Zen House Priveewenning by Drew Gilbert is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award yn Sulver in Arsjitektuer, Gebou en Struktuerûntwerp Competition Category.

SulverArsjitektuer· 2025

Zen House Priveewenning

by Drew Gilbert

Client: Drew Gilbert Design

A' Design Award yn Sulver Winner in Arsjitektuer 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 Priveewenning

Zen House is in ferfine foarbyld fan minimalistysk ûntwerp, wêr't ljocht, wetter en romte in kalme en gearhingjende wenomjouwing foarmje. In swimbad ferankeret de yndieling fan it hûs, oanfolle troch de oanwêzigens fan in olijfbeam dy't in natuerlik fokuspunt bringt. Trochochte materiaalkarren en skjinne argitektonyske linen stypje in gefoel fan dúdlikens en rêst. Elk detail draacht by oan in gefoel fan doeloude stillens, wêr't neat oertollich fielt en alles syn plak hat. Op dizze manier wurdt Zen House in stille toeflucht, ôfstimd op sawol syn bewenners as syn natuerlike omjouwing.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award yn Sulver

Zen House Priveewenning is in winner fan de A' Design Award yn Sulver, in bûtengewoan prestisjeuze erkenning foar topûntwerpen dy't prachtich en yndrukwekkend binne. Sulverwinners binne tige briljante en ekstreem kreative wurken dy't de treflike ekspertize, it talint en de skerpsinnigens fan har ûntwerpers yllustrearje. Fan Zen House Priveewenning wurdt ferwachte dat it in prachtich foarbyldwurk is, opmerklik profesjoneel en djip ynnovatyf. Dit winnende ûntwerp fan de A' Design Award yn Sulver is in tige opfallende, bewûndere útfining dy't foardiel bringt en de grinzen fan keunst, wittenskip, ûntwerp en technology ferleget. Zen House Priveewenning is in skepping dêr't breed oerjûn wurdt, dy't winsken wekker makket, positive gefoelens bringt en ferwûnderjen en fernuvering opwekket.

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