The Boulevarde: A Revolutionary House Designed for Sustainable Living

Designer: Chris Knierim

Fully automated yet designed for living, The Boulevarde embodies sustainability in every aspect of its construction. From the plant-rich Green roof to the world's first hydronic heating for the swimming pool, this house harmonizes with its environment, collecting rainwater for irrigation and using external automatic window shades to moderate interior temperatures. The five-bedroom home is a distinctly modern design, letting in light and energy from the outside world to create a seamless sanctuary.

The Boulevarde is completely bespoke, with every element serving a purpose. From the interlinked hydronic heating for the pool and underfloor to the automation of irrigation, the construction utilizes cantilevered elements balanced with artistic features to create a seamless effect. Natural light plays a crucial role in the design, uniting sustainability and accessibility, such as the below-ground basement lit by strategic glass panels.

The land size of the property is 1011m2, with 424m2 of internal living space. The technological advancements incorporated in the construction of this house are extraordinary. LED light technology and strategically placed windows create a naturally light-filled environment. The automation technology allows for total management of all aspects of the house, from light and blind control to irrigation, adapting to local weather conditions and activating only when required. Solar heat and electricity technology, along with the world's first hydronic pool heating, further enhance the sustainability of The Boulevarde.

Where the average home is passive, The Boulevarde is an active space designed to enhance daily life. Its construction emphasizes green technology, starting with its partially below-ground situation and the use of earth soils on the roof for natural insulation. The movement of residents intelligently controls the use of elements such as lights, which turn off after a set time. Even the windows are active, with finishes that automatically close when exposed to excessive sunlight.

The Boulevarde project was approved by the local council after eleven months of planning, and construction began in December 2016, completing in September 2018. The design team's goal was to set new benchmarks for sustainable building in the industry, which required extensive research and sourcing of the latest technologies. Overcoming challenges such as a narrow, sloped block and limited access, the team's creativity and expertise resulted in a truly unique and sustainable home.

The Boulevarde has been recognized for its outstanding design, receiving the Iron A' Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Boulevarde stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable architecture and its potential to create a better world.