Zen House Privatbolig by Drew Gilbert is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award i Sølv in Arkitektur-, Bygnings- og Konstruktionsdesign Competition Category.

SølvArkitektur· 2025

Zen House Privatbolig

by Drew Gilbert

Client: Drew Gilbert Design

A' Design Award i Sølv Winner in Arkitektur Category

19,170

Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #171500

View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Zen House Privatbolig

Zen House er et raffineret eksempel på minimalistisk design, hvor lys, vand og rum former et roligt og sammenhængende bomiljø. En pool forankrer boligens layout, suppleret af et oliventræ, der skaber et naturligt fokuspunkt. Gennemtænkte materialevalg og rene arkitektoniske linjer understøtter en fornemmelse af klarhed og ro. Hver detalje bidrager til en følelse af målrettet stilhed, hvor intet virker overdrevet, og alt har sin plads. På denne måde bliver Zen House et stille tilflugtssted, afstemt med både sine beboere og de naturlige omgivelser.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award i Sølv

Zen House Privatbolig er vinder af A' Design Award i Sølv, en usædvanligt prestigefyldt anerkendelse, der tildeles designs i topklasse, som er pragtfulde og imponerende. Sølvvinderne er enormt geniale og overordentlig kreative værker, der illustrerer deres designeres fremragende ekspertise, talent og skarpsindighed. Zen House Privatbolig forventes at være et vidunderligt udstillingsværk, der er bemærkelsesværdigt professionelt og dybt innovativt. Dette design, der har vundet A' Design Award i Sølv, er en højst bemærkelsesværdig, beundret opfindelse, som gavner og flytter grænserne for kunst, videnskab, design og teknologi. Zen House Privatbolig er en skabelse, som mange misunder, og som vækker begær, bringer positive følelser og antænder forundring og undren.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: This bespoke villa is uniquely immersed in water, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere. Upon entering, the pool immediately comes into view, centered around a beautiful olive tree, setting the tone for a seamless indoor outdoor connection. As one moves further into the home, the living space appears to float within the pool, reinforcing the sense of tranquility and exclusivity.
Dimensions & Packaging: 10,000 square feet BUA, ground, first floor, and rooftop
Tags: Villa, Sustainable Design, Smart Home Technology, Minimalism, High Quality Materials, Bespoke, Energy Efficiency, Exceptional Living Experience, Innovation
Production Technology: The project was developed using state of the art design tools, including lighting analysis software to optimize natural illumination and ambiance. Extensive research on sustainable materials and systems informed key design decisions, incorporating features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact.
Design Challenge: The greatest challenge in this project was balancing the client’s vision with sustainability and innovation. The design had to reflect the client’s taste and lifestyle while integrating high performance, eco conscious materials and systems. Additional challenges included navigating material availability, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing the home’s performance within Dubai’s climate conditions all while maintaining the architectural purity of the design.
Research: The research behind this project delved into the nuances of minimalist architectural design, focusing on materiality, form generation, and spatial composition to authentically capture the essence of minimalism. This involved a comprehensive study of volumetric play, emphasizing how spaces interact with light, water, and the surrounding environment. The study also explored climate responsive design strategies, leveraging natural cooling techniques and passive energy solutions to enhance comfort while reducing the building’s ecological footprint.
Inspiration: This signature villa is designed around curated moments of paradise from the way natural light penetrates the interior to the carefully selected materials and the pool that serves as the heart of the home. The design embraces minimalism, offering clean, elegant lines while maximizing enjoyment. Creative freedom defines every aspect, ensuring that the home is both a tranquil retreat and a bold architectural statement.
Project Duration: The project started in 2024 and was completed in 2025, located in Nadd Al Shiba, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Operation Flow: The villa integrates advanced smart home systems, solar panels, and thick walls for thermal mass, ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability. The spatial flow is natural and intuitive, reinforcing the effortless elegance and beauty of the home.
Team Members: Drew Gilbert