Terrace • Ashjar E1, Ashjar, Al Barari, Dubai, UAE
A massive, unpolished basalt slab anchors the terrace. Overhead, a delicate silk canopy floats. Seating features exposed concrete bases paired with plush velvet cushions. The floor divides into rough stone pavers and smooth, dark polished concrete sections.
Lighting deeply shadows coarse textures. It intensely reflects off polished surfaces. Movement through the space creates constant tactile and visual shifts. This design pits weight against lightness, roughness against smoothness.
This room forces a direct, physical encounter with material opposition.
Design Philosophy
This design employs Material Honesty, revealing the inherent qualities of each surface. Material Contrast creates dynamic tension between elements. Rough textures oppose smooth finishes directly. Hendiadys expresses singular concepts through dual material forms.
Spatial Narrative
The eye immediately draws to the central, unpolished basalt slab. A circulation path guides movement across rough-hewn stone and smooth concrete zones. You sit on concrete bases paired with plush velvet, experiencing direct tactile opposition.
Light Study
Morning sun casts sharp, defined shadows from the basalt, highlighting its rough edges. Evening light strategically focuses, creating deep shadows that absorb into matte surfaces. It intensely reflects off polished concrete and gleams from the silk canopy.
Living Vignette
You run your hand across the cool, rough basalt before settling into the deep velvet cushion. The smooth concrete floor feels cool beneath your bare feet.
Material Palette
Unpolished basalt rock slab: This stone feels rough and cool, retaining its raw texture and enduring for centuries.
High-thread-count outdoor silk fabric: The silk feels smooth and light, softening with age and exposure while maintaining its subtle sheen.
Exposed architectural concrete: Concrete feels solid and cool, developing a unique patina over time and remaining structurally robust.
