golany architects’ house in galilee has an ever-changing atmosphere due to its louvres

golany architects’ latest residential project overlooks the sea of galilee with a sweeping view of the northern region of israel from every room. the generous openings facing the view to the south and east, require the provision of shading and filtering against the intense sun, which is provided by the wooden shutters.

the house integrates into its surroundings of rugged soil and olive and carob groves
all images by amit geron, golany architects

tel-aviv based practice golany architects has designed the shutters to slide in adjustment to the position of the sun and privacy requirements. the lattices, as typical of mediterranean mashrabiya, block views inwards and maintain privacy, while allowing one to enjoy the scenery from the inside. the windows and doors behind it are recessed to improve climate control, creating intermediate spaces of shaded outdoor areas. even during the very hot days of summer, these measures keep the house cool and pleasant.

the horses graze in the pastoral surroundings

the design of the elevations is a contemporary interpretation of the romantic notion of balconies with a view. the vertical proportion of the openings provides continuity between the nearby view and the distant view adorned by the lake. carefully positioned openings on the rear elevations also capture views of mount canaan and the old town of safed.

view from the surrounding grove

it was a challenge to design the residence while maintaining visual continuity from the lot towards the horizon. the lot is only 500 m², so the residence is designed in two floors to have maximum outdoor area. preserved mature olive and oak trees are an immediate continuum to the garden. both the house and garden, are leveled for optimal far views, while they seem to continue unobstructed towards the surrounding landscape.

interior view of the living room towards the east with the preserved oak tree

view from the living space towards the sea of galilee in the first light of dawn

interior view of the living space from the kitchen

between the glazed doors and the shutters, intermediate spaces are created

the light rays penetrating through the slits create a magical and ever-changing atmosphere in the interior

unobstructed continuity between the nearby view and the distant view adorned by the sea of galilee

the indoor-outdoor terrace on the first floor, at the corner, extends the family room and the girl’s bedroom

the south elevation seen at twilight

the house becomes a magic lantern in the dusk

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

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