Villa SKV
LOCATION: ABU DHABI, UAE
USE: RESIDENTIAL
SCOPE: FAĆADE LIGHTING DESIGN
The external volumetric arrangement, with its asymmetric geometry of straight lines, squares and rectangles, resembles a masterpiece from the De Stijl artistic movement. As lighting architects, this was our main consideration when proposing the facade lighting design scheme. Light, in terms of visual energy, was strategically located on edges, grooves and planes, to show the gesture of the different masses that compose the villa, without overlooking the functional lighting requirements.
The technical challenge consisted in combining the architecture with the lighting equipment, to give the feeling of light being emitted from within the building and not projected onto it. Special coves, slots and niches were designed to conceal the lighting fixtures and hide them from sight, stressing the visual concept of radiant objects.
The silhouette effect was a useful and creative tool to complement our overall lighting strategy. An object is backlit to appear dark against a light background, revealing the object’s shape. This enables to separate subject from background, creating a deeper perception of space. In practical terms, the diffuse reflected light serves as functional light for orientation and circulation purposes.