
3+ architecture imagines a duo of villas with identical cubic façades
by splitting a single site in two 3+ architecture nestle two identical villas together, defined by huge glass windows and an ocean view.

greek studio 3+ architecture has designed two adjacent residences in manama, bahrain defined by brilliantly white cubic volumes and large recessed windowing. the identically shaped buildings are located on a single plot of land that was divided in two to accommodate both of the homes.

the property is defined by brilliant white cubic volumes
the two storey concept faces mainly towards the north-south axis, with the main entrance to the north and an ocean vista to the south. the villas’ rectangular volumes are at times separated by vertical elements which emphasize the dynamic geometry of the project. simple geometric shapes — squares, rectangles and straight lines — interact to express a firmly delineated envelope. a protruding volume to the front is adorned with a gridded feature wall articulated through numerous small triangles.

recessed glass paneling opens the property to a generous view of the nearby ocean
‘the initial intention was to maintain an open plan, so that the resident could gradually be lead form the interior to the exterior space where he could come into direct contact with the yard and the pool, and also the sea and the landscape,’ explains 3+ architecture. ‘the plan begins with more closed-off surfaces and semi-transparent elements, and as moving further along, it opens up to the sea, where large windows allow the sun to penetrate into the interior and permit the inhabitants to relish in the view.’

the villas’ rectangular volumes are at times separated by vertical elements
the main living spaces are located on the ground level, adjoining a small yard and pool. the open plan ground floor is minimal to the max, and is defined by clean white surfaces and an open plan living and dining space. generous glass paneling provides ample views of the maritime surroundings, and a mixture of pendant and miniature spotlight luminaries are used to light the space. interior atriums, large openings and shaded surfaces add to the feeling of space within the villas.

simple geometric shapes — squares, rectangles and straight lines — interact to express a firmly delineated envelope
a cantilevered stairwell leads to the upper storey, where the bedrooms are located. subtle furnishings and a scenic outdoor terrace add to the feeling of relaxed luxury that is seen throughout the site, with contemporary materials and geometric simplicity contributing to a synthesis which is in constant dialogue between the open and the confined.

the main living spaces are located on the ground level, adjoining a small yard and pool

a cantilevered stairwell leads to the bedrooms

an open plan is maintained throughout the ground floor level

a mixture of spot- and pendant-lighting is used to illuminate the space

subtle furnishings and a scenic outdoor terrace add to the feeling of relaxed luxury

contemporary materials and geometric simplicity contribute to a synthesis of constant dialogue

tubli villas — general plan

south elevation
project info:
architectural design – interior design by: anna garefalaki/ 3+ architecture
structural engineering: george sirigonakis
3D visualization: kostas pamfilos / helix imageworks 3D visualization
assistant architect (student): eleni chatzimichail
location: manama, bahrain
total building area: 700m2
site area: 880m2
year of study completion: 2016
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