H House
H-House, a seaside residence designed for a young family of five, is a study in procession and approach, meticulously crafted to enhance the overall living experience. Located on an extensive property, most of the area is dedicated to landscaping and greenery, providing a serene environment.
The decision to design the layout in the shape of the letter H allows for maximum functionality and views, creating internalized courtyards and spaces both towards the sea and the opposing side.
The western elevation of H-House juxtaposes beautifully with its seaside counterpart. While this side is serene and monolithic, providing a sense of calm and privacy, the other elevation opens up to breathtaking sea views. This intentional contrast enhances the overall experience of the house, making each journey through the space unique.
The ground floor contains formal and public functions such as living spaces, services, kitchen, and dining. The first floor houses all the junior suites, with the master level above, while the rooftop is dedicated to a public terrace for guests and entertainment. The house is oriented east towards the sea, with the setting sun illuminating it from the western side throughout the day.
The journey through H-House begins at the drop-off and parking courtyard just outside the plan's perimeter. Moving through the slits between volumes, visitors arrive at the serene entry courtyard with its reflecting pools, guiding them towards the main entrance, which frames a stunning view of the seashore. Hovering above the main entry, the private bedroom floors are sheltered by an expansive Meshrabiya screen, its intricate patterns juxtaposed against the muted walls of the two volumes beneath, which house essential functions including services and office. The final moment unfolds at the beach-side courtyard, where a terrace offers breathtaking vistas of the sea, embraced by living and office wings that extend into the beach.
Collaborators:
Balzar Arquitectos, BSARQ and IAS Engineering