DUBAI

This house was designed for a member of the Royal household and as such had to be more than just a home. The program called for extensive public spaces that would accommodate both modern and traditional cultural lifestyles as well as the ability to formally entertaining on a very grand scale. The plot was large and the entire site was considered part of the programming for the project.

The entry is ceremonial in nature. From the drive court a short flight of stairs leads to a dais from where the main structure can be appreciated. Our concept was of a floating metal canopy with various components arranged below it, somewhat reminiscent of a Bedouin tent or a sail. The roof is anchored by two stone towers and a glazed gallery connecting all four levels of the home is sheltered from the sun by an operable metal screen. The house is orientated north south which makes the most sense in the harsh desert climate with all the primary spaces facing north to protect from the sun and take advantage of the view to the Dubai skyline beyond.

The entry level consists entirely of spaces for formal entertaining, open to deep covered terraces for both lounging and sun protection. Water and landscaping soften the architecture and animate these spaces. The spaces were designed to be used at different times of the day, for small and large groups, with one of our favorites being the glass dining room that floats in a pool of water. Spaces for cooking and serving the guests are hidden and discreet passages allow staff to navigate the home unseen.

The second and third level of the home are devoted to the family’s private residence with an expansive primary suite and smaller suites for the children on the third level. The second level contains various family and living rooms, a large study and a two-story contemplation space. As you move away from the core of the house, the program incorporates several guest suites as well as places for service and to accommodate a large household of staff and security. In total, the program under roof is approximately 120,000 square feet, making it the largest project we have ever attempted.

The client’s love for sport and activity, allowed us the opportunity to design a gym and wellness area for the home far superior to what could be found at any of the finest hotels or clubs. Beyond extensive weight and cardio training areas, the program included a boxing ring, indoor climbing wall, and lap pool that could open to the exterior pool in the pleasant winter months. A dedicated wellness program included nearly every available treatment found in modern wellness facilities as well as changing area, spaces for contemplation and indoor-outdoor gardens. The client is also a collector of luxury cars so the garage was designed to treat the vehicles more like the objects of art when not in use.

Gardens are laid out with destinations and rest areas in mind, suitable for quiet conversation and contemplation, shaded by trees or adjacent to water elements. The garden at large incorporates both a pavilion for art and a sculptural house of poetry floating on a small pond. The perimeter is heavily screened so that privacy and security is vigorously maintained. The palette for the house is quiet luxury, elegant tones and textures of stone and metals with timeless rich wood accents.