The UK House, designed by Ulema and Ulema Architecture, sits at the highest point of a 3,470 sqm terraced plot. True to its name, the house features a rain trench and cistern system that collects, filters, and reuses rainwater for irrigation throughout its landscape. The large garden features a variety of elements, including olive trees and lavender shrubs, while the smaller garden introduces a lively collection of roosters, hens, peacocks, canaries, sheep, and dogs. Together, these elements create a multisensory outdoor experience.
Preserving the site’s natural vegetation, the design embraces a rich landscape scheme with aromatic plants, seasonal flowers, rose gardens, vegetable plots, fruit trees, and lavender fields. At the top of the plot, a panoramic living terrace overlooks the surroundings, establishing an organic dialogue between interior and exterior spaces.
The façade, clad in Foça stone, is paired with high-ceilinged interiors where the wooden roof structure is prominently expressed, creating both visual harmony and aesthetic appeal. These architectural gestures enhance the relationship between the building and its natural surroundings, thereby reinforcing the project’s overall coherence.
The UK House blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Stone walls, timber structural elements, and wooden cladding add warmth and character, while cultivating an inviting atmosphere. The fireplace in the living room forms the heart of the home, serving as a cozy gathering point. Interiors are enriched with warm-toned furniture and décor, amplifying the sense of intimacy.
In the kitchen, the countertop is crafted from porcelain stoneware, chosen for its durability and hygiene. Its luminous surface enhances the bright atmosphere of the space, inviting culinary creativity. This refined surface contrasts sharply with the earthy warmth of the adjacent dining area, where textured wood floors and detailing bring depth and character. Here, the natural grains and tones of wood create a balanced and welcoming ambiance.
Upstairs, the study and bedrooms are defined by stone walls meticulously finished to enhance tactile appeal while retaining rustic authenticity. Exposed wooden beams contribute to a sense of openness, and large windows flood the spaces with natural light, highlighting the simplicity of handcrafted furniture. In the study, a wooden desk is strategically placed beside the window to maximize daylight. Neutral tones and natural materials unify the bedrooms and bathrooms, each carefully designed with its own distinct character yet forming part of a holistic architectural language.
