Set within the hills of Qornet El Hamra, Lebanon, this 1,360 sqm private residence, designed by Dori Hitti Architects (DHA) in collaboration with INTERNI, reinterprets a traditional villa through an intervention that brings together heritage and contemporary design.
The project preserves the original identity of the building while introducing an extension defined by clean, essential lines and a complete redesign of the interiors. Expansive glazed surfaces, terraces and outdoor spaces strengthen the dialogue between architecture and landscape, enhancing natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.
A defining feature of the residence is its sequence of vaulted spaces, a reminder of the villa’s original architecture and the compositional heart of the project. White arches articulate the interiors and interact with contemporary elements, including sculptural lighting, understated detailing and carefully selected furnishings.
The interiors are shaped by a refined palette of Silver Travertine, white wood, gun metal finishes and smoked mirrors, enhanced by a lighting design that highlights volumes, textures and curves. Social areas flow seamlessly from one to another, alternating more intimate settings with spaces conceived for entertaining. The double-height living room emphasises openness and verticality, while custom architectural elements in black discreetly define the lounge, dining area and circulation spaces. Large glazed surfaces complete the composition, establishing a constant relationship between the interiors, natural light and the surrounding landscape.
The Boffi kitchen reflects the same pursuit of understated elegance and design quality. Minimal volumes, refined finishes and integrated technology create a highly functional space that remains visually consistent with the surrounding architecture. Rimadesio doors and partition systems contribute to the continuity of the architectural language, while providing spatial flexibility and visual lightness.
Within this setting, INTERNI’s contribution takes shape through a curated selection of furniture and accessories from leading international design brands. Edra, Poltrona Frau, Cassina, Minotti, B&B Italia, Baxter, Moroso, Ligne Roset, Bonaldo, Henge, Tom Dixon, Davide Groppi, Flos, Poliform, Novamobili, Paola Lenti, Exteta and Moooi come together in a sophisticated yet harmonious interior scheme, where each piece has been selected to engage with the architecture through materiality, comfort and sculptural presence.
The same sensitivity extends to the bathrooms, conceived as intimate and relaxing spaces. Antonio Lupi sanitary ware, Ritmonio fittings and Ariostea ceramic surfaces define understated environments characterised by clean geometries, natural materials and a discreet interpretation of luxury.
More than a renovation, Qornet El Hamra Villa is a transformative project that creates a meaningful connection between past and present. Through a carefully balanced approach to preservation and innovation, Dori Hitti Architects gives new life to the residence’s original identity, reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens. Light, openness, material quality and design culture come together to shape a sophisticated and timeless home, where architecture and interior design exist in natural continuity.
