District 11
The blocks are located in MBR City, Dubai. The location and development of the District 11 are precise to the topography of the land, unfolding on a single level in an “O” shape, integrating its interior and exterior social areas.
From a functional aspect, the houses were conceived under an introspective criterion, where its front facade is austere in a play of volumes and planes without windows; and, on the contrary, its back facade opens towards the private back garden through large windows that fill its volumes. Allowing the integration of interior and exterior spaces, taking advantage of the extensive green area of the land, while maintaining privacy for its users. From an aesthetic aspect, it is inspired by classic modernist houses from the 50s, where laconic planes and volumes prevail while its structure is evident as part of the formal aspect of the house. The play of flat roofs, at different heights, dynamizes its facades and creates a sort of additional half-height in the social area, allowing indirect natural light to enter, while enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape at all times.
There are three types of villas, measuring 860, 1160, and 2120 square meters respectively. Combined in groups of two, three and four, the villas look like light monoliths carefully integrated into the landscape. The villas are situated on the neighborhood’s edge. They have a relatively closed entrance facade facing the proposed park in the centre. On the opposite side, opened themselves completely to the characteristic Dubai skyline landscape and crystal lagoon.
The horizontally arranged volumes are being reinforced by elongated slabs laid in courses with deeply recessed vertical joints. Two different stone types with subtitle differences in color and layout organize the façade and accentuate the position of entrances and other openings. The dark colors of the slate bricks are discreet and allow landscape to dominate the overall impression. The result is a solid and sober ensemble with a timeless ambition.
