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A20

GroundedDesign

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Bronze
Exterior - Kelly Tooze
Guest Bedroom - Kelly Tooze
Guest Bedroom - Kelly Tooze
Exterior - Kelly Tooze

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Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
House
6.44
7.25
6.50
6.56
6.69
Fo Chen
Fo Chen General Manager at Guangzhou Baietan Mixc
6
7
6
6.5
6.38
Peter Meinders
Peter Meinders Lecturer at Saxion University of Applied Sciences
7
7.5
6.5
6.5
6.88
Billy Ip
Billy Ip Principal, Global Sector Leader - Retail at Woods Bagot
6
7.5
7
6.5
6.75
Hong-Bo Cheng
Hong-Bo Cheng Founder and Creative Designer at LubanEra·Design
7
7.5
7
6.5
7
Sam Derrick
Sam Derrick Managing Director at Brinkworth
6
7
6
6
6.25
Laetitia Murguet
Laetitia Murguet Founder at Oani Studio
6
6.5
6
6.5
6.25
Kevin Mclachlan
Kevin Mclachlan CEO at NOMADK
6.5
7.5
7
7.5
7.13
Sarika Shetty
Sarika Shetty Partner at SJK Architects
7
7.5
6.5
6.5
6.88
Client
GroundedEstates
Floor area
900 ㎡
Completion
2025
Budget
Confidential
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Accessories

Lime Tree Valley A20 by GroundedDesign is a contemporary reimagining of a dated villa in Dubai’s Jumeirah Golf Estates—an architectural transformation that balances aesthetic restraint with technical precision and ecological awareness. This project goes beyond renovation. It challenges conventional expectations by introducing a new language of future-forward living: one that is intelligent, intentional, and rooted in place.

At the heart of the design lies a deep reverence for timelessness and a commitment to quiet luxury. Natural materials—travertine, wood, and soft stone—form the foundation of the palette, offering a tactile warmth and visual continuity that flows from interior to exterior. Spaces are composed with a minimalist hand, allowing natural light, shadow, and texture to shape the experience of the home. Architectural gestures are restrained yet expressive, revealing an intuitive sense of flow that encourages both reflection and gathering.

Functionally, the layout was entirely restructured to support modern lifestyles. Open-plan living areas are delineated through nuanced spatial zoning rather than walls, creating fluid transitions while maintaining intimacy. A dramatic double-height entry sets the tone, unfolding into a sequence of rooms designed for both elegance and utility. Custom elements—like a sculptural staircase paired with a Zen garden below—establish focal points that are both emotive and functional.

Innovation is woven into every detail. The wine cellar is centrally placed, treated as an art piece rather than hidden storage. The kitchen merges form with performance—anchored by a generous island, framed by full-length garden views, and fitted with energy-efficient systems that support contemporary living. Smart home technology allows seamless control over climate, lighting, and security, making the villa responsive, adaptive, and discreetly intelligent.

From a sustainability standpoint, the villa is carefully calibrated for environmental sensitivity. Natural ventilation and daylighting reduce dependence on mechanical systems. High-performance glazing minimizes heat gain. Native, drought-tolerant landscaping lowers water consumption while enhancing biodiversity. Energy-efficient lighting and appliances work in concert with zoned HVAC to minimize resource use without compromising comfort.

Socially, the home is designed for both retreat and connection. A sunken firepit lounge within the pool area offers cinematic, communal moments, while private spaces like the TV lounge and master suite are layered for rest and reflection. Every room is considered for function and longevity—from concealed wardrobes to convertible wellness spaces—ensuring the home evolves gracefully over time.

Ultimately, Lime Tree Valley A20 is a study in balance: between innovation and restraint, openness and shelter, permanence and adaptability. It is a home that doesn't shout, but resonates—with clarity, calm, and an enduring sense of purpose.