Interview about Villa Estelle Private Residence, winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2023
Villa Estelle, located in Dubai, is a masterfully designed ode to nature and luxury. Curating a signature mood throughout the spaces and delivering delicate meanings hidden in its various details. This luxury villa is a reflection of the owner's taste, personality, and lifestyle. Incorporating sustainable design principles such as solar panels, green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and smart home technology, reducing environmental impact and energy costs. Capturing effortless elegance beauty with bespoke furnishings and layouts that crafts the perfect symbiotic harmonious spaces.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe design of Villa Estelle Private Residence was an opportunity to explore the seamless integration of sustainability and luxury—a balance that I believe is central to the future of architecture. The vision was to create a residence that not only captivates visually but also embraces environmental responsibility as an intrinsic part of its identity.Sustainable design principles were not treated as afterthoughts but as the foundation of the project. Solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, green roofs, and high-albedo materials were all carefully considered and incorporated holistically. These features were not merely functional additions but integral to the villa’s form and experience. The green roofs, for instance, serve as natural insulation, reduce the heat island effect, and provide a visual connection to nature, softening the architecture with a living, organic layer. High-albedo materials reflect the intense sunlight of Dubai, reducing heat absorption and optimizing energy performance, while rainwater harvesting systems address the pressing need for water conservation in arid environments.Locally sourced materials were another critical component. By drawing from the region’s resources, the project not only reduced its carbon footprint but also established a sense of belonging to its cultural and environmental context. The use of these materials was deliberate, aligning sustainability goals with the aesthetic ambition of creating a residence that feels both rooted and refined.What distinguishes this approach is the subtlety with which these elements are integrated. The ecological features are not showcased as overt statements but are interwoven into the architecture, enhancing its sleek and modern aesthetic. This subtle integration ensures that the design feels timeless, proving that environmental responsibility can enhance, rather than compromise, luxury.Villa Estelle represents a vision of architecture where sustainability and luxury are not opposing forces but complementary ideals. It is a statement of how design can respond to the challenges of our time while remaining aspirational, setting a new benchmark for what high-end living can achieve.
The integration of smart home technology in Villa Estelle Private Residence was driven by a desire to create a home that embodies effortless luxury while maintaining the warmth and intimacy that define a personal sanctuary. For me, technology should serve as an enabler, quietly enhancing the living experience without dominating it.The approach centered on personalization. By prioritizing systems that adapt intuitively to the needs of each resident, the technology becomes an extension of their lifestyle. Whether it’s lighting that adjusts to natural rhythms, climate controls that respond dynamically to changing conditions, or entertainment systems tailored to individual preferences, the goal was to ensure that the home feels uniquely attuned to its occupants. In a setting like Dubai, where the climate presents its own challenges, this level of responsiveness is essential to maintaining comfort.Effortless luxury lies in the invisibility of these systems. Devices and interfaces were meticulously integrated into the architecture, allowing the design to remain clean and elegant. Hidden sensors, discreet control panels, and seamless connectivity ensure that the technology works in the background, enhancing the home’s functionality without detracting from its aesthetic. This approach reflects my belief that technology should enrich our lives without overwhelming our environments.The aim was to create a residence where innovation and humanity coexist harmoniously—a space where technology simplifies life, supports sustainability, and enhances the emotional connection to the home. Villa Estelle redefines luxury in a way that looks forward, demonstrating how advanced systems can elevate the experience of living without compromising on the timeless qualities of comfort and intimacy.
