Valeria Potapova
student
Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building
Russian Federation
Urban Design and Landscape
The second task of the contest is " Schindler's Ark" is the creation of a prototype of sustainable housing in the former industrial areas of the factory. This… more
Samer Samarani
advisor
USEK - Holy spirit University of Kaslik
United States of America
Residential - Commercial - Health - open space - Landscape more
The project is very well presented, demonstrating strong skills in postproduction and renderings. The student shows a keen awareness of the natural landscape, and the incorporation of a green corridor into the master plan is a key aspect of the design. Sustainability practices have been introduced in detail, showcasing the student’s understanding of how various systems work together. The site analysis is also clear, emphasizing the project’s proximity to the rail and adjacent roads, which further supports its planning rationale.
However, I encourage the student to further justify the shapes of the new buildings and reflect on the materiality in comparison to the existing and preserved structures on the site. Working on a site where existing buildings need to be preserved can be challenging, so finding a balance between the old and new structures is essential for maintaining harmony within the project.
Incorporating an educational component into the landscape design, such as a bioswale or bioretention areas, would add value by addressing sustainability while also offering an opportunity for public engagement. This could make the project more dynamic and integrated with its environmental goals.
Overall, this project is an excellent example of urban planning. I would recommend considering material selection more carefully, both for the architectural components (e.g., façades) and the landscape elements (e.g., pathways and roads). Using impervious materials that help drain the site would strengthen the sustainability aspects and enhance the functionality of the landscape.