Benice Sustainable Village

Prague, CZ

Benice Village is located outside of Prague in an area designated for compact mixed-use development. As a Partner of Cooper Robertson & Partners, Marc Wouters served as design lead for the final Village Center plan as well as architect of mixed-use buildings and several homes. 

Based on traditional villages, the plan is designed to dramatically reduce energy consumption through its pedestrian-oriented planning and through creation of its own biomass power plant. The village center serves as a community focal point with small shops, post office, kindergarten, and a variety of dwelling types.

Houses designed for the village combine modern details with traditional massing. Homes include rain cisterns, highly efficient energy and water systems, and local materials.