Inside the House of Courtyards: Where Vernacular Design Meets Modern Interior Living in Dubai
A deep dive into the interiors and architectural harmony of Studio VDGA’s courtyard residence in the UAE.
In a city renowned for pushing architectural boundaries, where glistening skyscrapers and futuristic structures punctuate the skyline, House of Courtyards by Studio VDGA Architects offers a refreshing contrast — a design rooted in tradition yet unapologetically contemporary. Located in Dubai, the villa seamlessly blends vernacular desert architecture with modern-day living, creating an interior and architectural language that pays homage to the UAE’s rich heritage while addressing the practicalities and desires of today.
Pune-based Studio VDGA, renowned for its philosophy of crafting "Timeless Meaningful Spaces," has meticulously designed this residence as a faithful representation of traditional Emirati architecture, reminiscent of the 19th-century merchant homes that once defined the region. The result is a home that is both introspective and outward-looking, striking the perfect balance between privacy, luxury, and climatic sensibility.
Click to read more about the architecture of the project in our extended feature: Inside the House of Courtyards: Where Vernacular Design Meets Modern Interior Living in Dubai
A Masterclass in Contextual Interior Design
Step inside the House of Courtyards, and the architectural narrative flows effortlessly into the interiors. The design team has intentionally kept the material palette pared down and understated, allowing the architecture and natural surroundings to take centre stage. Rough Indian stone forms the backbone of both the exterior and interior spaces, offering a texture that resonates with the historic mud-brick structures of the desert.
The layout is a labyrinthine journey of discovery. Across its 30,500-square-foot plot, the villa offers a rich interplay of public, semi-private, and private spaces, all woven together through a series of courtyards, water features, and quiet breathing zones. This ingenious floorplan ensures that each area within the home feels connected to the outdoors — a vital design choice considering Dubai’s climate.
Interiors Rooted in Tradition, Tailored for Modern Life
Upon entering through two towering walls, visitors are immediately greeted by the Fountain Court, home to a majestic olive tree and a serene water feature. This space connects directly to the family room and guest lounge, setting a tone of calm luxury that resonates throughout the villa.
The heart of the home lies within the gourmet kitchen, strategically nestled between two prominent courtyards. Here, functionality meets tradition. Behind the main kitchen lies a traditional Indian kitchen, complete with a rustic chulha (stove), evoking the simplicity of rural Indian homes. This thoughtful detail is a nod to the client's cultural roots while serving the needs of a modern family.
The formal dining, living areas, and ceremonial spaces follow, flanked by smaller courtyards filled with aloe, yucca, and cacti — subtle yet impactful references to the region's arid landscape. Natural materials such as corten steel, white marble in its raw finish, and off-white crushed stones add to the villa's earthy palette, further blurring the line between inside and outside.
Living with Nature: The Courtyard Concept
Courtyards are not merely decorative features but integral to the home’s environmental strategy. Each courtyard introduces dappled sunlight, natural ventilation, and visual serenity into the living spaces. Mature trees, wooden lattice screens, and carefully designed shading devices ensure that these spaces remain usable throughout the year.
The upper level of the villa is a sanctuary of privacy. The master suite and children's bedrooms all open to views of the lush backyard lawn or intimate succulent courtyards, with bathrooms designed to extend into private green spaces. Even the gym, steam room, and family lounge on this floor adhere to the residence’s ethos of understated luxury.
Interiors that Respond to Climate
Climatic sensitivity is evident throughout. Minimal openings on the sun-baked southern facade and strategically placed windows on the north, east, and west ensure optimal light and ventilation. Turret-like structures, reminiscent of traditional Iranian barjeels, punctuate the design, introducing diffused natural light while shielding interiors from harsh glare.
The basement level continues the villa’s seamless flow. Here, a spacious home theatre, lounge, and hidden swimming pool surrounded by a series of arches provide entertainment and respite, with the pool cleverly tucked away to maintain privacy while offering cooling relief.
All photography by Ema Peter, courtesy of Studio VDGA
A Home with Soul
House of Courtyards is more than just a residence; it’s a testament to the value of cultural identity in interior design and architecture. In a city that often prioritises spectacle, this villa quietly celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and climate-responsive living. It offers an alternative — a design that is understated yet powerful, rooted in the past yet firmly suited for contemporary life.
For those who appreciate architecture and interiors that go beyond surface beauty, House of Courtyards offers an authentic, meaningful living experience in the heart of Dubai.
