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Zen House Residência Privada by Drew Gilbert

Zen House Residência Privada by Drew Gilbert is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award de Prata in Design de Arquitetura, Edifícios e Estruturas Competition Category.


PrataArquitetura· 2025

Zen House Residência Privada

by Drew Gilbert

Client: Drew Gilbert Design

A' Design Award de Prata Winner in Arquitetura Category

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The Design

About Zen House Residência Privada

Zen House é um exemplo refinado de design minimalista, onde luz, água e espaço moldam um ambiente de convivência calmo e coeso. Uma piscina ancora o layout da residência, complementada pela presença de uma oliveira que traz um ponto focal natural. Escolhas criteriosas de materiais e linhas arquitetônicas limpas sustentam uma sensação de clareza e quietude. Cada detalhe contribui para uma sensação de quietude intencional, onde nada parece excessivo e tudo tem seu lugar. Dessa forma, Zen House se torna um refúgio tranquilo, sintonizado tanto com seus habitantes quanto com seu entorno natural.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award de Prata

Zen House Residência Privada conquistou o A' Design Award de Prata, um reconhecimento extraordinariamente prestigiado atribuído a designs de topo de gama, deslumbrantes e impressionantes. Os vencedores da Prata são obras tremendamente brilhantes e extremamente criativas que ilustram a perícia, o talento e a acuidade excecionais dos seus designers. Espera-se que Zen House Residência Privada seja uma obra maravilhosa e de referência, notavelmente profissional e profundamente inovadora. Este design vencedor do A' Design Award de Prata é uma invenção muito notável e admirada, que beneficia e faz avançar as fronteiras da arte, da ciência, do design e da tecnologia. Zen House Residência Privada é uma criação imensamente invejada que desperta desejos, traz sentimentos positivos e faz nascer espanto e deslumbramento.

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

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