KAMI

After receiving a contract from the developer MONO, we have devised a landscape architecture design for a new residential area Kami located in the historical centre of the city. Natural materials used in finishing, floor-to-ceiling glazing and landscape design with a focus on naturalness create an atmosphere of a secluded garden, a quiet corner of nature in a big city.

When looking into the architecture developed by our colleagues from Tsimailo Lyashenko and Partners, one peculiarity grabbed our attention – the load-bearing columns are removed from the interior, are placed on the façade, and become the main element of the façade’s relief. This solution is what makes these buildings stand apart from the majority of modern structures in which the shell of the façade hides the structural parts. Such a structural layout reminded us of ancient temples and of their characteristic post-and-lintel system. Inspired by this approach, we decided to make it the centre of our landscape architecture concept: we used the main principles of classic architecture, but reduced it to minimalism and stripped away all the decorations. This way we managed to highlight the architecture as the authors planned it and achieve a symbiosis with the environment.

We created a space with natural landscape reflecting the very nature of belonging to the ancient world. We used planting of greyish-green and ancient shapes, but saved the character of ancient elements without the unnecessary gloss. Street furniture is neat and reminds of the parts making up an architectural order. The landscape contoured with the use of stones create the feel of a Southern landscape, springs and water basins draw references to traditional elements of an ancient house. Trees and bushes resemble an olive so that the vegetation would have an ancient feel, but would fit our geographic area. Natural materials and textures enhance the effect.

The design features accent lighting, which highlights key elements. The feature creates an ambient that theatrical or museum light would produce and accentuates the street furniture. Total illumination is bare minimum and creates quiet and comfortable areas in contrast with brightly lit urban space.