Style and the city with Tsvetan Petrov

We invited you to talk to the leading architects - our partners, whose projects create the new urban relief and many of them are part of the prestigious portfolio of Unique Estates. Here are their answers to important questions about the trends in modern city life, new values and new timelessness.

Tsvetan Petrov

Ivo Petrov - Architects

ip-arch.com

How are the new projects in Sofia - residential buildings and complexes - rethinking the urban environment?

In the last year (in the demic situation) there is a trend of increased demand for residential properties. This has led us, the architects, to rethink design in a position of safer, more cozy and comfortable living environment. The new urban complexes, on the one hand, are an example of the restoration and renewal of abandoned urban areas. On the other hand, in housing projects located in newly developed urban areas - at the foot of Vitosha, for example, the approach is similar - with the attitude to the environment, but in a different visual - low development, giving enough air, space and freedom to maintain internal connections to the mountain.

Which current changes in the requirements for architecture, due to various factors, including the pandemic, most strongly influence the new concepts?

The new reality changed the status quo and accelerated processes to which we had to adapt quickly. New requirements for buildings with more reliability and a healthy environment, maximum comfort, alternatives for socialization and inspiration such as shared open spaces and green areas for connection with nature have come to the fore. Our GORA project is a very good example of these changes - a combination of a gated residential complex, oriented towards the mountain, with a high-tech office building (Home & Office). It is certified LEED platinum certified according to the requirements for sustainable construction due to the use of the highest class technologies, environmentally friendly materials and sustainable solutions. Residential Park Sofia, a project of the Lindner Group in Bulgaria, also perfectly combines a maintained and safe living environment, workplace comfort and natural closeness to nature. He realizes the vision of a "city within a city" - a place where people can live, rest, play sports and work, at the foot of Vitosha, just a step away from the city.

How do the projects combine the current requirements of different generations - the 50-60-year-olds, the millennials, the young Generation X?

The key here is the combination of comfort, adaptability and versatility. We achieved such an effect in Simeonovo Alleys, a project we developed together with the interior studio VIArchitects. The construction of the houses is cleaned as much as possible of internal elements and allows free re-planning of the spaces by the owners - possibility for connection or complete division. Unlike other housing projects and given the specifics of transport infrastructure in the area, the underground level also provides functionality, and according to the needs of households there can be arranged a gym, office or even a small spa area with private bathroom and toilet, garage for two cars with enough space for other light motor vehicles or bicycles. The common areas in the complex are solved with rich landscaping and quality flooring. Each house has an individual spacious yard, clearly separated and hidden from the common outdoor space to provide privacy.

Can you imagine these new projects in 10, 20, 30 years? What will ensure their longevity over time and the freshness of the idea of luxury realized in them?

We believe in smart design & smart planning, and we are always looking for the development of objects over time and the perception of the people who will live there. Our sites are inspired by our own desire to create a better, sustainable and aesthetic environment that inspires, provides security and tranquility, but also changes the city and its living conditions. I believe that together, with experience and knowledge, we are getting closer to thatStyle and the city global view тalks