灯笼屋丨阿尔及利亚谢里夫丨Atelier Messaoudi Architects

Architects:Atelier Messaoudi Architects

Area:420m²

Year:2022

Photographs:Reda Ait Saada

Manufacturers:Geberit,Knauf,Lafarge

Lead Architects:Lounes Messaoudi, Mahouche Amina, Mahmoudi Ahmed, Mezghiche Tinhinene, Zineb Kebab , Reda Ait Saada, Abdennour Hamaida

Program / Use / Building Function:Private House

City:Chlef

Country:Algeria

Our approach was to redesign the volume, to give an aspect of a contemporary Mediterranean house, and optimize the spatial configuration according to local culture and practices, without demolishing the existing structure or making major costly changes. First, we integrated the isolated exterior stairs into the global volume. Then, we resized the windows to enhance their proportions. The massiveness and monotony of the house were reduced by incorporating a floral-patterned mashrabiya, which simultaneously provides security and privacy for the occupants.

On the first floor, we created a more intimate gathering space for the family, surrounded by the different bedrooms. The married son occupies the main bedroom with a view of the garden, while the other bedrooms are dedicated to the youngest. By eliminating the sloped roof, which is unnecessary for the area's climate,  we created a spacious terrace for relaxation, dining, and meeting under the Mediterranean climate, especially during summer nights.

The interior was designed as a total work of art, encompassing everything from the bedroom furniture, kitchen, bathrooms, and dressing room to the wall art photography. The white, sober spaces are warmed by the use of wood for the doors, windows, and furniture. The wall art photography adds life and unique atmospheres to each room. The vaulted hammam space is adorned with mosaics, and the floor is crafted from white marble.

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