Paul Raff Studio received a Design Exchange Award for Merit for Cascade House. The jury called the design: "subtle, sophisticated, calming...” They appreciated “...the submission’s detailed green initiatives...” and though “cost reduction techniques were utilized... the end result still retains a luxurious outcome.”

Prototypes, sketches, and photographs from the project are on display at the Design Exchange as part of the 2008 Awards Exhibition from November 26th 2008 - March 1st, 2009.

rvtr Directors Kathy Velikov and Paul Raff presented the scheme in Helsinki to an international jury.  The competition brief presented architects with the task of creating energy efficient, affordable, single-family, detached housing suitable to the extreme conditions of northern Russia. rvtr responded to this brief by asserting that sustainable design must go beyond issues of energy consumption reduction, to generate more diverse and interconnected natural, social, and economic networks beyond the typical scope of domestic design commissions.

LATITUDE is a system of prefabricated highly engineered lightweight steel modular units that perform quadruple-duty as energy efficient building envelope, integrated structural system, space defining elements and an infrastructural chassis for building services.  The system allows for awide variety of configurations capable of adaptation to respond to future needs.

rvtr is a multidisciplinary research based architecture practice formed by Colin Ripley, Kathy Velikov, Geoffrey Thün, and Paul Raff, engaged in architectural, urban design, and sustainable innovation. For more information visit www.rvtr.com.

Rendering produced by rvtr

Culu Culu Polo Lifestyle resort is the world's first specialized multi-field polo and equestrian estate incorporating a luxury villa resort, spa, restaurants, hotel, clubhouse and recreational facilities bordering on over 60 ha of lakes and bird sanctuaries.

Set in the Argentine Pampas, twenty minutes south of Buenas Aries International Airport, the eight polo-field gated luxury estate spreads over a natural expanse of over 1,200 acres. Inspired by Argentina's natural landscape, Paul Raff Studio's Onyx Villas are highly textural, light and free flowing celebrating the surounding natural features. Each villa is set around one of the eight polo fields and offers exclusive views of the action. Landscaping is designed to provide privacy and distinctive character to the community. The signature resort hotel is designed around intimate luxury, featuring an extensive contemporary art collection and a sculpted roof that offers dramatic views of the landscape.