The incorporation of green roofs into Villa Estelle Private Residence was driven by a dual ambition: to respond to the environmental challenges of Dubai’s climate and to forge a deeper connection between the home and its natural surroundings. For me, green roofs represent a synthesis of sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic harmony, blending the built environment with the organic.Functionally, the green roofs address the practicalities of Dubai’s hot and arid climate. By significantly improving insulation, they help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption, which is vital in a region where cooling demands are considerable. They also mitigate the urban heat island effect, creating a cooler microclimate around the villa and contributing to the well-being of the surrounding environment. These practical benefits align with the villa’s broader commitment to sustainable design, ensuring that every element serves a purpose beyond its immediate utility.Aesthetically, the green roofs were conceived to complement the architecture without overwhelming it. They blend seamlessly into the villa’s clean, modern lines, offering subtle moments of organic beauty. From a bedroom, one of the green roofs is fully visible, creating a serene and natural outlook that enhances the private spaces of the home. This interplay of greenery and architecture underscores the idea that natural elements can elevate the experience of a space without compromising its sophistication.The green roofs exemplify the villa’s broader philosophy: that architecture can harmonize luxury with environmental consciousness. They demonstrate how sustainable features, when thoughtfully integrated, can enhance not just the functionality of a building but its emotional resonance as well. Villa Estelle becomes a sanctuary that is deeply attuned to its environment, a model of how modern architecture can both serve and celebrate the natural world.
Designing Villa Estelle Private Residence was an exploration of how architecture can be a true reflection of its inhabitants. The process was deeply personal, centered on translating the dynamic lifestyle of a prominent businessman into a bespoke living environment that balances spaces for grand gatherings with intimate, private retreats.The ground floor was conceived as the heart of the home’s social life, dedicated entirely to entertaining. It was designed to feel both expansive and welcoming, with a layout that allows for fluid connections between formal and informal areas. The open design fosters a sense of grandeur while maintaining versatility, enabling the space to transition seamlessly between large-scale events and smaller, more intimate gatherings. Bespoke furnishings, tailored to the villa’s aesthetic, enhance this adaptability while adding a layer of warmth and individuality.The upper level contrasts this social vibrancy with an atmosphere of calm retreat. The private quarters were envisioned as sanctuaries, with each bedroom suite incorporating its own living room. These spaces are defined by understated elegance—luxurious yet restrained, they prioritize comfort and serenity while retaining the sophistication expected in a high-profile residence. The interplay of soft materials, refined textures, and thoughtful layouts creates an environment that is as functional as it is inviting.Every detail, from the layout to the custom-designed furniture, reflects my interpretation of the client’s unique personality and preferences. The material palette, textures, and furnishings were all selected to harmonize with the architecture while providing a sense of individuality in each space. This bespoke approach ensures that the residence is not just a place to live but a true expression of the owner’s identity.Villa Estelle represents the power of architecture to merge function with character, creating a home that is as practical as it is personal. It is a reminder that great design begins with people, crafting spaces that respond to their lives while elevating their everyday experiences.
Parametric modeling was a cornerstone in the design of Villa Estelle Private Residence, allowing us to explore the intricate interplay between structural efficiency and aesthetic refinement. This computational approach empowered us to push the boundaries of design, achieving solutions that are both technically advanced and visually striking.The villa’s structural components were shaped by the precision of parametric modeling. Using these tools, we were able to optimize load distribution and minimize material use while maintaining uncompromising structural integrity. This was particularly critical for the large spans of the ground floor, designed to host expansive gatherings. By simulating multiple scenarios, we achieved a balance between openness and stability, ensuring the spaces felt grand yet effortlessly supported.This methodology also informed the selection and application of materials. Parametric modeling provided the means to refine choices based on both performance and visual harmony. It allowed us to innovate with materials, selecting those that were lightweight yet resilient, and aesthetically aligned with the villa’s modern character. The result was an architectural language that seamlessly blends function with elegance.Aesthetically, the parametric process guided the creation of a design that feels rhythmic and balanced. While functionality drove the initial form, the computational tools lent a natural order to the geometry, resulting in clean lines and a sense of refinement. This approach demonstrates how technology, when used thoughtfully, can inspire beauty and enhance the emotional resonance of a space.Villa Estelle represents a synthesis of innovation and artistry. The use of parametric modeling enabled us to design a residence that aligns form, function, and sustainability into a cohesive whole. It is a model of how computational tools can elevate architectural practice, setting a precedent for designs that are both efficient and profoundly compelling.
