VILLA "OLD OAKS"

The client organized a proper architectural competition with five invited offices in order to choose an architect for his new home. The residence is situated in a neighborhood of six larger villas. The unique feature of the site is a splendid view of a stand of oak trees that are over a hundred years old. The form follows the outline plot by “offset” of four meters from the perimeter of the property, according to the local building codes. The terrain slopes down towards the old oaks. To guarantee access to this view, the house is organized in stepped levels that follow the terrain, in half floor increments. The heart of the house is an external covered courtyard. Main spaces such as the entrance lobby/staircase, the children's playroom, dining, living, bedroom and work areas all overlook the space. These rooms, plus wellness area and small pool, also have a view towards the park. The staircase roof is glazed and the courtyard roof is part-glass, part-wood, and has views of the sky and the tree tops, creating visual connections between inside and outside. Other programs inside the house follow the client's very strict and precise brief. Security and fire escape issues were also important, as was the clear division of private and public areas of the house. Public areas were clearly distinguished from private areas defined by client. Since the client’s software profession the house had to be intelligent- air conditioning, security and sun-responsive external louvers are controlled by software, and different ambiances can be created. He also required an environmentally sustainable concept that would conserve energy and resources according to seasonal climate change. Another request in the brief was for an outdoor space that he could enjoy in both rainy and sunny days. As such, the atrium around which all of the rooms are organized has a roof and protection from the view of the neighbors so one can enjoy outdoor intimacy.