14
INSIGHTS
Key to the project’s success was the emphasis placed on early collaboration
solar control – a testament to the thoughtful problem-solving that underpins the project.
Designed for modern living Inside, the villa offers a carefully planned layout that refl ects the needs of contemporary living. The ground fl oor is divided into distinct yet interconnected zones. A hidden living room can be discreetly concealed with a fl oor-to-ceiling door, blending seamlessly into the wall when closed. A cutting-edge kitchen with a freestanding island anchors the open-plan living area, complemented by a dining space separated by a central courtyard. At the heart of the courtyard stands an imposing olive tree, its Mediterranean charm adding warmth and character. This focal point draws the eye and provides a sense of calm, anchoring the space in nature. Threshold-free sliding doors blur the line between interior and exterior, inviting light and greenery deep into the house.
The choice of materials was critical to achieving the villa’s harmonious atmosphere. Natural textures, subtle lighting, and minimalist fi nishes work together to create a seamless fl ow between spaces. Every detail, from wall coverings to fl ooring, was selected to enhance the overall aesthetic while ensuring practicality.
Collaboration & precision Villa Blunt highlights the importance of involving construction partners early in the design process, especially when using a modular and prefabricated approach. Collaboration between the design and manufacturing teams ensured that the villa’s ambitious vision was in alignment with WeberHaus’ modular system. This approach eliminated the need for reworking design elements and streamlined the construction process, demonstrating how architects and builders can work together to achieve outstanding results.
Sustainability at the core Sustainability was a cornerstone of Villa Blunt’s design. The house incorporates smart home technology, allowing for the effi cient
control of lighting, climate, and building services via a centralised system. Residents can manage these features through a smartphone, tablet, or embedded wall panels, making the home as convenient as it is energy-effi cient. The villa’s insulation values set a benchmark for energy effi ciency, with a wall U-value of 0.11 W/m2K, and a roof U-value of 0.15 W/m2K. These high-performance elements were integrated during the prefabrication process, underscoring the advantages of modular construction for achieving sustainable building standards.
Inspiring the future Villa Blunt offers valuable insights for architects and selfbuilders, with interest in timber frame construction growing. The project illustrates how prefabrication can unlock creative solutions without compromising on quality or sustainability. Key to the project’s success was the emphasis placed on early collaboration, ensuring the design was optimised for manufacturing and assembly from the start. This approach not only reduced costs but also maintained the integrity of the architectural vision. Architects can draw on these principles to design homes that balance ambition with practicality. Villa Blunt is more than just a house – it is a statement about the potential of prefabricated timber frame construction to redefi ne modern living. Its innovative design, sustainable features, and thoughtful execution challenge preconceived notions about modular building, opening the door to new possibilities in residential architecture. For myself and the WeberHaus team, the villa represents a bold step forward in reimagining homebuilding. By blending creativity with precision, and sustainability with style, the project demonstrates that prefabricated homes can be as inspiring as they are effi cient.
As architects continue to explore the potential of timber frame construction, Villa Blunt serves as a shining example of what’s possible when vision and expertise come together. This remarkable home sets a new standard for what modular construction can achieve, paving the way for a future where imaginative sustainable design becomes the norm.
Nick Blunt is exclusive design partner for WeberHaus in the UK
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF FEBRUARY 2025
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