For this project, a gated community adjacent to a country club, the client required us to design a series of eight different villa typologies, four in a contemporary style and four in a traditional style, with each set of four comprising one in an Arabic style, one in a Mediterranean style, one in French style, and one in a contemporary style.Following an extensive study of these styles, we defined the key characteristics of each style. As such we determined the following:
Arabic: Modular composition with symmetry within units. Domed and/ or flat roofs. Massive walls with small openings. Stylised elements including mashrabiya and wind catchers.Plan based around a courtyard.
Mediterranean: Organic and asymmetrical composition. Shallow and/or flat roofs. Layered walls.Characterful arches, balustrades and windows.
French: Highly symmetrical organisation. Steep and dominant roofs, solid walls with large openings. Characterised by dormers, balconies and window shutters.
Contemporary:Conceptual and/or geometric organisation. Integrated, unifying and/or sculptural roofs. Fluid and/or unifying windows. Integrated and minimal features. These characteristics were used to inform the design of each of the eight typologies, four in a traditional manner, and four in a contemporary style.