Gonzalez & Jacobson Architecture and its architects in Sotogrande participates in a design contest for a residential complex in Torreguadiaro, San Roque, Cadiz.

A project contest submission encompasses numerous topics to address and develop. To provide insight into its content, we’ll present part of its theme in this #1 (i) and subsequent posts.

This large-scale architectural project has been a significant challenge, proposing ideas and sustainable architectural design in Sotogrande for a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Gonzalez & Jacobson’s architectural firm and its architects in Sotogrande establishes several objectives and ideas as guiding principles for this proposal. The development will include detached, semi-detached, and terraced houses, an eco-hotel and spa complex, and areas for tertiary use.

The land subject to this contest is located in the Torreguadiaro neighbourhood, San Roque municipality, Cadiz, in a prime location near Sotogrande. It is an area of significant landscape value and low density, with excellent transport links and facilities.

When designing the buildings on the site, factors such as the land’s characteristics and responsible use, building parameters, light impact, local climate, and sustainability criteria are considered. These criteria are based on four pillars that guide the project from this perspective.

KNOW-HOW: The technical expertise and experience of the team ensure they can undertake any energy and environmental proposal with full assurance, thanks to having the best team.

KNOW TO DEMONSTRATE: To provide an energy rating for a building. Mastery of leading simulation software (EnergyPlus, TRNSYS, or eQuest) allows for thoroughly documenting the proposal’s achievements and verifying the dynamic behaviour of construction solutions, HVAC (ventilation, heating and air conditioning )systems, and integrated renewable energies to optimise their design.

ABILITY TO SHOW: To demonstrate our designs, we propose creating a space called ECO-LAB, where all technologies can be applied, resulting in a zero-emission building.

COST CONTROL: Environmental measures will be chosen to combine ecological and economic objectives. A matrix of applications will be proposed and agreed upon with the property owners, along with the option for clients to select from a range of “à la carte” choices.

For the residential complex design concept, Gonzalez & Jacobson architects in Sotogrande proposes:

BIOCLIMATIC DESIGN: Maximise and optimise the dwelling’s functionality across seasons (winter-summer).

SELF-SUFFICIENT DESIGN: A self-sufficient building capable of producing its energy and resources, with zero or near-zero consumption.

CONSTRUCTION WITH RENEWABLE OR BIODEGRADABLE RESOURCES: Material and construction system selection is key to building sustainability, prioritising ecology, health, and sustainability whilst minimising negative environmental impact and waste.

COMBINED PROPOSAL: PASSIVE + ACTIVE HOUSE (HYBRID):

A combination of both is proposed, being:

PASSIVE HOUSE/DESIGN: An efficient building that maximally reduces energy demand through global design strategies, cutting energy consumption by 90% compared to a standard house.

ACTIVE HOUSE/DESIGN: Capable of producing energy.

The list of elements in an architectural project for competition is extensive. Developing and presenting them with professionalism, rationality, wisdom, and creativity is crucial to attract property developers’ interest, aiming for consideration and potential project award.

Gonzalez & Jacobson Architecture and its architects in Sotogrande regularly participates in large-scale architectural project contests in Sotogrande. Their extensive architectural experience enables them to successfully manage, execute, and supervise such projects.