Cometa

Cometa is a medium-density mixed-use residential development designed for an urban infill site, prioritizing permeability, local materials, and a pedestrian-centric public realm.

Overview

The project responds to a neglected urban site by introducing a legible, human-scaled residential block that activates the street edge while preserving the neighborhood's character. The typology combines ground-floor commercial and community space with four stories of apartments above. The master plan is organized around a central courtyard, which serves as a shared amenity space and a buffer between the private units and the public sidewalk.

Architectural Concept

The architecture is defined by a rhythmic facade that balances solidity and transparency. The lower levels use a textured brick that ties into the existing urban fabric, while the upper levels employ a timber-clad system that adds warmth and visual interest. The units are arranged in a staggered layout, which creates a varied roofline and allows each apartment a unique relationship to the courtyard.

The public realm is an extension of the architecture, with wide sidewalks and a small plaza at the corner. The design removes the traditional barrier between the building and the street, replacing it with a series of shopfronts and cafes that invite pedestrian engagement. A pedestrian path also cuts through the site, connecting two side streets and improving permeability.

Urban Integration

Cometa is designed to be a good neighbor. The building height is stepped down at the site boundaries so that it does not overwhelm the adjacent low-rise buildings. The chamfered corner creates a legible landmark and opens up sightlines at the intersection.

The ground floor is a mix of retail, cafe, and a small community room, which provides a steady stream of eyes on the street and supports the local economy. The units above are arranged so that the most active rooms face the street, creating a lively streetscape. The courtyard is a semi-private space that is accessible from the building but screened from the public, providing a safe and usable amenity for residents.

Sustainability

The design is grounded in passive principles. The buildings are oriented to maximize northern light and minimize heat gain in the summer through a deep overhang on the southern facade. The thermal envelope is high-performance, with triple glazing and a ventilated timber rainscreen that helps regulate the building's temperature.

The courtyard is a biodiverse urban garden, with native planting and rainwater harvesting for irrigation. The project also includes a small biomass heating plant, which reduces the buildings' carbon footprint.

Conclusion