Safety and comfort in the structural design
The structures are much more than just a skeleton providing the framework for the architectural design; a carefully-planned structural concept offers countless advantages in terms of sustainability, durability and safety. For this residential complex, a detailed anti-seismic study was developed, making it possible to create buildings that are seismically safe in the event of earthquakes. Fire safety was also considered, applying all the necessary recommendations to the structures in order to guarantee a high level of fire resistance.
The basement level, where the garages and technical rooms are located, is built entirely in reinforced concrete. The presence of waterstop joints between foundations and walls and a cladding comprising a double layer of sheathing, ensures that rooms are sealed and waterproof. This prevents harmful water infiltration and, at the same time, increases the building’s durability.
The choice of materials also has a strong impact, especially in economic terms, as their quality as regards performance reduces maintenance costs over time.
The buildings consist of vertical load-bearing masonry elements and slender reinforced concrete floors. The load-bearing system selected also offers flexibility, allowing the interior spaces to be modified according to each client’s needs, for example by combining two housing units into one larger flat. The entire structural design was developed by Holzner & Bertagnolli Engineering, a company of international status, and special attention was paid to all those details that ensure that the dwellings have the highest possible comfort. For example, the stairs are acoustically isolated from the structure by systems that insulate the living spaces from footfall noise. Similarly, balconies and roof overhangs are thermally separated to prevent heat loss and ensure optimum energy performance.
Another key point in the development of the structural concept was the technical plant’s integrated design, right from the earliest stages. This ensures that plant does not interfere with structural components, so that interiors can be used to the full.
TALKING ABOUT CASCATA D'OTRO
Total project area of over 10,000 square metres
Approximately 8,000 square metres of private, condominium or exclusive-use green areas
Over 100 trees - Over 1,000 shrubs and herbaceous plants - Over 25 different plant species
8 buildings - About 70 housing units
About 70 private garages
A4 energy class
CO2 emissions less than 10 kg/sqm per year
