House Beyond the Veil
By Hesham Younis & Samantha Tate
In the heart of the Gulf region, amidst the shifting sands and the radiant sun, there lies a sanctuary known as the house beyond the veil. This is no ordinary home; it is a realm where modern design gracefully marries traditional Islamic principles, where openness meets privacy in a seamless dance.
Mohamed, the patriarch of a lively family, desired a living space that respected their roots and values, yet was forward-thinking in design. The result was a house of zones, each unique in their function, yet intertwined in their essence.
The home unfurls into private, semi-private, and family zones, each vast and open within its boundaries. Separating these zones are courtyards teeming with greenery, like the veins of life within the home. The natural divide not only provides privacy but also offers each zone a distinct, serene view to rest upon.
As the sun arcs its journey across the sky, it paints a constantly shifting tableau of light and shadow through the claustra screen walls. These walls, like elegant sentinels, offer an intriguing dance of light within the home while maintaining the family's desired privacy..
The children, too, revel in this haven of privacy and freedom. Behind the claustra blocks, their laughter echoes in the spacious garden. The oasis-like exterior is a cocoon of earthy colors, cascading plants, and tranquil, shaded spaces. A stark contrast to the surrounding desert, it is their personal Eden.
Inside, the dwelling cocoons its inhabitants in tranquility. The minimal lines and earthy tones of the interior design form a serene retreat. Playful shadows puncture the walls, adding a sense of depth and intrigue to the space. It is in these shared moments - the family gathered in the warm, dappled light, sharing stories and laughter - that the home truly comes alive.
In this home, privacy is not a compromise but an art. A dance between tradition and innovation, seclusion, and freedom. this oasis is a testament to a design philosophy that respects cultural roots while embracing the openness of the modern world, offering an intimate, calming, and nurturing space that the family proudly calls home