MET architects basel builds a weekend house on a lebanese mountainside

nestled between century-old pine trees in ras el maten, lebanon, MET architects basel has designed a weekend house and independent guesthouse for a private client. located on the western flank of a mountain, the two new properties seek to maximize the elevated site with expanses of glazing and a luxurious infinity swimming pool.

all images ©  ieva saudargaité

the construction site for the weekend house was chosen in the middle of the site in order to maximize the view without having to clear the historic pine trees. it consists of a ground floor and a basement that is half buried in the terrain. the overhanging, slightly sloping roof, with a surface area of 20×12 m, interrupts the natural slope of the topography. the west façade of the house stands on a retaining wall of natural stone, which extends around the house to the east side and encompasses a slightly elevated green area.

inside the pavilion-like house, the program is kept to a minimum. two enclosed volumes interrupt the open space: the first contains the kitchen, guest toilet and wardrobe, the second separates the living area from the sleeping area and contains the bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe. the height of the space is determined by the tapered roof, from the high ceilings in the dining area to the intimate and cozy bedroom.

the guest house with pool is located downhill, at the edge of the land. it is embedded in the natural topography and blends seamlessly into the hilly landscape with its natural stone façade and the subtle openings towards the valley. averted from the weekend house, the guest rooms offer visitors maximum privacy. the 20 meter lap pool is situated on the roof of the guest house. with its infinity edge on two sides, it offers a panoramic view over the valley and the surrounding mountains.

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project info:

project name: house SK

program: weekend house and guesthouse 

location: ras el maten, lebanon

client: private

architect: MET architects basel

gross floor area: 8072.93 ft2 (750 m2)

year: 2019

photography: ieva saudargaité