The Pearl Chalet by HZ.MB

PROJECT BRIEF

HZ.MB Architects is a full-service consultant offering architectural and engineering solutions for exterior and interior design and site supervision. They work closely with clients to successfully see a project to its end. The Pearl Chalet at Khiran Beach, in Kuwait became a prime example for modern beach-house living. The main elements of this structure are transparency, views from all areas, water, and ultimate circulation. With maximum natural lighting and double height glass, the space is optimized with an indoor-outdoor feel.

REQUIREMENTS

• Built up area: 700 square meters
• Plot size: 30mx15m 450 square meters
• Courtyard – small gardens, 15-meter swimming pool
• Ground floor – Double height living, daily dining + open pantry, main kitchen, guest bathroom, drivers’ room
• Mezzanine – Staff area
• 1^st floor – 4 Master suites, 2 small terraces
• 2^nd floor – Master Suite with bedroom, living space, and guest bathroom, Includes large terrace

DESIGN PROCESS

Given the general plot size, and the built-up area restrictions, this design was developed with a budget in mind. Generally, the idea was to design a space that can be livable, with privacy from neighbors, and water views visible from all areas within the plot. Having direct view access to the beach, seen even from main gate entry is essential to the property type. The street elevation of the chalet has a very intricate geometrical design with minimal windows for privacy.

To obtain maximum efficiency and spatial circulation, the chalet is designed to accommodate a family and staff up to 13 people comfortably, without overextending built up area, to create balance between outdoor and indoor spaces.

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES

With Less is more in mind, the project is intended to make the occupant feel as if they are outdoor at all times. The ground floor includes 5-meter-high ceiling slide doors that create transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces.

With Technal Aluminum System materials, they were able to sustain having full glass with minimal aluminum profiles and mullions. Windows without mullion divisions merges indoor and outdoor spaces for multipurpose use while optimizing transparency which was the architect’s goal. The exterior and interior styles of the building are simplistic with mostly white walls and windows, that reflect sunset colors, washed with dynamic sunrays that change in effect as time passes.

TECHNAL aluminum folding system solutions enabled the luxury of ultimate privacy when needed, and maximum opening to sea view without having the obstruction of aluminum. The folding system is an aluminum glass solution that opens and closes entirely for whenever suitable, with ultimate ease. When open, it connects the courtyard and pool area to the sea, and when closed, it offers ultimate privacy yet still allows sunlight.

Use of Terrazzo flooring and special architectural lighting supplied by hōm interiors (HZMB sister company). By installing lighting solutions, the interiors were amplified with carefully selected floor lights, pendants, architectural and cove lights for interior and exterior spaces. Floors are sealed with a unique selection of green-colored Terrazzo applied to indoor + outdoor spaces adding a minimal yet earthy design touch.

COLLABORATING WITH TECHNAL

We are delighted to be represented by TECHNAL as customers, and very happy with the outcomes of their products and solutions. TECHNAL have been hospitable throughout the entire process from making the order, to its long-term maintenance. Products are built with basic handling functions and very efficient in beautifying the structure. The system used has good value for money, as it is budget friendly, yet comes in maximum quality.

Cowritten and edited by Haya Zubaid and Mona Al Baghli