Skyhaven Residence | Lebanon | Batroun Region

Modern Architectural Masterpiece in Batroun Region

Located on a stunning hill in Gumaa, Lebanon, Skyhaven Residence is a contemporary architectural masterpiece that harmoniously blends into the natural environment. With a panoramic view of the emerald valley and sea views, this 740 sq meter house is designed as a two-level residence where the client and his parents live.

Design Inspired by Nature

Considering the dramatic topography, the residence looks like a modern villa terrace, following the natural forms of the site in the shape of a curved arc. This organic form maximizes visual connection with the landscape while minimizing ground impact. The design consists of two levels that extend from the cliff edge and are supported by concrete cantilevers, creating a floating effect above the valley.

Spatial Configuration: Blurring Boundaries Between Interior and Exterior

The lower level, characterized by a solid concrete mass, is intended for private rooms. Bedrooms for both families are in separate zones but connected by a meditation room, a cozy space inspired by Japanese design and equipped with a wooden platform surrounded by greenery. Above it, the upper level represents a transparent and well-lit space, where fully glazed relaxation areas and open kitchens blur the line between inside and outside. Sliding aluminum panels provide full openness, enhancing the feeling of living on an elevated balcony terrace.

The semi-open entrance also serves as a multi-functional communication zone, encouraging unexpected family encounters.

Landscape and Architectural Harmony

The arrival platform features a vast pool visually blending with the horizon, with parking hidden underneath. A bridge connects the pool to a covered lounge on the roof, offering another indoor-outdoor experience.

The landscape design reflects the geometric logic of the house and natural topography. It transitions to terraced lawns leading into surrounding grassland vegetation. A semi-buried office pavilion is integrated under the main terrace, with a green roof and concealed access hatch. On the opposite side, the landscape transitions into agricultural terraces, reinforced with corten steel and traditional stone fencing, creating a dialogue between modern architecture and traditional farming methods.

Eco and Innovative Construction

The residence is built using a flexible structural system combining steel and concrete. The lower level features an internal clean concrete shell and an external corrugated concrete facade system, giving the building a rough mineral appearance while serving as a backdrop for rosemary cascades. The upper level has a light steel structure, covered with white composite aluminum panels, ensuring both structural efficiency and modern aesthetics.

Life Off the Grid: Self-Sufficient Residence

Skyhaven Residence is designed as an efficient and self-sufficient home with a photovoltaic system ensuring full autonomy on sunny days. This commitment to sustainability enhances the residence's identity as a harmonious sanctuary, seamlessly combining modern architecture with the pristine beauty of the Batroun valley in Lebanon.

Photos © Wissam Shaya