Village Golem
Year: 2019
Category: Residential Housing
Country/ City: Albania, Golem
Land area under development: 7167.50 m2
Land area occupied by the structure: 2224 m2
Total built-up area above ground: 5400 m2
Maximum building height: 7.6 m
Maximum number of floors: 3
Status: In progress
Project Concept
Village Golem is planned as a compact, walkable neighborhood of low-rise homes organized along a central green spine. The layout prioritizes calm streets, generous setbacks, and plenty of planting, creating a quiet residential atmosphere minutes from the coast. Architecture is contemporary and warm: clear volumes, deep terraces, large windows, and a palette of stone, plaster, and wood accents. Night lighting is designed to be subtle, highlighting entries and pedestrian paths while preserving the character of the landscape without overwhelming the ambient with harsh lights.
Masterplan & Urban Layout
• Central axis: a tree-lined pedestrian street that connects the entrance square with pocket gardens and shared sitting areas.
• Clusters of villas: paired and single units form small courts, improving privacy while keeping strong neighborhood ties.
• Edges: green buffers with layered planting act as soft boundaries and help with rainwater infiltration.
Homes & Architecture
• Typologies: two-storey residences with flexible living areas on ground level and bedrooms above.
• Terraces & balconies: orientated to capture light and frame views while providing shading.
• Material palette: light render, textured stone, and warm wood/metal details for a timeless, coastal look.
• Glazing strategy: large openings for daylight; recessed frames and overhangs to control summer sun.
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Landscape & Public Realm
• Pocket parks: benches, low shrubs, and shade trees create places to meet and play.
• Lighting: pedestrian-scale fixtures for comfort and safety; accent lighting on façades and entries.
• Planting: drought-tolerant species suited to the Adriatic climate.
Access & Mobility
• Calm traffic: narrow carriageways and raised crossings to keep speeds low.
• Parking: on-plot and tucked along access lanes to free the center for people.
• Service & emergency: clear loop for maintenance and emergency access without cutting through the green spine.
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Sustainability Moves
• Compact two-storey massing reduces footprint and heat loss.
• High-performance envelope with shading devices.
• Native planting to reduce irrigation demand.
• Potential for rainwater collection and rooftop solar readiness.