M2H DESIGN STUDIO, Kuwait, 2011-2017, Principal Architect
This house is comprised of a two courtyards that link together in basement level. Allows for internal air circulation and shading during harsh hot seasons. the basement contains a lap pool, gym, and private living space. the ground level houses reception space, service quarters, guest rooms. the first-floor quarters are dedicated to the four children, while the strategic penthouse remains for the parents. In order to respect the family's privacy, the views from the house are almost entirely introverted within the designed courtyards. views are directed to the reflective pool on the ground level, the flowering tree centralized near the entrance, the pool in the basement, or the landscaped terrace on the penthouse floor. special attention was paid to the external envelope of the buildings, which have 50 cm sandwich-paneled walls. the density and efficient insulation used within these walls achieves a high thermal resistance value that protects the house from heat gain and reduces the dependency on air conditioning units throughout the year. thermal solar heating is designed on the roof, in order to supply hot water for the building. besides, two wind turbines are located on the north-eastern part of the plot to feed the entire outdoor and landscaping electrical need. the designer tried to maximize windows facing toward the courtyard and minimizing windows on the east, west, and south external shell. all windows are double-glazed with low-e filters and movable aluminum shading devices. significantly, the eco-v2 allows for north winds to circulate underneath the building, be cooled by the reflecting pool and basement pool, and then rise from the back court. this achieves a highly effective passive cooling system for the house, especially the main living space in the basement level. residents of the eco-v2 villa can rest assured that they will live in a positive, eco-friendly, and healthy environment.