Royal River: A Contemporary Residential Building in Plovdiv

Integrating Innovation, Technology, and Sustainability

Royal River, designed by Starh - Svetoslav Stanislavov, stands out as a contemporary residential building in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. With its 75-meter height and 23 floors above ground, it is the second tallest building in the city. The project's location on the green axis connecting the Rowing Canal and Bunardzhika Hill makes it a definite landmark in the surroundings.

The design of Royal River prioritizes simplicity, sophistication, and innovation. The building incorporates several integrated technologies that make it a modern residential space. These include a sustainable HVAC system, a waste collection system, high-speed elevators, maximized glazing for each apartment, and a tight structure core with compact emergency interlocking staircases to maximize the usage of floor area.

Design-wise, Royal River utilizes high-class cladding and glazing systems that ensure longevity and low maintenance over time. The facade design is particularly noteworthy, with the use of composite aluminum panels that allow for freeform shapes and easy installation methods. The building's unique properties and strengths lie in its integration of technology, sustainability, and contemporary design elements.

One of the key features of Royal River is its interaction with the surrounding landscape. The minimal building footprint allows for the creation of a vast green park around the building, providing a serene and natural environment for the residents. The landscape design also includes several hills, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also act as visual and noise barriers, offering privacy from the busy boulevard.

The design phase of Royal River started in 2021, and the project was realized in the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. The design team, led by Svetoslav Stanislavov, included Dimitar Katsarov, Iva Kostova, Radostina Petkova, Petar Nikolov, Hristo Dushev, Borislav Stanchev, Zhenia Atanasova, Georgi Pasev, Ivan Kovachev, Vladimir Kavaev, Debora Dimitrova, Sanya Kovacheva, Desislava Georgieva, Georgi Beshirov, and Mirela Teofanova.

Royal River has received recognition for its design excellence. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2022 in the category of Architecture, Building, and Structure Design. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Royal River's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world have earned it this accolade.

With its contemporary design, innovative technologies, and commitment to sustainability, Royal River stands as a testament to the possibilities of modern residential architecture. It not only provides a comfortable and luxurious living space but also contributes to the overall urban fabric of Plovdiv.