Architectural Design - Arxhenda Lipovica

Selected Projects

A Journey of Senses

A Journey of Senses is a project which functions as a gateway to the soul-stirring symphony of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. Nestled amidst the historic cityscape of Porto, Portugal, this museum invites you on an immersive exploration of the human experience, where every corner tells a story, and every sensation ignites the imagination.

A Journey of Senses

“A Journey of Senses” transcends traditional architectural paradigms by inviting visitors on a multisensory exploration of space and memory. Inspired by the profound interplay between architecture and the human senses, the project reimagines the museum experience as a sensorial voyage through time and place. As Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa aptly noted, architecture serves as a conduit for sensory experiences, weaving together the fabric of our lived environment through sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.

Defining Elements

Base Elements

At the heart of “A Journey of Senses” lie four elemental pillars: city movements, wine, the river, and the senses. These foundational elements converge to shape an immersive narrative that unfolds within the museum’s walls, inviting visitors to embark on a transformative journey of discovery and connection.

Conceptual Development

Nestled within the vibrant cityscape of Porto, Portugal, the Museum of Wine stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between culture, nature, and architectural innovation. Conceived as a bridge between the bustling urban milieu and the serene majesty of the Douro River, the museum embodies a harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity. By embracing the sensory richness of its surroundings, the project seeks to redefine the role of the museum within the fabric of the city, forging deep connections between past, present, and future.

Stratification

The stratified design of the museum reflects the dynamic interplay between movement and stability, fluidity and solidity. Drawing inspiration from the layered history of Porto, the building’s elevation serves as a canvas for the city’s ever-changing rhythms, while anchoring its essence in the timeless flow of the river. Each architectural element, from the vertical spire to the labyrinthine pathways, is imbued with a sense of narrative depth, inviting visitors to explore the museum’s rich tapestry of experiences.

Masterplan

The masterplan of “A Journey of Senses” unfolds like a symphony, with each phase carefully orchestrated to evoke a specific sensory response. From the moment visitors step through the museum’s doors, they are enveloped in a sensory tapestry that unfolds in layers of sight, sound, and texture. As they traverse the museum’s corridors and chambers, they are guided by the rhythmic pulse of the city and the gentle embrace of the river, their senses awakened to the beauty and complexity of their surroundings.

“A Journey of Senses” represents a bold exploration of the transformative power of architecture to engage, inspire, and elevate the human spirit. By embracing the full spectrum of sensory experience, the museum transcends traditional notions of space and time, inviting visitors to embark on a voyage of self-discovery and connection. As they navigate the labyrinthine pathways of the museum, they are reminded of the profound interdependence between humanity and the natural world, and the enduring legacy of sensory perception in shaping our shared experience of the built environment.

From Weak Form Towards Sustainability

“From Weak Form Towards Sustainability” embodies a vision of architectural transformation in Kosovo. This project champions sustainable design principles while addressing societal needs and enhancing quality of life. Check out this journey of innovation, where every structure represents a step towards a greener, more resilient future.

This Project was also nominated for the

“Young Talent Architecture Award”

From Weak Form Towards Sustainability

The project “Hybridia – From Weak Form towards Hedonistic Sustainability” addresses the pressing need for sustainable architectural design in Kosovo. With an abundance of buildings being constructed without consideration for their environmental impact or societal needs, there’s a critical need for qualitative architectural interventions. This project aims to strike a balance between societal needs, architectural quality, and sustainability. Hybridia represents a paradigm shift in architectural philosophy, transitioning buildings from conventional structures to sustainable, eco-conscious designs. By integrating new technologies, materials, and methodologies, the project focuses on enhancing the quality of life, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability of its inhabitants. The design approach emphasizes ecosystem integrity and biodiversity, striving to create a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

Program

The project offers a diverse range of functions to cater to the needs of residents within the area. In addition to residential spaces, the complex includes facilities such as banks, kindergartens, family healthcare clinics, shopping centers, gyms, restaurants, greenhouses, gastronomy venues, boutiques, and parking. These functions are strategically integrated within the complex to ensure convenience for residents while preserving their privacy.

Architectural Design

This project represents a mixed use complexity in a neighborhood which at the moment consists small individual old houses. And due to the development these residents have to give up their home. So to minimize the impact this project intends to keep the feeling of the home alive even after building. At the heart of the architectural design is “Plato,” a conceptual division separating public and private areas within the complex. Above Plato, the building’s form evolves following the urban sprawl, with terraced structures emerging from the multiplication of modular units. The design incorporates seven main module typologies, each featuring its own garden to facilitate residents’ cultivation of produce. The integration of gardens preserves residents’ lifestyles while promoting environmental sustainability.

Modularity serves as the cornerstone of Hybridia’s design philosophy, enabling the creation of adaptable, multifunctional spaces. The project employs a modular approach that breaks down larger architectural components into smaller, interchangeable modules. These modules, characterized by standardized dimensions and structural integrity, facilitate rapid assembly and customization, allowing for flexible configurations tailored to varying spatial requirements and user preferences. Moreover, the modularity of Hybridia extends beyond physical structures to encompass digital systems and infrastructural networks, fostering dynamic interactions between built environments and inhabitants.

