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House 00 - Villa for Solitude in Jebel Jais, UAE by MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

Project name:
House 00 - Villa for Solitude
Architecture firm:
MEAN* Middle East Architecture Network
Location:
Jebel Jais, Ras Al-Khaimah, UAE
Tools used:
Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper, Autodesk 3ds Max, V-ray, Twinmotion
Principal architect:
Riyad Joucka
Design team:
Wael Nasrallah, Amro Mansy, Yasmeen Atoum
Built area:
2000 m²
Site area:
6000 m²
Design year:
2020
Completion year:
N/A
Collaborators:
Private
Visualization:
Dune Studios
Status:
Schematic Design
Typology:
Private Residence

House 00 is a retreat, a sanctuary of the self, and an architectural response to shifting sociality in a post-Covid-19 world.  Envisioned by Middle East Architecture Network (MEAN) as a prototype for living in isolation away from urban density, House 00 is an attempt at rebooting the basic conditions of domesticity, serenity, and intimacy.

Sitting at the highest point in the United Arab Emirates, on the soaring peaks of Jebel Jais northeast of Ras-Al Khaimah, House 00 boasts a the critical balance of being simultaneously in nature yet out of reach. Quality of air, breath-taking views and exceptional Dunite rock landscapes make Jebel Jais a perfect location for a unique house

On the inside, the 2000 SQM contemporary design borrows from traditional elements of local residential architecture, featuring all the amenities for a comfortable and healthy life, as well as the social and cultural necessities of the Emirati family. On the outside, the sculptural limestone and glass façade blends seamlessly into the surroundings, looking pristine yet man-made; monolithic yet architectonic at the same time.

hillside house with pool in UAEimage © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

The house is organized into two parts embracing an inner courtyard. Spaces are split between east and west wings based on their respective uses and expected visitors. The facade pattern continues upwards as a coffered slab hovering over the courtyard making for an in-house shaded oasis. A waterfall feature adds sound to the pleasant ambiance and marks the way to an infinity pool overlooking the mountains.

courtyard with waterfall and geen plants image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

Absorbed amid lush greenery and ample landscape, the main entrance leads visitors into the west wing via a double-height reception hall that segues into the dining area overlooking the courtyard, a gentle warp away from the Women’s Majlis. Walking past the courtyard, the journey concludes with a double-height family living with a staircase leading to the family private suite with four bedrooms.

staircase with wooden steps image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

The first floor is slashed 45 degrees aligning with the mountain cliff to capture south-east views. Daylight is invited through large windows in the living room, and also through skylights on the roof allowing natural daylight to seep in while maintaining privacy.

cozy living space with panoramic view of mountain image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

On the east wing, guest functions align by the pool. A study room, guest bedroom, and Male Majlis are almost formally separated from the rest of the house for added privacy. A separate soft kitchen facing the pool and the view serves during poolside events and barbecue parties.

As the pandemic malaise drags across the big city, House 00 offers more than life in solitude. It sets forth a unique experience for sharpening both the soul and the senses.  

luxury furniture image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

palm tree in front of the house entrance image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model animation of the house image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

maquette image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

maquette house on a hill image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

maquette house on a hill image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model with illumination image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

architectural model top view of the villa image © MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)

Ground Floor PlanGround Floor Plan

First Floor Plan drawing First Floor Plan

Roof PlanRoof Plan

South Elevation South Elevation 

West Elevation West Elevation 

North ElevationNorth Elevation 

East ElevationEast Elevation

Axon Diagram Axon Diagram 

Connect with the MEAN* (Middle East Architecture Network)


By Naser Nader Ibrahim

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