We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Joy Alexandre Harb about their original and creative house design work. Joy Alexandre Harb is an award-winning architectural designer, that makes our world a better place with their original house works.
Joy Alexandre Harb ("JAH") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Villa Olympea house. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
JAH : The design of Villa Olympea centers around harmonizing with nature while creating an elegant, functional living environment. The primary inspiration comes from blending contemporary architecture with natural surroundings, emphasizing open spaces, greenery, and light-filled interiors. The internal green patio, visible from most areas, represents a sanctuary that merges indoor and outdoor elements seamlessly.
JAH : The main focus was on creating a tranquil and aesthetically captivating space that promotes a connection with nature while providing comfort and luxury. By incorporating the central patio and using sustainable materials, the design aims to foster serenity and a sense of retreat, enhancing the residents' quality of life.
JAH : Future plans may include adapting this design for different contexts or scaling similar principles into larger projects. Leveraging its success, the design could inspire future works that emphasize biophilic architecture, promoting wellbeing through thoughtful integration of greenery and modernity.
JAH : The design process spanned several months, from initial conceptualization to finalized drawings. This time included research, collaboration with specialists, and multiple refinements to ensure the design met its aesthetic, functional, and environmental goals.
JAH : Villa Olympea was a commissioned project, driven by the client's desire for a contemporary yet serene living space. The concept aligns with my personal philosophy of integrating nature and architecture, making it both a professional and personal fulfillment.
JAH : The design is specific to this project and client, but its principles could inspire future projects. Any potential adaptations or rights would be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on interest and alignment with my architectural vision.
JAH : This type of work stems from my passion for creating spaces that enhance human connection with their environment. Designing a villa allowed me to experiment with open, green-centered layouts and sustainable architectural elements.
JAH : Influences include Zaha Hadid's bold architectural gestures and the minimalist elegance of Tadao Ando, as well as vernacular architectural practices that integrate nature and light.
JAH : The target customer is someone seeking a luxurious yet peaceful residential space, valuing modern aesthetics and a strong connection to nature.
JAH : The distinctiveness lies in the interplay between L-shaped structures and the internal green patio, creating a seamless dialogue between architecture and nature. The design prioritizes light, airflow, and views, setting it apart from traditional villa layouts.
JAH : The name Villa Olympea evokes a sense of grandeur and serenity, inspired by the mythological Mount Olympus, reflecting a space where beauty and comfort reign supreme.
JAH : Tools included advanced architectural software like AutoCAD, and 3D modeling programs such as SketchUp and Rhino, complemented by rendering software like V-Ray to visualize the concept.
JAH : The internal green patio is the standout feature, offering a private natural sanctuary visible from all angles, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
JAH : The project involved collaboration with structural engineers, landscape architects, and sustainability consultants to ensure a cohesive and functional outcome.
JAH : Technology played a crucial role in creating detailed models, ensuring precise execution, and optimizing the villa's environmental performance, from energy efficiency to natural ventilation.
JAH : Yes, site analysis informed the design, including sunlight patterns, prevailing winds, and the topography. Research also focused on sustainable materials and biophilic design principles to create a health-promoting space.
JAH : Challenges included ensuring structural integrity while maintaining openness and incorporating sustainable features without compromising aesthetics.
JAH : The decision was driven by the design's potential to inspire and its alignment with the competition's focus on innovation, sustainability, and aesthetics.
JAH : I deepened my understanding of integrating natural elements into modern architecture, emphasizing the importance of site-specific solutions and environmental considerations.
JAH : The essence of Villa Olympea is about more than aesthetics; it embodies a lifestyle. It’s a statement that modern architecture can be both luxurious and in harmony with the natural world, setting a benchmark for future projects.
