Nestled in the peaceful village of Pănășești, Moldova, Wake Park Houses is an architectural project that merges contemporary design with ecological sensitivity. The development consists of three rental houses, each shaped as earth-covered domes that blend effortlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Project Name: Wake Park Houses A Serene Escape in Harmony with Nature
Studio Name: LH47 ARCH
Location: Pănășești, Moldova
Area per house: 26 sq. m.
Total area: 5,000 sq.m
Team: Serghei Mirza, founder of LH47 ARCH, Vadim Fonariuc
Renders: LH47 ARCH
Drawing inspiration from the charming aesthetics of “Hobbit” dwellings, the project prioritizes sustainability, energy efficiency, and a profound bond with nature.
At its core, the design seeks to reduce environmental impact while reviving age-old construction techniques. Straw bales serve as natural insulation, while walls are finished with mazanka — a blend of clay, straw, and lime — ensuring optimal temperature and humidity control. The earth-covered roofs provide superior thermal insulation and help reintegrate the built structures into the terrain, embodying the idea of returning borrowed land to nature. Wooden framing further minimizes the carbon footprint, resulting in durable, eco-conscious homes.
Architecturally, each house functions as a self-contained retreat, offering privacy and tranquility. Expansive windows capture picturesque views of the nearby lake, while private terraces create secluded outdoor spaces. Shared courtyards foster a sense of community, striking a harmonious balance between solitude and social connection. Inside, interiors crafted by local artisans feature handmade furniture and natural materials, cultivating a warm, authentic ambiance that reflects the project’s sustainable philosophy.
Sustainability is central to the design, with pioneering techniques such as straw insulation, clay plaster, and earth-covered roofs — innovations rarely seen in Moldova. Natural ventilation and passive thermal regulation reduce dependence on artificial systems, reinforcing the project’s eco-friendly approach.
Challenges arose during construction, particularly due to limited local expertise in straw bale and clay techniques, requiring specialized training and structural refinements. Modular assembly and inventive solutions, like mesh-reinforced green roofs, demanded careful execution.
