IMAGINE WATA

The Aerys Village project, located along the Somone lagoon in Thies, is a residential complex of eight villas, each occupying a 1,000 m² plot. Designed by Atelier KALM, the project focuses on bioclimatic principles and a deep connection with nature. The villas, arranged like a modernised traditional village, reflect the harmony between architecture and the environment.

Each villa is built with raw earth brick walls that enhance thermal inertia, ensuring a cooler indoor temperature during the day and heat retention at night. Wooden pergolas and carefully placed trees manage solar radiation, providing natural shade. Cross openings allow fresh air circulation, while a roof-level air renewal system ensures efficient ventilation at night, reducing dependence on air conditioning.

Locally sourced materials, including laterite stone and shells, were used extensively. The laterite stone clads the exterior walls, adding durability and aesthetics, while shells were used for outdoor paving. This emphasis on using local resources underscores the project's ecological commitment, combining modern design with traditional Senegalese techniques.

The project incorporates TECHNAL’s SOLEAL exterior joinery system, perfectly suited to the region’s climate. SOLEAL sliding doors and windows, free of thermal bridge breaks, provide effective insulation and a sleek design. These large windows flood the interiors with natural light, creating a seamless connection between the inside and the surrounding landscape. The durable, minimalist joinery integrates harmoniously with the bioclimatic features of the villas.

A key element of the landscape design was preserving the existing Prosopis trees and planting over a hundred new trees to foster biodiversity. This design approach merges the built and natural environments, creating a serene living space that aligns with both ecological and aesthetic principles.

Aerys Village offers a contemporary take on traditional Senegalese architecture, maintaining a profound connection with nature. It stands as an example of sustainable innovation, blending luxury with ecological mindfulness.