Private Villa in Malta
Architectural design and drawings, 2017-2018
Residence on a slope, a modern family retreat
Plot area: 260 m²
Construction: 2019-2021
Located on a hillside in the southern part of Dohuk city, this modern residence has a striking double view - towards Mount Zawa to the south and offers panoramic views of the cityscape to the north. Designed in 2019, the house was conceived for a family of three - a mother and her two children. Interestingly, the client is the daughter of a former client for whom I designed a house in 2005, creating a continuity of architectural dialog across generations.
From the outset, the project was shaped by the specific requirements of the client. Foremost was the need to cultivate a sense of privacy while maintaining openness within the home. A clear spatial hierarchy was established: the guest and family areas are intentionally separated, yet designed to seamlessly connect during large family gatherings. This flexible layout ensures privacy without compromising hospitality.
The residence extends over three floors. The ground floor has an open but defined living area, comprising a family living room, kitchen and en-suite guest room. Each room extends towards the surrounding garden and the expansive views beyond, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that bathe the interior in natural light.
On the second floor, the private spaces accommodate the daily life of the family. The children enjoy dedicated bedrooms along with a multifunctional playroom designed for recreation and study. This floor emphasizes comfort and personal space while maintaining visual contact with the landscape.
The basement houses the more functional and recreational features, including a garage, storage room and an indoor pool designed for year-round use.
Materiality plays a crucial role in the aesthetic and functional story of the project. The façade embraces simplicity and sustainability, with carefully selected wood and granite highlighting the balconies and main entrance. Internally, warm wooden floors contrast with predominantly plaster walls, chosen for their thermal insulation properties and ease of maintenance.
Ultimately, the design reflects a balance between openness and intimacy, modernity and warmth, creating a home that not only meets the client's needs but also resonates with its surrounding context.
