Red Apple Residential Building: A Unique Blend of Old and New

Integrating History and Modernity in a Residential Factory

The Red Apple Residential Building is characterized by its striking brick shell, which serves as a visual representation of the concept. The irregular site on which it stands adds dynamism and character to the structure. Perforations in the brick facade allow light chimneys to connect the interior and exterior spaces, creating a seamless integration of the building with its surroundings.

At the heart of the Red Apple Residential Building is a central staircase that acts as a light shaft, around which the dwellings are arranged. This unique design feature not only provides a functional purpose but also adds to the building's aesthetic appeal. The residential factory concept unifies the advantages of the past and present, delivering a sense of history, nostalgia, and memories that were previously lacking in the area.

The realization of the Red Apple Residential Building posed several technical challenges. Brick, the main material used in the construction, had been largely forgotten in Bulgaria. As a result, extensive research and reintroduction of brick construction techniques were necessary to ensure its suitability for the local seismic conditions. The building was designed to withstand a 9 by Richter earthquake, requiring a specific approach to its construction.

With a plan that resembles a nearly triangular shape, measuring 30 by 30 meters with two additional vertices on its longest side, the Red Apple Residential Building stands at a height of approximately 44 meters. Its unique design and use of brick as the primary material set it apart from other residential buildings in the area.

The Red Apple Residential Building, designed by AEDES STUDIO, reflects the need for maximum personal individualization while also contributing to a more homogeneous urban fabric. Each of its 61 apartments is distinct, preserving a sense of uniqueness for its residents. The building seamlessly interacts with its surroundings, becoming an integral part of the neighborhood. Every element of the design is subordinated to the whole, creating a continuous urban fabric that is firmly connected to the existing environment.

The Red Apple Residential Building project was part of a competition held in Sofia in April 2010. Construction took place between June 2011 and December 2012. The design team, led by AEDES STUDIO, included Plamen Bratkov, Rossitza Bratkova, Nedko Nedev, Boyan Belchev, Nikolay Chatalbashev, Mila Petrova, and Andrey Hodkevich.

The Red Apple Residential Building has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2015. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate exceptional expertise, innovation, technical characteristics, and artistic skill. The Red Apple Residential Building stands as a remarkable example of architectural excellence, evoking positive emotions, amazement, and wonder.