Projects developed by ATELIER70 aim to place the client and the end user at the center of attention, striving to achieve a perfect balance between art and science, architecture and technical-scientific aspects, as well as economy and ecology. For ATELIER70, ecology and sustainable development must be viewed from a global perspective, combining the use of ecological, durable, and regionally sourced construction materials with the implementation of cutting-edge technologies in technical installations. Therefore, an in-depth analysis of the client’s wishes and expectations, along with the development and proposal of innovative and sustainable solutions, is of primary importance.
All architectural services are carried out in compliance with budgetary and organizational requirements, with particular attention paid to operating costs, especially energy and resource consumption, environmental protection, and innovative yet proven technologies.
Theoretical Reflections on Housing
Housing is characterized by a strong regional influence, mainly based on traditions and customs developed over the years. Even in Luxembourg, despite its relatively small size, differences can be observed between the north and south, east and west, even if they sometimes only concern building regulations that vary from one municipality to another. For example, in the north, housing is characterized by “rural” architecture, while in the south of the country, housing is dominated by “working-class” architecture. In general, housing construction in Luxembourg is characterized by rather solid constructions, generous living spaces, and a very high standard of execution.
Residential architecture is the field of architecture that has the most direct contact and impact on each of us. Everyone lives somewhere, whether in a studio, an apartment, a townhouse, or a villa.
The exterior appearance of all these buildings shapes and influences our direct environment, while the interior provides residents with a structure that may be more or less adaptable. In any case, the interior of each home is directly personalized by its occupants through furniture, colors, lighting, and other elements.
The exterior appearance, however, is subject to regulations. In collective residential buildings, the influence of individual residents on the external appearance is generally very limited. The only exception is single-family homes, which offer their occupants greater possibilities to express their personal preferences externally.
For a large number of Luxembourgers, the ideal has always been — and still is — to own a detached house on a large plot of land with an unobstructed view. However, this objective is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve for the majority of citizens due to the shortage of building land, the very high price of land, territorial planning regulations, and the cost of construction itself.
The major challenge for architects will therefore be to present innovative, economical, and ecological solutions while responding to residents’ wishes and respecting regional traditions and customs. Architecture will also need to address the growing desire of residents for greater individuality and flexibility in modifying apartment layouts when needed. In other words, architecture must encourage residents to participate more actively in the design of their direct environment.
