Roccascalegna Constellations
year / 2017
location / Roccascalegna, Italy
type / competition project
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macro concept
...where the disposition of the units is based on star constellations Ursa major and Ursa minor which serve as a great concept for positioning these new buildings. Ursa major – contains the largest units, starting from observatory villa, which is placed at the very edge of the area thus offering maximum peace and quiet for the guests, followed by observatory houses and observatory apartments. Ursa minor is placed just below the massive walls of Roccascalegna castle. Ursa minor constellation is formed by a group of five observatory cabins intended for guests who enjoy trekking and are often on the move. Simpler building requirements and considerably lighter weight of these cabins is perfect for fragile terrain around this medieval masterpiece.
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Micro concept
...regards the design of the units itself. Each and every unit is unique when it comes to its from, facade design and roof terrace. Roof terrace offers one of a kind viewpoint of the nature surrounding Roccascalegna but more importantly make a private and focused sky observatory. They elevate visitors and get them a bit closer to the sky. Every unit has its own private relaxation place, regardless of the ‘spending-capacity’ of the visitor. One is designed with lush gardens, others with a zen garden, grill, jakuzzi etc. So, units are consisted out of three levels thus reducing the footprint and the total area they take away from the nature.
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FACADE
Units are consisted of a steel structure and steel sheet facades. Facade design offers a clear distinction between a 600-year-old castle and modern accommodation units, which, in their simplicity, respect the beauty of this castle. Perforations on the facades gradually fade from densely perforated – bottom and middle part, to almost no perforations on the top. This distinguishes the day zones and the night zones. Day zones offer more light and night zones reduce light intake for rest and sleep. Bedrooms of all accommodation units are designed with a zenithal window, which allows a direct view towards the sky - while in bed. It is possible to open the perforated shell for a clean view of the surroundings - with mechanical screens witch are built in the facade.
· Section ·
· Facades ·
· Units ·
· View from the tower and restaurant ·