The modular design of Hybridia not only enhances construction efficiency but also promotes sustainability by minimizing material waste and optimizing resource utilization. Furthermore, the modular framework offers scalability, enabling incremental expansion and adaptation in response to evolving needs and technological advancements. Through its innovative use of modularity, Hybridia embodies a forward-thinking approach to architectural design that prioritizes resilience, efficiency, and user-centricity.

Hybridia represents a groundbreaking endeavor to redefine architectural standards in Kosovo by prioritizing sustainability, societal well-being, and architectural excellence. By integrating principles of modularity, the project demonstrates a commitment to innovation and adaptability, fostering a built environment that is responsive to the needs of both present and future generations. As a beacon of progressive design, Hybridia exemplifies the transformative potential of architecture to shape a more equitable, resilient, and harmonious society.

Interested in more information about this project?

Blackwood Villa

With its serene embrace, Blackwood Villa invites its residents to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of nature. Surrounded by lush woodlands, this architectural gem offers a unique opportunity to experience living amidst the natural world.

Blackwood Villa

Blackwood Villa is designed in a captivating sanctuary nestled amidst the pristine beauty of Stanishor, Kosovo.

Perched gracefully upon the slopes of the mountains, this stunning villa harmonizes with its natural surroundings, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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At the heart of the design philosophy lies a deep reverence for the majestic mountain ranges that cradle our villa. Inspired by the rugged beauty of our surroundings, our architectural concept echoes the contours of the mountains, mirroring their graceful slopes and undulating peaks.

Embracing the essence of mountain living, our villa harmonizes with its environment, seamlessly integrating elements that pay homage to nature’s grandeur. Sloping roofs, reminiscent of snow-capped peaks, add a touch of alpine charm and ensure resilience against wintry weather.

Elevated gracefully on pillars, the designed villa harmonizes effortlessly with its sloping terrain, offering a unique vantage point that invites you to connect with the lush landscape. A spacious balcony extends from the villa, serving as a tranquil bridge between indoor comfort and the vibrant outdoor garden.

Positioned strategically at the entrance, our villa offers seamless accessibility to the neighborhood road nestled within the forest, ensuring both convenience and privacy. The design ethos revolves around a symbiotic relationship with nature, prioritizing the preservation of existing trees. Guided by this principle, the villa’s location was meticulously chosen to harmonize with the natural landscape, allowing the lush foliage to dictate its placement.

Embracing this approach, the main garden is thoughtfully situated to one side, preserving the untouched beauty of the surrounding trees while seamlessly integrating the villa into its verdant setting.

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In every corner of Blackwood Villa, the essence of tranquility and harmony prevails, inviting residents to immerse themselves in the unspoiled beauty of their surroundings. As the sun sets over the mountains, casting a golden glow upon the landscape, the villa stands as a testament to the seamless blend of modern luxury and natural serenity.

Whether enjoying the warmth of the hearth indoors or savoring the crisp mountain air from the expansive balcony, residents are enveloped in a sense of peace and connection with the land. Blackwood Villa is not merely a home—it is a sanctuary where moments of quiet reflection and boundless adventure await, beckoning all who enter to embrace the timeless allure of mountain living.

Interested in more information about this project?

Wisdom Tree – Earth School

“Senegal School Project” stands as a beacon of hope and education in the heart of Senegal, offering a transformative space where young minds flourish. Nestled amidst the vibrant culture and rich landscapes of Senegal, this project is a testament to community empowerment and sustainable development.

Wisdom Tree – Earth School

Wisdom Tree – Earth School, is a visionary project born from the collective wisdom and resilience of the Senegalese community. In a region where educational resources are scarce and infrastructure is limited, the need for innovative solutions is paramount.

This project was developed for the competition of Earth School, and it was designed based on the belief that every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.

Ground Floor

At the heart of Wisdom Tree – Earth School lies a deep reverence for nature and community. Drawing inspiration from the towering trees that dot the landscape, this design embraces the power of unity and growth. Just as the roots of a tree anchor it firmly to the earth, this project roots itself in the community, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among its inhabitants.

Central to the design philosophy is the preservation of the natural environment. Rather than imposing upon the land, it is sought to integrate our school seamlessly into the existing landscape, weaving a tapestry of indoor and outdoor spaces that harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. The trees, revered as symbols of resilience and renewal, serve as both shade providers and sources of inspiration for the students who will learn and grow beneath their branches.

In crafting this school, the design was turned to local materials and traditional building techniques, honoring the rich heritage of Senegal while promoting sustainability and self-sufficiency.

Utilizing a Mud Brick wall technique and implementing a water collecting system, not only reduced the environmental footprint but also empowered the community to harness the resources readily available to them.

"The future of a community depends on the success of its youth."

Marian Wright Edelman

Wisdom Tree – Earth School is more than just a building;

It is a beacon of hope and possibility, a testament to the transformative power of education and community. As the students of Senegal embark on their journey of learning and discovery within these walls, may they be inspired to reach for the stars and nurture the seeds of change for generations to come.