Zen House Domus Privata by Drew Gilbert is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum in Architectura Competition Category.

ArgentumArchitectura· 2025

Zen House Domus Privata

by Drew Gilbert

Client: Drew Gilbert Design

Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum Winner in Architectura 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 Domus Privata

Domus Zen exemplum limatum formae minimalisticae est, ubi lux, aqua, et spatium habitationem tranquillam coharentemque conformant. Piscina dispositionem domus stabilit, olea praesens punctum naturale principale afferens. Electio materiarum considerata lineaeque architectonicae purae sensum claritatis quietisque sustinent. Quodque singulare ad sensum tranquillitatis intentae confert, ubi nihil superfluum apparet et omnia locum suum habent. Hoc modo, Domus Zen refugium tranquillum fit, cum incolis suis circumiectioneque naturali congruens.

The Recognition

About the Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum

Zen House Domus Privata victor est Praemii A' Design Award Argenteum, honoris eximie amplissimi formis summi generis, pulchris et conspicuis dati. Victores Argenti opera valde splendida et creandi ingenio praedita sunt, quae praestantem peritiam, talentum et acumen auctorum suorum ostendunt. Exspectatur Zen House Domus Privata opus mirabile, exemplare, valde professionale et penitus novum fore. Haec forma Argento victa inventum notabile et admiratum est, quod ad fines artis, scientiae, formandi rationis et technologiae promovendos confert. Zen House Domus Privata creatio est, quam multi invident, quae cupiditates excitat, sensus bonos affert et admirationem miraculumque movet.

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