Villa with a view
Ahmed Ebrahim and Farid Esmaeil, two young architects, redefine the way houses are designed by blending valued tradition with practical modernity. Rajeev Nair met them
Photograph: Mohammed Rasheed
X Architects is how Ahmed Ebrahim and Farid Esmaeil call their partnership. X as in unknown. X as in unexplored. X as in the first step towards a new theory.
And theirs is a camaraderie that goes back to college. Architecture graduates from the American University in Sharjah, the two come together on a mission: Create a distinct identity to housing solutions in the region by incorporating valued traditions into modern architecture.
That is not an easy challenge. But they realise that it is a task they must take up for the simple reason of preserving the region’s traditional architectural principles, which are fast dying.
Villas and houses are becoming concrete jungles. Wind towers are becoming museum items. Thatched roofs and cool courtyards have no takers. And the windows open to walls. Where did the soothing winds go? Where did sunshine disappear? And aren’t we talking about living in the Gulf?
Ebrahim and Esmaeil are taking their mission back to the basics. But at no point are they turning their back to modernity. They value the principles of architectural advances and are eager to put them into practice. But first should come an understanding of the region’s socio-cultural requirements.
There are many concerns that the two address in their housing plans: A private entrance for women is one; a water tub in the courtyard, a majlis, roof gardens; walls that don’t close to sunshine. “Every aspect is carefully considered to deliver the traditional style of Arab living in a modern environment,” says Ebrahim.
He would know. A young UAE national, fresh off college, he has always been eager to put back some vital basics to houses. “Our architecture solves many issues including that of offering privacy to the women,” adds Esmaeil, who was equally enthusiastic in pursuing a career in architecture, wherein ideas matter most.
Incorporating the spatial aspects of traditional architecture, the two also take into account the climatic conditions prevailing in the region. “It is important to understand that housing must respect nature,” they say. “Unless this recognition happens, homes will remain concrete structures, not meaningful dwelling places.”
They are surprised to see modern technology fast replacing traditional architectural principles without offering a viable alternative. “You see a lot of villas but their space utilisation and respect to the needs of the individuals who will live there is scanty,” says Ebrahim.
Though the two are trekking out on a new path, they have the experience of working with renowned firms to fall back on. “We named our firm, X, because it stands for the unknown. Through X Architects, we are putting forth a new style that is an alternative theory of architecture for the UAE,” says Esmaeil.
Recommending the use of sustainable building materials, if and when available, the two youngsters revel in the challenge of providing more open spaces and airy rooms without losing out on the privacy issue. Their plans give scope for the womenfolk to enjoy the facilities of their home while also enjoying the simple pleasures offered by the outdoors: A view, for one.
Ebrahim and Esmaeil have impressed many in the region through their radically different approach to architecture, and one of their dream projects is currently taking shape in Dubai. “We are not asking to ignore the comforts of the new technology. The high-rises and huge houses are all a 30 to 40-year-old phenomenon in the region. Earlier, the emphasis was on comfort by using indigenous materials. We are seeking to recreate the same level of comfort that people enjoyed despite the lack of hi-fi electronic appliances,” says Esmaeil.
They leave the fruits of their work to time. “Ultimately, the test of the success of an idea is time, and we are confident that with our projects we are blending the past and the future for a perfect present.”
