Drew Gilbert's inspiration for Villa Estelle stemmed from the owner's desire for a luxurious living experience that also respects the environment. The villa is a perfect representation of the owner's personality, with every detail meticulously curated to reflect their taste. The design incorporates sustainable principles, smart home technology, and high-quality materials, all set in a stunning location.
What sets Villa Estelle apart is its unique blend of luxury and sustainability. The villa incorporates solar panels, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting systems, significantly reducing its environmental impact and energy costs. Smart home technology allows for remote control of lighting, temperature, and security, providing an exceptional living experience. The use of high-quality materials like marble, hardwood, and natural stone ensures durability, while bespoke furnishings and layouts offer customization options.
The realization of Villa Estelle involved a combination of advanced computational design techniques and traditional design principles. Parametric modeling was used to generate and optimize the structure's geometry, resulting in a highly efficient and structurally sound design. Extensive research was conducted on sustainable materials and systems, leading to the incorporation of features like solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
The villa spans 40,000 square feet and includes a basement, ground, first, and roof. The design project, which began in 2022 and concluded in 2023, was located in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The design process involved a mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including literature reviews, surveys, interviews, and observations.
Despite the challenges faced during the design process, such as balancing the client's preferences with sustainability and innovation requirements, and adhering to the client's budget, Villa Estelle emerged as a triumph of design. The villa was awarded Silver in the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2023, a testament to its outstanding design and innovation.
In conclusion, Villa Estelle is more than just a luxury villa; it's a reflection of the owner's taste and lifestyle. It's a testament to the possibilities of sustainable design, smart home technology, and high-quality materials. The villa, with its bespoke furnishings and exclusive location, offers an exceptional living experience, making it a deserving recipient of the prestigious A' Design Award.
Project Designers: Drew Gilbert
Image Credits: Drew Gilbert
Project Team Members: Drew Gilbert
Project Name: Villa Estelle
Project Client: Drew Gilbert