Ushida Findlay Architects (UFA) recently received permission to build this gorgeous eco-friendly, multi-family Park House compound in Preston, UK. The stunning design incorporates sustainable elements such as solar power, extensive use of natural light, and locally-sourced materials, but its defining element is certainly the undulating green roof that links the homes of five branches of a single family.
Even under ideal circumstances it can sometimes be difficult to implement progressive design ideas in residential architecture. No one is more aware of this than Ushida Findlay Architects whose visionary Starfish house won a prestigious RIBA competition to design a country home for the 21st century, only to be usurped by Grafton Hall, a conservative, neoclassical design by architect Robert Adam.
It comes as no surprise then that Edinburgh-based UFA is celebrating the imminent construction of their new project. The defining feature of the Park House is an undulating green roof of indigenous plants that ties the residences together. The entire 2600 sq. m. [28,000 sq. ft.] compound features five separate homes, four stories each [one underground], shared recreational areas, organic lines, a low carbon footprint, and what appears to be a stylized moat surrounding the entire built area.
The design is the result of extensive collaboration between UFA, Fieldwork at the University of Dundee, Buro Happold’s Generative Geometry Unit, Ramboll Whitbybird and the Holmes partnership in Glasgow. According to Ms. Findlay, “It is quite a feat to get planning for such an unusual building but we achieved it because everyone was meticulous in their work and we presented an application that addressed all aspects of the site, the building and its successful realization.”
Congratulations to all involved and we’re looking forward to seeing the final product!
+ Ushida Findlay Architects
Via World Architecture News
This looks strangely familiar…. Renzo Piano, Paul Klee Museum…. Check it out!
I want be part of a system or a group that take care of the environment.
This concept has been on going for a good while since about the 60s I think Ford tried something like this once. I’m glad to see it gather more support in recent years. Maybe one day if I find it ethical to build a house I’ll be able to use the concept.