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Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Calypso House in Jouneih Bay, Lebanon by SOMA ArchitectsJune 11th, 2016 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: SOMA Architects New York-based architects SOMA delivered an outstanding private residence located on the north side of Jouneih Bay, Lebanon. It is a significant milestone for a project whose design plunges into the sea, Calypso hovers over the water like a crystal emerging from the rocks. Nestled on a small strip of rugged rocks between the main road and the sea, the form of the house is derived directly from this ragged landscape.  Image Courtesy © SOMA Architects
 Image Courtesy © SOMA Architects The project weaves together architecture, interior architecture, lighting and landscape in a unified whole that manifest as a sculpture that fits perfectly into the site. This is translated into three distinct levels, which manifest themselves as glass strips folding out of the surrounding rocks. The strips expand and contract, crafting each space to its particular program, and are sculpted with extreme precision to allow for maximum views and open terraces on all levels for the living areas.  Image Courtesy © SOMA Architects Because the entrance is dictated by an upper road, the program of the house is inverted from the typological residence. Upon entering on the upper level, one immediately descends to the main living areas. In order to magnify the views and expansive space, the ceiling is sloped up towards the glass, and lined with teak slats which draw ones eye out towards the sea. The lower levels house the most private functions including the bedrooms and family rooms.  Image Courtesy © SOMA Architects The eastern Mediterranean is frequently visited by powerful winter storms, and it is not uncommon for waves to exceed 5 meters. The solution to defend against these waves was to deflect the waves using the continuous wrap around deck at the bedroom level. This feature not only provides uninterrupted outdoor space, but also is engineered as a wave breaker to deflect the waves. The second line of defense is the glass itself: a patented system of laminated glazing supported by structural steel, capable of withstanding the strongest waves of these winter storms. The end result of these design and engineering strategies is both powerful and iconic, while elegant residence, rich in features, and seamlessly integrated into the landscape. About SOMA International architecture firm SOMA, headquartered in New York, was founded by Michel Abboud. With its focus on incorporating craft, digital technologies and environmental responsibility, the firm’s designs and work have attracted critical acclaim for their boundary pushing nature. SOMA’s work is rising around the world today—in New York, Dubai, Lebanon and other international markets—with remarkable offerings of luxury hotel, condominium and mixed-use developments that underscore the firm’s cutting edge appeal.
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Tags: Jouneih Bay, Lebanon Category: House |
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