In designing Villa Estelle Private Residence, I sought to create an architecture that bridges the timelessness of tradition with the innovation of modern technology. The aim was to craft a home that respects cultural heritage while embracing the opportunities of the future—a design that feels as relevant today as it will in decades to come.The spatial organization drew heavily on traditional principles, informed by cultural elements such as spaces for gathering and privacy. These arrangements reflect a sense of hospitality and connection that is deeply rooted in the region’s heritage. Open-plan areas foster a natural flow of light and air, encouraging interaction, while private suites upstairs provide serene, retreat-like environments. The use of natural materials—locally sourced stone and wood—was essential to grounding the villa in its context, offering warmth and a tactile connection to the surrounding environment.To complement these traditional elements, I integrated advanced technologies seamlessly into the design. Smart systems for lighting, climate, and security enhance everyday life, operating quietly in the background to maintain the aesthetic integrity of the space. Energy-efficient materials and the precision of parametric modeling allowed for structural and environmental optimization, ensuring the villa performs as efficiently as it looks.The interplay between these elements was handled with subtlety and care. Rather than competing, the traditional and modern components work in harmony, each enhancing the other. This integration ensures the design is not just functional or beautiful, but enduring—capable of evolving with time while remaining true to its original vision.Villa Estelle represents my belief that architecture must honor the past while embracing the future. It demonstrates how a thoughtful balance of tradition and technology can result in spaces that are not only innovative but also timeless, setting a standard for designs that transcend trends and become lasting legacies.
The material selection for Villa Estelle Private Residence was guided by a holistic approach to sustainability, combining environmental responsibility, performance, and aesthetic refinement. For me, the choice of materials is not just about functionality; it is about creating a narrative that connects the architecture to its context while addressing the challenges of our time.Locally sourced materials were fundamental to the project. By using stone and other natural elements native to the region, we minimized the carbon footprint associated with transportation while establishing a strong sense of place. These materials carry a timeless quality, grounding the villa in Dubai’s unique environment and reinforcing its connection to the cultural and natural landscape.Innovation was equally critical. High-performance materials with advanced thermal properties were carefully selected to address the demands of Dubai’s extreme climate. These materials reduced energy consumption by minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems, contributing to the villa’s sustainability goals. For example, specialized coatings and finishes were applied to reflect heat, maintaining indoor comfort while preserving the villa’s clean and modern aesthetic.A particularly exciting discovery was the use of a cutting-edge composite material, which offered exceptional thermal insulation while being lightweight and versatile. This innovation allowed for greater design flexibility, enabling the creation of expansive structural elements that are both strong and efficient. It is an example of how advances in material science can inspire new possibilities in architecture.The materials were implemented with precision, ensuring their functional benefits were matched by their visual contribution. Structural components benefited from the strength and efficiency of advanced materials, while natural, locally sourced finishes provided warmth and texture. The result is a harmonious blend of durability, performance, and beauty, demonstrating how sustainability can coexist with luxury.Villa Estelle exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to materiality—one that aligns environmental goals with architectural excellence. It stands as a model for how careful material selection can elevate a design, setting a standard for sustainable, high-performance, and timeless architecture.
Designing Villa Estelle Private Residence, with its impressive 40,000 square feet, was a rewarding challenge that required balancing grand scale with intimate, welcoming spaces while staying true to sustainability goals. My approach centered on flexible zoning, thoughtful layouts, and a deep understanding of spatial flow and connectivity.Flexible zoning was key to achieving this balance. I designed the villa with zones that can expand or contract based on the needs of the moment. For example, the expansive ground floor, tailored for hosting large gatherings, can transition into smaller, more intimate areas by using strategically placed partitions and adaptable furnishings. This flexibility allows the residence to feel either grand or cozy, depending on the occasion.The layout itself was crafted to enhance this adaptability. By carefully studying the flow of spaces and their interconnections, I created a design that feels harmonious regardless of scale. Large, open areas seamlessly transition into private, contained spaces, ensuring the villa never feels overwhelming. The use of visual cues—such as changes in ceiling heights, lighting, and material textures—further reinforces this adaptability, guiding residents and guests to experience the space as inviting and personal.From a sustainability perspective, the villa’s scale was carefully managed through energy-efficient systems and design strategies. The zoning also plays a role in sustainability by allowing energy use to be concentrated only in the areas being utilized. Additionally, high-performance materials and advanced building systems were implemented to optimize thermal performance and reduce energy consumption.Villa Estelle was designed to provide a dynamic living experience. Its ability to shift between grand and intimate, combined with its sustainable features, ensures that the residence is as functional and inviting as it is luxurious and environmentally conscious.
