signature villas by H+A bring desert house tradition to the sand dunes of ras al khaimah

H+A Architecture introduces desert hideaway in UAE desert

H+A Architecture reveals the Signature Villas at The Ritz Carlton Residences in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, an Al Wadi Desert hideaway for conscious travelers. Nested within a 1,235 square-meter private nature reserve, the villas combine contemporary architectural elements with the essence of traditional barasti houses (desert homes), employing clean lines, sustainable materials, and various amenities. Key to the design is the link between the establishments and the natural environment, achieved through gestures that align each villa with the natural flow of the surrounding sand dunes. Expansive landscape windows, large entrances, and courtyards allow light to diffuse naturally and immerse guests in the desert landscape. 

all images courtesy of H+A Architecture

Signature Villas draw from traditional barasti houses

H+A’s design philosophy centers on creating spaces that foster a deep connection with nature and evoke a sense of place. The villas are crafted with details inspired by the region’s flora, fauna, and traditional craft techniques, subtly referencing the Japanese philosophy of Wabi Sabi, which finds beauty in natural imperfection. Inside, handcrafted barasti timber ceilings, limestone fireplaces, and locally sourced handmade furniture create a warm atmosphere. The exteriors feature variations in tone, applied by hand, to achieve a creative, craft-led finish. According to David Lessard, Design Director at the Dubai-based studio, ‘Every opportunity to open the space out to nature was curated so that guests could feel surrounded by nature.’

Signature Villas at The Ritz Carlton Residences are a hideaway for conscious travelers

low-rise monolithic walls defeat the desert heat

Sustainability is integral to the design, with traditional construction methods such as low-rise monolithic walls that deflect heat, complemented by solar energy systems and advanced heat recovery technology. Outside, xeriscaping focuses on indigenous plants, ensuring minimal water use and a harmonious blend with the desert landscape. Lessard adds, ‘Our pragmatism, driven by technical proficiency and innovation, allows us to create cost-effective solutions that positively impact the environment, the client, and the guest. We are redefining luxury in the face of a fast-changing global situation.’

contemporary architectural elements blend with the essence of traditional barasti houses

clean lines, sustainable materials, and various amenities reflect the barasti houses tradition

key to the design is the link between the establishments and the natural environment

each villa aligns with the natural flow of the surrounding sand dunes

H+A’s design philosophy centers on creating spaces that foster a deep connection with nature

the villas feature details inspired by the region’s flora, fauna, and traditional craft techniques

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handcrafted barasti timber ceilings, limestone fireplaces, and locally sourced handmade furniture create a warm atmosphere

the exteriors feature variations in tone

low-rise monolithic walls deflect heat

project info:

name: Signature Villas, Ritz Carlton Al Wadi Desert Nature Reserve, Ras Al Khaimah
architect: H+A Architecture | @hplusa_architecture
location: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom