Interview about Lovin Maris Villas Residential Development, winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2022
Quark was chosen for the architecture and interior design of the Lovin Maris Villas. The project consists of 14 modern style villas situated in a quiet, seaside neighborhood in Istanbul. Quarks design concept for this project integrates minimalist aesthetics and comfort with the geographic position of the villas. The positioning of the villas, overlooking the Marmara Sea, combined with large windows, LED cove lighting and spotlighting offers an eye friendly interior. The warm color palette used in the villas is complemented by the use of organic materials and natural textures.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsLocation was very significant to the architectural design due to its location in a seaside area of Maris Villas. We positioned every unit to get the best view of the sea, adjusting the axes of the building to landscapes and terrains. Moreover, the terrain's natural slope has been utilized so that all the units have a deserved sea view regardless of their location in the project. This approach not only develops a relationship of the residents with the environment but also creates an integration of the form and function of minimalist architecture with the coastal-line environment.
When deciding on strategies for integrating natural and artificial lighting our primary goal was to achieve smooth transitions between the interiors and outdoors of the villas while improving the quality of life for residents. Large glass windows extend from the floor up to the ceiling to give the residents a chance to have a clear and warm perception of the Marmara Sea environment. On the other hand, LED cove lighting plays a second part of mood lighting where it is much warmer and tends to throw light on architectural features during the evening time while keeping the comforts and aesthetics in mind. This balance makes the living environment not only warm in the daytime but also interesting at night time.
To achieve such desired privacy levels meanwhile maintaining indoor/outdoor continuity, several design solutions were employed. Floor-to-ceiling glass and exterior terraces are placed predominantly to overlook the Marmara Sea concerning local privacy standards through smartly placed landscaping, screens, and ways of dividing the living space. In this approach, the residents are provided an opportunity to be close to the coast and embrace the features of the coastal environment while at the same time being safe. In this manner, the indoors and the outside are combined most efficiently as they shape a serene but defendable environment to cater to the exclusive needs required by its strategic seaside position.
The richness of warm tones and natural fabrics used in the design of Lovin Maris Villas is a clear indication of establishing a balance between contemporary architecture and nature. Decors such as walnut veneer and Aosta green marble were chosen as luxurious and sensual, which is why the interiors are both comfortable and stylish. The textures, as well as the color schemes, are intended to create a welcoming atmosphere while at the same time responding to the rigorous lines and the lack of ornament in architecture. This philosophy would enforce a living environment that is grand and at the same time organic to the surrounding coastal environment.
In the creation of the three different types of villas in Lovin Maris Villas, therefore, we focused on individual characteristics of space and functional elements that meet the requirements of various lifestyles. Nevertheless, we ensured a semblance of architectural continuity through the use of the same materials, colours, and design concepts that embody the ocean side and an overall contemporary feel. Thus, it provided depersonalized guarantee that all villas are unique and individually recognizable while at the same time they are organic and in harmony with the rest of the 5,346 sq m site area.
A steamed room was added to the master bedrooms by the developer's request to have a private spa-like retreat in the home. This feature aligns with our focus on enhancing wellness and relaxation, blending modern luxury with functionality. We integrate this element to elevate the overall living experience by adding comfort and indulgence to daily life and a reflection of the project's commitment to thoughtful and innovative design.
The family area on the rooftop reflects a flexible approach to family living and encourages shared experiences. The informal gathering is encouraged in this design, along with promoting interaction and flexibility between interior and exterior spaces. Placing these spaces at the rooftop level also allows us to create a private retreat while offering expansive views of the surrounding views, in line with the modern idea of multi-trained, experience-driven living spaces. Such a harmonizing approach solves between evolving needs of lifestyle and is situated within the villa’s luxurious coastal scenery.
Environmental considerations and weather resilience played a crucial role in material selection and structural design. We chose durable, weather-resistant materials, like high-quality claddings and concrete, to withstand the coastal environment's exposure to moisture and salt. These materials ensure the longevity and structural integrity of the villas. Additionally, the design prioritizes natural ventilation and sun exposure, reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort, while the layout ensures stability against wind and coastal weather conditions.
Throughout the project timeline, key design evolution moments included refining the integration of the villas with different details including all the structural works and every single of furnitures. Early conceptual stages focused on layout flexibility, which evolved into the inclusion of luxury features. As construction progressed, material selection adapted to ensure weather resilience, with attention to coastal conditions. Constant collaboration with engineers allowed us to fine-tune structural elements to ensure both aesthetic appeal and long-term durability, ultimately shaping the final refined design.
With energy-efficient design and use of weather-resistant materials alongside harmonious interaction with the landscape, the project serves as a precedent for future development that is environmentally sensitive and provides better quality of life for residents. We believe that being on this path will affect other projects, espousing the need for eco-zestingly oriented design approaches to combine contemporary luxury with environmental responsibility, particularly in the coastal zones, where sustainability is the primary concern.
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