Sustainable Residential Design in Swampy Area

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, School of Architecture and Building Sciences, Department of Architecture

Idea projektu

The Residence Visitor lodge in the swampy area employs several principles of sustainable design evident
from the image. Here are the key principles:
1.Integration of Renewable Energy Sources:
•The roof features solar panels and solar water heaters, harnessing renewable energy to
power the lodge sustainably.
2.Water Management Systems:
•The presence of water tanks suggests rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling
systems for efficient water management.
3.Green Roof and Vertical Gardens:
•The use of greenery on walls and the roof reduces heat absorption, improves insulation,
and enhances biodiversity.
4.Passive Design Strategies:
•Skylights and windows on the roof likely optimize natural lighting and ventilation,
reducing reliance on artificial systems.
5.Site-Specific Adaptation:
•The lodge structure elevated, using stilts to account for swampy terrain, preventing
waterlogging and damage from flooding.
6.Local and Eco-Friendly Materials:
•Wooden and natural materials visible in the structure reduce environmental impact and
blend the building harmoniously with its surroundings.
7.Biodiversity Enhancement:
•Landscaping with native plants and maintaining natural water features fosters local flora
and fauna.
These features align with sustainable design principles, reducing the lodge's ecological
footprint while maintaining harmony with its swampy environment.

Popis projektu

It comprise of Lounge ,Gaming area ,Dining Area, Kitchen ,home office , ensuite master bedroom.

Technické informace

01. Photovoltaic Panels and Solar Water Heater.
Photovoltaic panels (10 kW system) are positioned at a "30-degree angle" for optimal solar energy capture. A solar water
heater uses vacuum tubes and an insulated tank to store up to 300 liters of hot water. Panels and heaters are mounted on aluminum frames for lightweight durability, and the system is connected to a battery storage unit and water piping.
Purpose: To generate renewable electricity for powering the lodge and provide sustainable hot water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting off-grid operations in the remote location.

05. Green Facade System (Vertical Garden).
Vertical panels with modular green wall systems consisting of native plant species. The frame is made of galvanized steel with an integrated drip irrigation system for water efficiency. Plants are chosen for their low water and maintenance requirements, promoting biodiversity. Each panel measures 2.5m x 0.8m and is fixed to the main facade with corrosion-resistant brackets.
Purpose: Provides natural cooling and insulation, improves air quality, and enhances the aesthetic integration with the swampy surroundings.

02. Roof Assembly.
Roofing made of terracotta tiles over a waterproof membrane for water resistance and thermal insulation. The roof is supported by galvanized steel trusses, and fasteners are treated for corrosion resistance. Skylights are double-glazed Low-E glass with dimensions of approximately 1.5m x 0.8m , designed for controlled daylighting. Solar panels, each measuring **1.6m x 1m**, are installed to generate renewable energy.
Purpose: To provide weather protection, enhance natural ventilation and daylighting, and reduce energy consumption through renewable sources.

03. Ceiling and Upper Floor.
Ceiling constructed from treated bamboo panels with an eco-friendly varnish to resist humidity.
Thermal insulation (20mm cork or foam) is placed beneath the upper deck for energy efficiency. The upper floor serves as an observation deck, built with reclaimed timber planks supported by anti-rust steel beams.
Purpose: To provide structural insulation, enhance the aesthetic of the interior space, and
create an elevated platform for visitors to enjoy the swampy surroundings safely.

04. Structural Walls and Cladding.
Walls are made of reinforced brick with exterior cladding in treated vertical timber slats. Waterproof coatings and weather-resistant sealants are applied to all joints. The average wall thickness is 250mm, including insulation to regulate indoor temperature.
Purpose:
- To provide structural stability, protect the interior from environmental elements, and
blend the lodge with its natural surroundings

05. Green Facade System (Vertical Garden).
Vertical panels with modular green wall systems consisting of native plant species. The frame is made of galvanized steel with an integrated drip irrigation system for water efficiency. Plants are chosen for their low water and maintenance requirements, promoting biodiversity. Each panel measures 2.5m x 0.8m and is fixed to the main facade with corrosion-resistant brackets.
Purpose: Provides natural cooling and insulation, improves air quality, and
enhances the aesthetic integration with the swampy surroundings.

06. Fenestration (Windows and Doors).
Sliding glass doors (4.2m height, 1.2m width per panel) and windows are framed with treated timber. Glazing is double-layered with low-emissivity (Low-E) coating to reduce heat gain. Weather-tight seals are applied to all openings.
Purpose: To maximize natural lighting, allow for ventilation, and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection while maintaining energy efficiency.

07. Ground-Level Deck and Walkways (with Stilts Integration).
Elevated deck constructed from -pressure-treated timber-, supported by the stilt foundation. The planks are spaced 5-10mm apart for natural drainage, and the anti-slip finish ensures safety. Walkways leading to the lodge are made of similar materials, supported by smaller timber posts.
.Purpose: To provide safe, durable access to the lodge while preserving the natural flow of water beneath, ensuring minimal environmental disruption and durability against swampy conditions.

7a. Stilts Foundation.
The structure is supported by reinforced concrete stilts, each with a diameter of 0.5m and extending 3m below ground for stability in swampy terrain. The exposed parts are finished with a waterproof coating, and cross-bracing is integrated to resist lateral forces.
Purpose: Elevates the building above flood-prone areas, minimizes impact on the swamp
ecosystem, and provides long-term structural resilience.

08. Water Systems.
Stainless steel water tanks with a capacity of 2,000 liters each, connected to a rainwater harvesting system from the roof. Piping is made of durable, corrosion-resistant PVC with sealed joints.
Purpose: To store and recycle rainwater for use in sanitation and irrigation, reducing dependency on external water sources.

09. Interior Layout and Furniture.
Flooring uses engineered wood panels (15mm thick) with a moisture barrier. Built-in furniture, including kitchen counters and dining tables, is made from reclaimed wood. The living room and lounge include rattan furniture with waterproof upholstery.
Purpose: To create a comfortable and functional interior space that reflects sustainability principles while withstanding the humid environment.

10. Elevated Decking and Veranda with Glass Railing.
Constructed from sustainably sourced hardwood treated to resist decay and termites. The decking features an anti-slip finish and measures 2.5m above ground for flood resilience.
Glass Railing: Tempered glass panels with stainless steel framing along the deck perimeter. Glass is 12mm thick for durability and impact resistance, with brushed stainless steel posts and top rails.
Purpose: Enhances safety without obstructing views of the surrounding swampy environment. Creates a seamless visual connection between the visitor lodge and its natural surroundings.

11. Surrounding Vegetation and Landscaping.
The immediate swampy area is planted with native aquatic and semi-aquatic species. The landscaping incorporates soil-stabilizing plants and natural water filtration systems.
Purpose: Enhances the natural ecology, prevents soil erosion, and provides habitat for local wildlife while integrating the building into the environment.

12. Pergola on Deck
A wooden pergola constructed from weather-treated timber beams, aligned with the deck’s design. The pergola spans 3m x 5m, with overhead beams spaced at 0.5m intervals for partial shading. Integrated retractable fabric panels provide additional sun protection when needed.
Purpose: Offers a shaded outdoor space for visitors to enjoy the surroundings comfortably while reducing direct heat gain on the deck.

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