Villa Hush-Hush by Steven Chilton of Marks Barfield Architects

In plan, the villa is divided into four clearly defined zones, of which it is possible to elevate two, depending on the internal arrangement and client’s requirements. The clean simplicity of the forms concentrates the relationship between the villa, the viewer and its environment.

Externally the moving element transforms the villa into a kinetic sculpture creating a unique spectacle with an assured quality. Inside, bespoke designs by interior specialists Candy & Candy will frame spectacular views that would slowly be unveiled as part of the villa rises up above the surroundings bringing the horizon into view, creating a unique, memorable, and heightened feeling.

Engineers Atelier One designed the lifting mechanism which pushes a support column up out of the ground raising the moving element of the villa from its lowered position to the required height. The lifting mechanism has been designed such that the lifting, at around 10cm per second, is gentle and steady. The moving element of the villa can be lowered more quickly as it is easier to drop the structure than lift it. This means it would take about five minutes to reach its full height above ground and about three minutes to descend.

Designer: Steven Chilton of Marks Barfield Architects, Location: United Kingdom, Image Credits: © Steven Chilton of Marks Barfield Architects, Information: Source