The design of Villa Estelle Private Residence is a response to the unique climatic and ecological conditions of Dubai. My aim was to create a hybrid balance—one where the architecture respects and integrates with the natural environment while embracing the innovation of modern principles. This approach reflects a broader philosophy: that architecture should not simply exist in its setting but actively engage with and enhance it.The villa’s orientation and form were carefully considered to address Dubai’s hot and arid climate. By minimizing southern exposure, we reduced the impact of the harshest sunlight, while horizontal balconies serve as both functional shading devices and elegant architectural features. These interventions significantly reduce heat gain, limiting the reliance on active cooling systems and aligning with the villa’s sustainability goals.Natural ventilation was another key strategy. Openings were strategically placed to create airflow patterns that cool the interior spaces, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation. At the entrance, a reflection pool provides an additional layer of environmental responsiveness, utilizing evaporative cooling to lower temperatures and offering a tranquil, refreshing arrival experience.The integration of green roofs further reinforces the villa’s connection to its environment. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these roofs enhance thermal insulation and support water conservation efforts by housing low-water-use vegetation suited to Dubai’s conditions. Rainwater harvesting systems ensure that the landscaping remains lush and sustainable throughout the year, demonstrating how design can address environmental challenges holistically.This interplay of natural elements and modern techniques allows Villa Estelle to transcend its function as a residence and become a dialogue with its environment. It offers a living experience that is not only luxurious and comfortable but also deeply connected to its ecological and cultural context. By blending the organic with the technological, the villa reflects a commitment to sustainability, creating a design that is both timeless and forward-looking—a model for how architecture can harmonize with the natural world.
Villa Estelle Private Residence embodies a core tenet of meaningful architecture: the responsibility to balance the immediate needs of today with the enduring obligations to tomorrow. It stands as proof that luxury and sustainability are not opposing forces but rather complementary ideals that can—and must—coexist seamlessly.This project challenges conventional notions of high-end design, proving that environmental responsibility need not come at the expense of elegance. By integrating advanced technologies, innovative materials, and climate-responsive strategies, Villa Estelle redefines what residential architecture can achieve. The thoughtful orientation, natural ventilation, and passive design principles are woven into a fabric of cutting-edge systems, creating spaces that are as efficient as they are beautiful.Dubai, with its dynamic urban landscape and challenging climate, is a city that represents the future of architectural opportunity. Villa Estelle rises to meet these challenges not by resisting the environment but by engaging with it. It takes lessons from the region’s cultural and ecological context, resulting in a design that is as innovative as it is deeply rooted in its place. This contextual sensitivity is a universal principle: the best architecture is always responsive to its surroundings.Beyond Dubai, Villa Estelle underscores a larger imperative: sustainability is no longer optional—it is essential. The principles embedded in this project—efficiency, adaptability, and integration with nature—are scalable and globally relevant. As architects, our role is to design with a vision that extends beyond the present, creating structures that endure physically, inspire philosophically, and address the needs of future generations.In this sense, Villa Estelle is more than a residence; it is a statement of what architecture can and should achieve. It demonstrates how innovation, sustainability, and humanity can converge to create a design that not only serves its occupants but also contributes to the greater good. I believe this project will inspire architects and developers to prioritize these values, leaving a legacy of design excellence that reflects a shared responsibility for our planet and its future.
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