Location| Southern California, South America / Dubai, UAE
Type| multi-unit residential
Size| 5 stories, 40 units (2,400 sf)

Status| concept

Part 2 of a modular series of housing concepts is the 4×10 Luxury Lofts. This housing concept is based on the common unit used in the 2-4-6-8 Luxury Residences project and is configured into 5 story residential components with shared open air circulation between the units and parking below. A total of 40 units are available with private parking and swimming pools. Like the 2-4-6-8, this concept is intended for a mild to hot climate typical of Southern California and parts of South America, Africa and India. The 4×10 concept is also the design model featured in the previous “Augmented Reality” post.

Please review the first part of this series > 2-4-6-8 Luxury Residences [concept]

All images and content are the property of rui duarte DESIGN and may only be used with written consent. Copyright 2010, All Rights Reserved

design images

Location| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Dubai, UAE
Type| multi-unit residential
Size| 690 feet, 42 stories, 168 units (2,400 sf)

Status| concept

Recently in conversation a few colleagues of mine were discussing modular construction and how it was only attributed to small-medium residential applications. Well I took the conversation topic to heart and started to look at a residential tower concept where most pieces are to be pre-fab and lifted into place. At the moment several other experts are looking at the design and determining what components could indeed be pre-fab. The design is also looking into sustainability and energy conservation. Structurally a concrete and steel frame with pre-cast concrete, metal panel exterior cladding would be used. This is a design concept and not a realized project; however the design is targeted at a warmer climate such a Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo area.

UPDATE: Please review the second part of this series > 4×10 Luxury Lofts

All images and content are the property of rui duarte DESIGN and may only be used with written consent. Copyright 2009, All Rights Reserved

design images

Location| Scituate, RI
Type| additions and alterations
Area| 1,000 sf
Association| SPM Design

Status| unbuilt

This project is about adding functionality to an existing post war gambrel roof two story dutch colonial. The owners are requesting various upgrades primarily focused on a new kitchen, master bedroom suite and piano room. The house is in good sound condition and has not been upgraded since its construction.

One objective is to transform the appearance of the house due to the solidity of the gambrel roof form. By adding a new front porch and upper story dormers the house begins to look more rural and appropriate for its 3 acre site. The kitchen was originally built as a bonus room on the left side of the house, ideally the owner would like to connect the kitchen to the garage for direct interior access and add a mudroom. The new kitchen area will also include a dining area, butler’s pantry and outdoor area under the new porch. A new addition will be added to the right side of the house in the form of a unique eight sided piano room with windows on each side, creating a pavilion like setting with the outdoors. A third addition is at the back of the house for the master bedroom suite.

The project is currently in a very initial feasibility phase in order to set a construction budget and determine the project scope. The owners are interested in maximizing off-grid energy sources and are considering alternative GREEN technologies.

UPDATE: The Owner has changed their mind and is now looking to sell the property on account of construction cost vs. property value.

design review

Location| Providence, RI
Type| new construction proposal (RFP)
Area| 6,650 sf
Association| SPM Design

Status| unbuilt

The Narragansett Bay Commission recently allocated land and funds for the construction of a new animal shelter during a land acquisition transaction with the City Of Providence. The proposal animal shelter is designed to meet a stringent budget and accommodations of program, and is situated on small parcel on the city’s south side.

Working with a local contractor, the design of the building evolved to maintain a “New England style on a shoe-string budget”. The exterior shell and roof of the facility are detailed with energy efficiency and minimal construction materials. The interiors feature washable surfaces and custom kennel designs. Attention is focused mainly on the front entrance where the public is welcome by a trellis and a double height reception space.

design models and renderings|