A Modern Oasis in Amman
Arriving in Amman, visitors notice a cityscape evolving between tradition and modernity. Contemporary brick houses, tall residential towers, and international design icons like Norman Foster’s skyscraper and projects by Zaha Hadid and Mario Botta redefine the urban identity. In this context, emerging Jordanian architect Saja Nashashibi is leaving her mark with distinctive works, the most personal being The Grey House.
Introverted Geometry in Dabouq
Nestled in the exclusive Dabouq neighborhood, The Grey House occupies 770 m² on a square plot, surrounded on all sides by neighboring villas. Its U-shaped design frames an intimate central courtyard, maintaining privacy while embracing the interior. The courtyard extends toward the rear garden, featuring a 10-meter pool, outdoor lounge, barbecue, and children's play area. Floor-to-ceiling windows dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors, blending light, landscape, and living space.
The Grey Signature
True to its name, the residence features raw concrete and high-resolution stone textures, complemented by large sliding glass panels. This interplay of solidity and transparency creates a quiet theatrical effect, where mass contrasts with openness and greenery. Architectural imagery emphasizes minimalism and realism, drawing the viewer’s attention without excess.
Interior Balance
Inside, spatial organization balances openness and privacy. The ground floor hosts an open living and dining area flowing toward the garden, while the upper floor organizes private spaces around a more intimate lounge. Bedrooms face the courtyard, ensuring seclusion without disconnecting from the central outdoor space. This design reflects Nashashibi’s thoughtful approach to blending comfort, functionality, and visual harmony.
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