The creative method of the SA lab architecture laboratory can be defined as "economical", which makes it at the same time environmentally friendly: they love analytics and algorithms, conduct research, create an adaptive architecture that can change quickly and without great effort. One of the latest projects, the compact FLEXSE module, reflects the core values of young architects.
FLEXSE is a small, versatile pavilion. It is easy to assemble and install on any terrain: on a slope, on the water, inside another building, or even on a roof. It can be used at any time of the year, and the interior space adapts to a variety of scenarios. There are several finishes: outside it is wooden slats, shingles and metal - perforated or rolled steel, and inside - wooden slats, plywood or composite materials.
The architects say that they were inspired and rethought the Scandinavian designs, they got a clear and understandable image: in the plan - a rectangle with rounded corners, a pitched roof, a round window and a door. The module comes with a terrace with exactly the same plan, together they give an area of 24 m2… FLEXSE looks equally appropriate in the city and outdoors. Depending on the tasks, it can be extended linearly or proportionally.
Use cases tend to endless. The architects have developed several scenarios: a cafe, a sauna, a shop, an office, and it is also possible to assemble modules into a cluster. It costs nothing to continue the row: a children's house, a place for meditation, an eco-hotel.
The first FLEXSE “prototype” to be realized was the grill house. The order had to be completed in a very short time - until the snow falls, which the team successfully coped with. The grill house is lined with wooden slats, inside there is an oven and a dining area. Looks really Scandinavian, the first association that comes to mind is with
Kampi chapel in Helsinki.
The name FLEXSE is a composite of flexible, that is, flexible, adaptive, and understandable ellipse. Other works of SA lab have similar short but apt names: multitude, convergence, paths:: valleys, gyroid house, etc. The capacious name seems to reflect the great mental work that preceded the design. It is probably to this work that the final product owes its vitality and success.
However, the function of the first FLEXSE - a grill house, makes us remember other pavilions -
chachen and vodka ceremonies, for example, done with a completely different approach.
The project received a bronze diploma of the ARKHNOVATION 2019 competition, and was also shortlisted for the BEST HOUSE AWARD 2019.
