Panelak
The process of sustainable adaptation. Working with a typified slab block floorplan from the 60´s. Definedness of the relationships in the family and the scale of intimacy change through generations. The original space misses lightness. It is too rigid, too structured, too defined.
The disposition is defined by the skeleton-panel 3D frame, spaced 3,9x3,9m centre to centre, which strictly defines the rooms. Each closed and separated visually and acoustically. We try to grasp the 3D frame as the bearer of the basic boundary of the space, not as an untouchable element strictly defining individual spaces. We are disrupting the scheme with simple openings. We let in light and create overviews and depth where they never were.
We consider it extremely important to speak out about living in slab blocks. About current situation on the real estate market, enormous financial demands for acquiring real estate and young families whose way of life is not compatible with the spaces offered by these apartments. It is important for us to show that it is not necessary to condemn these apartments and that we can adapt them for current needs, in order to preserve them.
In this case, we tried to find a manual that works with the space, but also takes finances into account.
Opening up the space created overviews and depth by axially arranging openings (all of them dimensioned so that it is not necessary to use steel lintels and frames), directly connecting the kitchen and the day part, creating full-feature space for socialisation, decreasing number of doors (to wind lobby, kitchen, corridor, bathroom), and allowing daylight into the internal corridor tract via openings in the habitable rooms, whilst removing period decorative elements.
All of these interventions contribute to the creation of full-fledged, airy, inspiring and open space, thus helping to find an affordable housing solution for young people.
