designed for vibrant social interactions. This intelligent fragmentation of space ensures privacy where needed, yet maintains an overarching sense of openness and connection. The strategic placement of these green oases promotes passive cooling and natural illumination, minimizing the home's ecological footprint and fostering a comfortable indoor climate. This seamless integration of built form and natural landscape not only offers a visually stunning environment but also cultivates a profound sense of peace and harmony, reflecting the homeowner's artistic sensibilities and commitment to sustainable living.

Seamless Integration: Patios as Catalysts for Indoor-Outdoor Living

Designed by VOID and completed in 2025, the Six Courtyards House in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a 400 m² single-family dwelling conceived for an art lover desiring a deep connection with the natural world. This innovative residence is structured around six distinct courtyards, each serving as a strategic void that masterfully articulates the space. These patios are instrumental in drawing in copious amounts of natural light and facilitating efficient cross-ventilation, thereby creating an expansive atmosphere. The presence of lush vegetation within these courtyards plays a crucial role in dissolving the traditional boundaries between the interior and exterior, ensuring that nature is an omnipresent element in every part of the home. The main patio, centrally located and featuring a prominent pool, acts as the magnetic core of the house, designed to be the primary hub for social interaction and relaxation.

The meticulous design of the Six Courtyards House emphasizes a fluid and dynamic interplay between its indoor and outdoor environments. The series of courtyards, ranging from intimate garden spaces to more expansive recreational areas, are carefully curated to extend the living space beyond the physical walls of the house. This architectural strategy maximizes comfort and livability by providing constant access to fresh air, natural light, and the calming presence of greenery. The central pool area, a striking feature of the main courtyard, not only offers a refreshing retreat but also serves as a visual and social anchor, around which the various wings of the house converge. This design creates a living experience that is both private and open, modern yet deeply rooted in its tropical surroundings, allowing the resident to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle that is intimately connected to the vibrant Costa Rican landscape and the restorative power of nature.

The Red House: A Coastal Oasis by Pacarizi Studio
Architectural Cases

The Red House: A Coastal Oasis by Pacarizi Studio

Snøhetta and BIAD Unveil New Beijing Art Museum Project in Tongzhou
Architectural Cases

Snøhetta and BIAD Unveil New Beijing Art Museum Project in Tongzhou

Circular Composites: Revolutionizing Sustainable Architecture
Architectural Cases

Circular Composites: Revolutionizing Sustainable Architecture

Architectural Cases

Innovative Engineering Education Hub in Besançon, France

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The Franche-Comté Advanced School of Engineering stands as a beacon of modern educational architecture in Besançon, France, a testament to innovative design by Dominique Coulon & associés. Completed in 2024, this sprawling 2105 square meter facility is meticulously crafted to foster an environment conducive to advanced learning and research in engineering. Its design thoughtfully integrates functional spaces, including a versatile hall that can transform from a lecture theater to a conference venue, alongside numerous classrooms and specialized laboratories, emphasizing a dynamic and adaptable learning landscape.

The architectural vision behind the school prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and practical utility, with a prominent use of concrete that contributes to its robust and contemporary character. Beyond the academic spaces, the building incorporates dedicated areas for student interaction and administrative operations, ensuring a holistic campus experience. This project not only signifies a significant addition to higher education infrastructure in France but also exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to designing institutions that meet the evolving demands of engineering pedagogy and technological advancement.

Architectural Vision and Functional Design

The Franche-Comté Advanced School of Engineering, a recent achievement by Dominique Coulon & associés in Besançon, France, showcases a profound understanding of contemporary educational needs. The design philosophy centers on creating highly adaptable and inspiring spaces that facilitate diverse learning modalities. With a total area of 2105 square meters, the facility integrates a large flexible hall capable of hosting both intimate lectures for 100 attendees and expansive conferences for up to 150, demonstrating a commitment to versatile space utilization. This adaptability is crucial for an institution dedicated to the dynamic field of engineering.

Furthermore, the school is equipped with 13 state-of-the-art classrooms, specialized optics practical workrooms, and cutting-edge prototyping and 3D printing labs, reflecting a focus on hands-on learning and technological innovation. The consistent application of concrete as a primary material lends the building a strong, modern identity, while careful planning ensures that both academic and communal spaces, including student common rooms and administrative offices, are seamlessly integrated. This meticulous approach to design ensures that the building not only serves its immediate educational purpose but also stands as a significant architectural landmark.

Fostering Advanced Learning and Collaboration

The core objective of the Franche-Comté Advanced School of Engineering is to cultivate an environment that nurtures advanced learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and pioneering research in the engineering disciplines. The strategic layout of the building promotes interaction and intellectual exchange among students and faculty, with dedicated zones for both structured academic pursuits and informal gatherings. The inclusion of specialized laboratories, particularly those for optics and rapid prototyping, underscores the institution's commitment to equipping future engineers with practical skills and exposure to the latest technological tools and methodologies.

Beyond the classroom and lab settings, the school’s design integrates thoughtful elements aimed at enhancing the overall student experience, such as inviting common areas that serve as hubs for social interaction and collaborative projects. This comprehensive approach ensures that the school is not merely a place of instruction but a vibrant community where innovation thrives. The project, led by Dominique Coulon & associés, represents a significant investment in educational infrastructure, positioning the Franche-Comté Advanced School of Engineering as a leading center for engineering education and research in France.

