Red Sea Home
Project information
Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Red Sea Coast, Saudi Arabia |
Year | 2020 |
Area | 250 m² (per unit) |
Status | Conceptual Design |
Classification | Residential, Research, Sustainability |
Style | Modern, Experimental |
Introduction
The Red Sea Home, envisioned by INJ Architects under the leadership of Ibrahim Nawaf Joharji, redefines the concept of domestic space by merging architecture with the fluidity of the sea. This project is not merely a house but a philosophical exploration of belonging, safety, and cultural connectivity. Conceived during the introspective period of the 2020 global pandemic, it responds to the human desire for a sanctuary that transcends terrestrial boundaries, offering a dynamic relationship with the natural world. Rooted in the Design and Residential categories, the project challenges conventional notions of home through a bold, imaginative lens.
Site and Contextual Analysis
Located along the pristine Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea Home engages with a unique geographical and cultural context. The Red Sea, a vital maritime corridor, is a nexus of biodiversity and historical trade routes, connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Its turquoise waters and coral ecosystems provide a vibrant backdrop, while its climatic extremes—intense heat and salinity—demand innovative architectural design. The project responds to this setting by embracing mobility, allowing the home to float across the sea’s surface, interacting with coastal communities and marine environments. This nomadic quality reflects the region’s Bedouin heritage, where movement is synonymous with adaptation and resilience.
Design Concept
The Red Sea Home is conceptualized as a “water capsule,” a self-contained dwelling that harmonizes with its aquatic surroundings. The design draws inspiration from the idea of a home as a void—a space of comfort and stability—while challenging the static nature of traditional residences. By integrating principles of Sustainability and Research, INJ Architects proposes a dwelling that roams the seas, fostering cultural exchange and environmental awareness. The capsule’s form is both functional and symbolic, evoking a paper boat drifting across the ocean, carrying stories of human connection and exploration.
Architectural and Formal Treatment
The architectural language of the Red Sea Home is defined by its modular, lightweight structure, designed to withstand marine conditions while minimizing environmental impact. The capsule, spanning 250 square meters, features a streamlined, aerodynamic form clad in bio-composite materials that resist corrosion and reduce thermal gain. Large, curved glazing panels create a seamless connection with the sea, enhancing the interior design by flooding spaces with natural light and panoramic views. The facades are dynamic, with adjustable louvers that respond to solar angles, balancing aesthetics with functionality.
Internally, the layout prioritizes flexibility, with open-plan living areas that adapt to the needs of its inhabitants. The design incorporates modular furniture and smart storage solutions, reflecting the Engineering precision required for a floating home. The capsule’s buoyant base, engineered with advanced hydrodynamic principles, ensures stability while allowing for smooth navigation across the Red Sea’s currents.
Sustainability and Technical Solutions
Sustainability is at the core of the Red Sea Home. The capsule is equipped with solar panels and a desalination system, enabling energy and water self-sufficiency. Waste management systems prioritize recycling and zero discharge, aligning with the project’s commitment to marine conservation. These technical solutions, developed through rigorous Research, ensure that the home not only coexists with its environment but actively contributes to its preservation. The project’s low maintenance cost—targeted at less than 3% of annual building costs—demonstrates a practical approach to sustainable architecture.
Team Contribution
Led by Ibrahim Nawaf Joharji, the INJ Architects team brought together expertise in Design, Engineering, and Sustainability to realize this visionary concept. Collaborating with marine engineers and environmental scientists, the team ensured that the Red Sea Home balances aesthetic innovation with technical feasibility, embodying INJ Architects’ commitment to pushing architectural boundaries.
Conclusion and Vision
The Red Sea Home is a testament to the power of imagination in shaping the future of Residential architecture. By reimagining the home as a mobile, sustainable entity, INJ Architects invites us to rethink our relationship with space, nature, and community. This project, categorized under Research and Sustainability, is not just a design but a narrative of hope—a vision of homes that adapt, connect, and inspire across the world’s oceans.