The Vida Habitat for Humanity project in Kentville, Canada, is born from the desire to redefine the concept of a contemporary residential neighborhood by emphasizing the profound value of belonging.
The architectural vision moves beyond a simple aggregation of volumes to create an organic urban composition where the articulation of outdoor spaces is designed to foster interaction and sharing.
In this new neighborhood, the rhythmic repetition of standardized housing modules does not result in monotony, but rather a formal coherence that identifies a united community where every resident can finally feel like an integral part of a harmonious and protected whole.
Living with Nature
LOCATION Kentville, Canada
TYPE New Build
YEAR 2024
STATUS Competition
CLIENT VIDA
The spatial layout breaks away from rigid traditional planning to embrace an exquisitely domestic and human dimension. The distribution of volumes within the lot has been carefully studied to generate a sequence of outdoor “urban living rooms”, plazas and open spaces that form a single, fluid, and welcoming public realm. The proportions of the buildings and streets have been calibrated to the dimensions of the human body, defining a human-scale neighborhood where the perception of urban space is never overwhelming, but constantly suggests a sense of intimacy and security.
A fundamental pillar of the masterplan is reclaiming vital space from the dominance of cars. Through a forward-thinking design choice, vehicular traffic is confined to the perimeter of the lot, connecting the two main entrances and providing access to reserved parking without ever interfering with the neighborhood’s heart. This strategic distribution ensures a completely car-free central area, restoring to residents the pleasure of walking, socializing, and allowing children to play in total freedom and safety, immersed in a silent and healthy environment.



Finally, nature acts as the true bond between humans and architecture. The project establishes a symbiotic relationship with the landscape, integrating greenery both visually and physically into daily life.
The arrangement of the residential volumes stems directly from the need to let nature flow between the homes, creating an intimate coexistence between the built and natural environments.
The skillful alternation of paved areas with sustainable materials and vast green surfaces fosters an atmosphere of serenity and well-being, promoting a “slow life” filled with small discoveries and oriented toward a deeply eco-sustainable lifestyle.