Located in Marea, Studio MBM founder Maurizio Bianchi Mattioli built a villa residence that blends into the beach landscape. At first glance, the architecture approaches landscape and landscape approaches architecture. This stunning villa is just outside the ancient city of Batroun, fifty kilometers up the Lebanese coast from Beirut. Previously this location was a Syrian army camp that was inaccessible to civilians, until now sixty units were built arranged in four terraced rows. Walking from the sea, you’ll head straight for a private beachfront home followed by a variety of smaller residences, townhouses, and condos.
Thanks to their natural environment, the villas are organized into a complex geographic fold of triangles that continue across materials and surfaces. The entire building features a folding green roof that becomes an extension of the landscape, as the undulating topography drops down to the sea. A network of paths winds its way around the block of villas, resembling a town in the hills. For the circulation of vehicle access, it is temporarily diverted to a network of underground parking spaces, which can be accessed from above the site.
Sixty units is not a small amount for a villa. But despite the density of the site, the units have substantial privacy and amenities. It features double living room, terrace and private pool. Even the smallest of condos has a patio or rooftop deck. Certain parts of the villa are open to residents sharing access to the public clubhouse on the beach. Get inspired!
photography: Bruce Damonte
architect: Maurizio Bianchi Mattioli
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