Dema Green Heights
Client
Dema Hope
Type
Commercial
Year
2023
Size
3300 SQM.
Floors
2B + G + 4 + Terrace (G+4 front elevation / G+7 back elevation)
Apartments
-
Location
Hills of Megenagna, Addis Ababa.
Services
Swimming pool, gym, spa, restaurant, laundry, minimarket, and a communal terrace program.
Status
Idea
The objective of this project is to design a high-class residential development in the Hills of Megenagna that functions as an iconic urban landmark.
Project Overview
Client Background
Zohan Trading PLC, a leading architectural and interior design firm specializing in high-performing, iconic built environments, collaborated with Dema Hope Real Estate. As a progressive real estate developer specializing in premium spaces, the client’s vision for this project is to redefine modern living through innovative design, sustainability, and high-end facilities tailored to a dynamic market.
Objective
The objective of this project is to design a high-class residential development in the Hills of Megenagna that functions as an iconic urban landmark. The design must masterfully navigate the site's sloped terrain, resulting in an elevation profile of G+4 at the front and G+7 at the back. The project integrates luxury residential units with "low car traffic magnet" amenities, such as a swimming pool and restaurant, to maximize land value and provide an elite living environment for high-income residents.
Scope
Zohan Trading PLC will deliver a full architectural and interior design package for Dema Green Heights, covering concept, schematic, and detailed design through execution. The scope includes:
Climate-Responsive Design: Utilizing specific site orientation to mitigate harsh southwest sun exposure.
Architectural Innovation: Designing a facade featuring generous balconies with integrated greenery and optimized openings for natural lighting.
Functional Programming: Developing 4 apartments per floor (5-bedroom units) and coordinating a semi-basement for utilities to avoid extensive shoring.
Infrastructure Coordination: Ensuring the provision of 50 parking spaces, 24 storage rooms, and a communal terrace while providing full construction support to maintain design intent.
Design Approach and Execution
Concept and Vision
Design Philosophy: The project was envisioned as a high-class residential sanctuary that harmonizes luxury living with the unique topography of the Hills of Megenagna.
Key Features: The design prioritizes greenery-filled balconies, optimized natural lighting, and a strategic dual elevation profile (G+4 front/G+7 back) to maximize the sloped site.
Inspirations: Modern "urban oasis" architecture that integrates biophilic elements with high-performing, iconic structural forms.
Execution
Phase 1: Urban Analysis and Site Planning
Conducted topographic studies to navigate the slope, resulting in a design that respects the 15-meter height restriction while maximizing floor count at the rear.
Optimized the 50-meter frontage along the 15-meter road to enhance visibility and ease of access.
Analyzed sun paths to position the building for minimal Southwest (SW) harsh sun exposure.
Phase 2: Architectural Design and Space Planning
Developed a floor-plate program consisting of 4 premium apartments per floor, specifically 5-bedroom units.
Designed a signature facade with generous balconies and integrated greenery to serve as natural cooling and privacy buffers.
Allocated dedicated spaces for 50 cars in Basement 2 and 24 storage rooms to ensure functional luxury.
Phase 3: Sustainable Solutions and Site Strategy
Utilized a semi-basement for utility and common spaces to minimize excavation and avoid the need for complex shoring.
Implemented a "low car traffic magnet" strategy for the ground floor, housing elite amenities like the swimming pool, spa, and restaurant to maintain a peaceful residential environment.
Integrated large openings throughout the facade to maximize natural daylighting and reduce energy dependency.
Phase 4: Collaboration and Amenities
Coordinated the design of the communal terrace program, providing a high-end social space for residents.
Ensured seamless integration of mixed-use components, including a minimarket, laundry, and gym, within the residential framework.
Developed a construction support plan to maintain the design intent of the lush, tiered balcony system through to execution.
Results and Acknowledgments
Outcome
Business-Ready Spaces: The project offers versatile Apartment layouts tailored to living standard ranging from one bedroom unit to 5 bedroom unit.
Eco-Friendly Excellence: expected to achieved LEED Gold Certification, setting a benchmark for green apartment architecture.
Tenant Delight: High occupancy rates and glowing feedback on the building’s design and amenities.
Project Design Office
Zohan Trading PLC
Project shots
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