The Fifth Element: A Harmonious Blend of Design and Nature

Materia 174's Award-Winning Residence Fuses Privacy, Comfort, and Aesthetics

Designed by Materia 174, "The Fifth Element" is a modern residence that seamlessly blends privacy, comfort, and aesthetics. This unique architectural masterpiece, located on the edge of an urban village, offers a tranquil retreat, connecting its inhabitants with nature while ensuring maximum privacy. The design, which won the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2021, is a testament to the innovative approach of Materia 174.

The house, designed for an adult married couple, is a perfect blend of form and function. It consists of five parallel volumes, each varying in level and height but identical in design. The stone facades shield the house from prying eyes, while the glass walls open it up to the forest, filling the space with light and air. The living spaces have free access to the lawn, pool, and terrace, creating a fluid indoor-outdoor living experience. The design is a tribute to the elements of earth, water, fire, air, and the quintessence of all elements - the atmosphere.

The Fifth Element is not just a design marvel but also a testament to sustainable living. The house is designed to maximize comfort and minimize the use of resources. All enclosing structures employ conservation technologies, and even glasses and blinds are examined for heat loss and solar factor. The pool water is fully heated by recovered energy from the dehumidifier and the server room, showcasing the designer's commitment to environmental sustainability.

The design of the house is a result of meticulous planning and execution. The plot area is 10,000 m2, with a basement area of 355 m2 and a ground floor area of 840 m2, including a 140 m2 garage. There is also a separate building for guards and utilities, measuring 80 m2. The design team, led by Mykhailo Ilchenko, has left no stone unturned to ensure that the house meets the highest standards of design and functionality.

The Fifth Element is more than just a house; it's an experience. The designer notes that the sensory perception of space - through light, color, tactility, sensations, experiences - is what truly matters. The house, with its convertible qualities of space and natural light, offers a personalized, individual approach to living. The full-size windows facing the forest, the water installation of the terrace, and the two-storied tower of the living room all contribute to creating a unique living experience.

The design of the Fifth Element is a testament to Materia 174's innovative approach to architecture. The design, which commenced in March 2018 and was completed in May 2020, is a perfect blend of modern design and Ukrainian architecture. The design has been recognized for its creativity and innovation, winning the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2021.

In conclusion, The Fifth Element is a perfect example of how design can enhance the quality of life. It showcases how a house can be more than just a living space - it can be a sanctuary that connects its inhabitants with nature, offers maximum privacy, and provides a unique living experience. The design is a testament to Materia 174's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Materia 174 Architecture Office
Image Credits: All Images Photographer Sergey Savchenko, 2020
Project Team Members: Mykhailo Ilchenko Aleona Pryadko Anna Hryb Kyra Tymchenko Victoriia Shevchenko Aleksandr Dityatev Olga Kovalyova
Project Name: The Fifth Element
Project Client: Materia 174 Architecture Office


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