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Subterranean Structures: Architecture and the Unseen Urban Realm
Architectural Cases

Subterranean Structures: Architecture and the Unseen Urban Realm

Blanche Lemco van Ginkel's Enduring Legacy in Old Montreal's Preservation
Architectural Cases

Blanche Lemco van Ginkel's Enduring Legacy in Old Montreal's Preservation

The Toronto Indigenous Hub: A Visionary Model for Urban Indigenous Communities
Architectural Cases

The Toronto Indigenous Hub: A Visionary Model for Urban Indigenous Communities

Architectural Cases

Giomein Cervinia Residential Interior Redesign by co.arch studio

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The co.arch studio, guided by Andrea Pezzoli and Giulia Urciuoli, embarked on an interior design project within the celebrated Giomein complex in Cervinia. This 120-square-meter residential space, realized in 2025, showcases a profound respect for the alpine surroundings, incorporating natural materials such as timber and masonry. The design's intention is to blend seamlessly with the breathtaking mountain environment, fostering a cozy yet refined living area that embodies both conventional and modern sensibilities. This endeavor stands as a prime example of meticulous architectural engagement within a culturally significant alpine context.

The project by co.arch studio in Cervinia transforms a residential interior within the historic Giomein complex, originally conceived by Mario Galvagni in 1972. This redesign for the 120 square meter space, completed in 2025, is a masterful interpretation of mountain architecture, moving beyond mere scenic appreciation to a deeper engagement with the morphological and perceptual aspects of the alpine environment. Utilizing materials like wood and brick, the design harmoniously integrates the structure with its natural surroundings, offering a contemporary take on a traditional mountain dwelling. The project elegantly balances aesthetic appeal with functional design, creating a living space that feels both timeless and innovative in the heart of the Alps.

Harmonizing Architecture with Alpine Landscape

Co.arch studio’s project in Cervinia is a reimagining of a residential interior within the iconic Giomein complex. Designed by Mario Galvagni and completed in 1972, this complex is perched on the Giomein promontory, offering panoramic views of the Breuil basin and the majestic Cervino. The original structure emerged during a period of rapid expansion in Alpine tourism, characterized by new ski infrastructure and holiday residences. In this context, Giomein was conceived not just as a building amidst a beautiful backdrop but as an integral part of the mountain's natural and sensory system. The studio's intervention respects this foundational philosophy, seeking to enhance the existing dialogue between architecture and nature. This approach ensures that the new interior design does not merely occupy the space but rather elevates the occupant's experience of the surrounding alpine grandeur, making the mountain an active participant in the living environment.

The interior transformation by co.arch studio, led by Andrea Pezzoli and Giulia Urciuoli, for a 120 square meter residence in Cervinia exemplifies a thoughtful architectural response to its alpine setting. Completed in 2025, the design focuses on creating a seamless integration with the natural environment, utilizing natural materials such as diverse types of wood and carefully selected brickwork. The goal was to develop a space that feels deeply connected to its surroundings, reflecting the rugged beauty and serene atmosphere of the Breuil-Cervinia region. This involved not only material choices but also strategic layouts and finishes that echo the natural textures and colors of the Alps. The design pays homage to Mario Galvagni’s original vision for the Giomein complex, which viewed the mountain as a dynamic system rather than a static backdrop. By reinterpreting this vision, co.arch studio has crafted a residential interior that is both modern in its amenities and deeply rooted in its geographical and historical context, providing a luxurious yet authentically alpine living experience.

Crafting Modern Alpine Living Spaces

The interior design project by co.arch studio at Giomein Cervinia represents a sophisticated effort to craft modern living spaces that are deeply embedded in their alpine context. The redesign prioritizes both aesthetic elegance and functional efficiency, creating an environment that is both welcoming and highly practical for contemporary use. The design team carefully selected furniture, fixtures, and finishes to reflect a sense of understated luxury, ensuring that each element contributes to a cohesive and harmonious whole. Special attention was given to optimizing natural light and maximizing views of the stunning mountain scenery, making the most of the unique location. This thoughtful approach transforms the residential unit into a sanctuary where comfort and design excellence meet, offering residents an unparalleled experience of modern mountain living.

The 2025 interior renovation project in Cervinia by co.arch studio demonstrates a profound understanding of modern alpine design, blending functionality with a keen sense of place. Andrea Pezzoli and Giulia Urciuoli's team meticulously planned every aspect of the 120-square-meter space to reflect a contemporary sensibility while honoring the traditional charm of mountain dwellings. This involved incorporating smart home technologies, ergonomic furniture, and innovative storage solutions that enhance convenience without compromising style. The design emphasizes open-plan living areas, allowing for flexible use of space and fostering a sense of community. Rich textiles, custom millwork, and bespoke lighting fixtures add layers of sophistication and warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and entertainment. By carefully considering both the micro-details of interior elements and the macro-relationship with the surrounding landscape, co.arch studio has delivered a residential interior that is a model of modern alpine comfort and design ingenuity, perfectly suited for its breathtaking location.

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