Private Residential Residence in Zapovednik Settlement
Sverdlovsk Region, Russia
Year: 2016
Context
The project is a private single-family residence located in the suburban settlement of Zapovednik in the Sverdlovsk Region.
The house was conceived as a year-round residence designed to accommodate a wide range of daily functions internally, minimizing the need for frequent travel to the city. The program reflects a self-sufficient lifestyle embedded within a natural forest environment.
The plot, partially free of trees in its northern section, is surrounded by dense pine forest. Due to limited natural sunlight conditions typical for the region, daylight optimization became a central architectural theme.
Design Approach
The building was positioned in the northern part of the plot, opening its primary glazing toward the southern exposure to maximize solar gain and natural illumination.
Given the dense surrounding forest and reduced daylight levels, a continuous ribbon glazing system was introduced beneath the roofline on the second floor. This strategy allows additional natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces, including the double-height central hall.
The architectural concept integrates:
- A timber-based structural system
- Expansive glazing toward the south
- Light-enhancing ribbon windows
- A comprehensive internal functional program
- Spatial zoning for both private and communal activities
Spatial OrganizationFirst Floor
- Access to spa complex including:
- Two changing rooms (male and female) with individual showers
- Traditional Russian sauna
- Steam room with wood-fired stove
Second Floor
- Double-height living hall
The spatial hierarchy separates guest areas from private family spaces while maintaining strong visual continuity through the central double-height volume.
Structural System
- Primary structural system: glued profiled timber
- Structural frame: glued laminated timber
- Roof structure: timber elements
- Light-transmitting bay windows integrated into the façade
- Independent, detached timber structural element adjacent to the main building
- Continuous ribbon glazing at the second floor
The timber structural system defines both the architectural identity and the structural integrity of the residence.
Façades and Building Envelope
- Exterior walls: 250 mm glued profiled timber
- Roof insulation: 600 mm wood fiber insulation
The envelope was designed to provide high thermal performance suited to the harsh continental climate of the region while maintaining material consistency and natural breathability.
Engineering Systems and Autonomy
The house is equipped with an integrated engineering system designed for year-round comfort:
- Gas boiler heating system
- Hydronic underfloor heating
- Water supply with recirculation
- Mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation with integrated humidification
The engineering infrastructure supports the spa complex and large indoor volumes while ensuring energy efficiency and stable indoor climate conditions.