Casa Quadrata | Schematic Study
Site | Yas Acres Phase Development​
​
Location | North phase of Yas Island, Abu Dhabi(UAE)
​
Zoning ​based on Development Control Regulations (DCR's) Report
​
Casa Quadrata, located on YAS Island, embodies a multi-generational family housing committed to optimal environmental sustainability. Through a blend of passive and active strategies, it aims to minimize embodied energy waste and effectively tackle future environmental challenges while promoting naturally ventilated and walkable communities. Drawing inspiration from ancient passive techniques/technologies such as "Qanats" (underground Aqueducts), and shaded cloisters were historically used for the natural ventilation and cooling effects through the use of underground water irrigation and air shaft supply systems to regulate environmental challenges during the the heat and humidity seasons.
​
Casa Quadrata enhances these strategies to prioritize energy efficiency and integrate superior thermal comfort solutions. Critical to the design goals is the cross ventilation and natural airflow of spatial components. The design intent incorporates intensified plantation zones and water canals with smart irrigation systems to harness natural ventilation and enhance the cooling effect of prevailing winds, effectively cooling the interior environment, improving thermal comfort, and reducing energy consumption.
​
Casa Quadrata embodies sustainable design principles by seamlessly blending efficient architectural solutions with thoughtful spatial and environmental considerations. It bridges historical inspirations with contemporary needs, ensuring resilience against environmental challenges.
"Tree is leaf and leaf is tree, city is house and house is city"
(Aldo van Eyck)
Figure 1 & 2 | Images capture the rounded air shafts and water reservoirs / resting areas of the "Qanat"/ underground "Aqueduct" | Yazd, Iran
December 21st, noon
June 21st, noon
Beyond the proposal’s environmental considerations, Casa Quadrata deploys a highly efficient spatial organization that accommodates individual needs of a multi-generational family, while enhancing connections an between indoor, semi-indoor, and outdoor spaces. The master bedroom wing on the ground floor provides enhanced privacy and integrates with outdoor gardens through green terraces, blurring indoor-outdoor boundaries. A central double-height courtyard serves as a natural ventilation hub and illuminates the upper-level children’s areas. This versatile space includes a suspended semi-private, multi-functional module room, seamlessly integrated within the courtyard. It provides access to outdoor gardens and upper-floor programs, catering to diverse family needs such as Majlis gatherings, greenhouse activities, play areas, and sports rooms.
​
​
