Interview about Villa Olympea house, winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2018
The Residential Villa in the mountains of Lebanon is integrated with its surrounding nature. Its design consists of 2 L-shaped structures on the ground floor, which interact together to create an internal green patio, visible from all spaces in the house. This concept was thought of in order to avoid having corridors in the house, for aesthetic reasons as well as for avoiding loss of space. A cedar tree was planted in the internal patio,it being the emblem of the country found on the national flag , becoming the heart of the house.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe inclusion of the cedar tree, Lebanon's national emblem, within the central green patio was a deliberate gesture to celebrate and honor the country's rich natural heritage. By integrating the two L-shaped structures around this symbolic element, the house not only pays homage to Lebanese identity but also provides an uninterrupted visual connection to nature from every part of the residence. This design choice addressed practical spatial challenges by eliminating corridors and creating a seamless flow between spaces, maximizing usable areas and fostering a sense of openness. Additionally, the internal patio acts as a microclimate, enhancing natural ventilation and light distribution, while providing a serene retreat at the core of the home.
Embedding Olympea House into the mountain required a meticulous balance of design sensitivity and engineering precision. We employed advanced topographical analysis to ensure that excavation was minimized and the natural contours of the mountain were preserved. Retaining walls were strategically placed to stabilize the structure while using reinforced concrete to ensure durability. Additionally, we opted for low-emission glass and natural stone cladding, which not only blend harmoniously with the environment but also reduce heat transfer, minimizing energy consumption. Rainwater harvesting systems and sustainable drainage techniques were incorporated to mitigate the environmental impact further, making the design a model for eco-conscious architecture.
Eliminating corridors in Olympea House allowed us to prioritize open-plan living and a stronger connection to the surrounding landscape. This design decision enhanced the flow of movement within the house, creating a more organic interaction between spaces. By replacing traditional hallways with interconnected living areas and direct views of the internal green patio, we fostered a sense of openness and unity. This approach also blurred the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, with large openings and terraces offering panoramic views and seamless transitions, encouraging occupants to engage more deeply with the natural environment.
Our material selection was guided by a commitment to both aesthetics and sustainability. Natural stone was chosen for its durability, local availability, and ability to integrate seamlessly with the mountain landscape, reinforcing the concept of embedding the house into its environment. Low-emission glass was incorporated to maximize natural light while minimizing heat transfer, thereby improving energy efficiency. Black steel added a contemporary contrast to the natural elements and was used strategically for pergolas and fireplaces, enhancing both structural functionality and visual appeal. This carefully curated palette ensured the residence exuded timeless elegance while adhering to sustainable building principles.
The heating and cooling system in Olympea House was designed to provide optimal comfort with minimal energy consumption. Heated flooring ensures even warmth throughout the residence during colder months, eliminating the need for intrusive radiators and enhancing aesthetic appeal. Low-emission glass plays a dual role: it reduces solar heat gain during summer and retains interior heat during winter. Together, these elements work synergistically with the home's thermal mass, leveraging the mountain's natural insulation properties. This integrated approach not only maintains a stable indoor climate but also significantly reduces the home's carbon footprint.
The internal green patio was envisioned as the heart of the home, dictating the spatial hierarchy and shaping the distribution of light and ventilation. By centering the patio, we ensured that natural light could penetrate deep into the residence, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. The open layout allowed cross-ventilation, harnessing breezes to regulate indoor temperatures. This central feature also served as a natural gathering point, fostering a sense of community and connection within the household. The spatial hierarchy was intentionally organized to prioritize views and accessibility to the patio, reinforcing its role as the core element of the design.
Winning the Gold A' Design Award underscores the importance of harmonizing architecture with its natural context. Olympea House sets a precedent for future mountain homes by demonstrating how thoughtful design can integrate sustainability, cultural identity, and luxury. It challenges architects to think beyond conventional forms and explore innovative ways to blend structures with their surroundings. The house's success highlights the potential for architecture to celebrate local heritage while embracing modern solutions, inspiring designs that prioritize environmental sensitivity and cultural resonance in Lebanon and beyond.
Designing light-filled, subterranean spaces posed several challenges, particularly in ensuring adequate natural light and ventilation. We incorporated light wells and strategically placed openings to channel daylight into the basements, creating a sense of openness despite their location. The use of reflective surfaces and light-colored materials further enhanced brightness. Integrating the garden at the basement level established a visual and physical connection to the outdoors, mitigating the feeling of being underground. These design strategies allowed the basements to function as vibrant, livable spaces rather than merely auxiliary areas.
Balancing luxury with sustainability and cultural identity required close collaboration with the client. By incorporating high-end materials and modern amenities like heated flooring and custom finishes, we ensured the residence met the client's expectations for comfort and sophistication. Simultaneously, we embedded environmental features such as low-emission glass and a green patio to align with our vision of sustainability. The inclusion of the cedar tree and the house's integration into the mountain reinforced its cultural resonance, achieving a harmonious balance between the client's desires and the architectural vision.
The journey of realizing Olympea House provided invaluable lessons in adaptability and collaboration. One critical learning moment was managing the complexities of embedding the structure into the mountain, which required innovative engineering solutions and precise execution. Another was navigating material selection to balance aesthetic appeal and environmental performance. These experiences emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into every design decision. Additionally, the project underscored the value of maintaining a strong dialogue with clients and contractors to ensure the vision was faithfully executed. These lessons continue to shape our approach, reinforcing our commitment to creating architecture that is both innovative and contextually sensitive.
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