Ddar House Othmane Bengebara Studio Morocco

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Project: DDAR House Architect: Othmane Bengebara Studio Location: Morocco, Essaouira Year: 2024 Area: 300 m2 Photography: Iman Zaoin Architecture Rooted in Tradition and Light DDAR House by Othmane Bengebara Studio is a poetic retreat located in the arid hills near Essaouira, Morocco. Designed as a dialogue between architecture, craft, and nature, the project reinterprets the Moroccan douar—a traditional village dwelling—into a contemporary architectural language. Built primarily from local earth, stone, and wood, the home blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, appearing as if it has grown organically from the terrain.
The house’s layout unfolds as a sequence of volumes nestled along the slope, each responding to topography, sunlight, and wind. This composition creates a fluid rhythm of open courtyards, shaded patios, and enclosed living spaces—each one carefully oriented to frame the views of the Atlantic horizon.
Materiality, Craft, and Climate Sensitivity At the core of DDAR House is the philosophy of “building with the land, not on it.” The architects used natural and locally sourced materials—rammed earth walls, lime plaster, handcrafted tiles, and timber details—to create an architecture of permanence and authenticity. These materials not only root the project in its geographical and cultural context but also provide natural insulation against Morocco’s harsh climate.
High ceilings and strategically placed openings enable passive ventilation, allowing cool sea breezes to flow through the interiors. The thick earthen walls store thermal mass, maintaining comfort without mechanical heating or cooling systems. This environmentally responsive design redefines luxury as harmony with nature rather than excess.
Living Spaces Shaped by Light and Texture Every space in DDAR House is choreographed to celebrate light and material. Morning light washes over the textured walls of the main living area, while filtered afternoon sun enters through carved wooden screens, casting intricate shadows that shift throughout the day. The transition between inside and outside is intentionally blurred—large pivoting doors open the living areas to courtyards and terraces, while outdoor lounges and shaded verandas extend daily life into the open landscape.
The interiors follow a minimal aesthetic, combining bespoke Moroccan craftsmanship with contemporary furnishings. The palette—earthy tones, handcrafted ceramics, and local textiles—creates a serene atmosphere that resonates with the natural surroundings.
Sustainability Through Vernacular Wisdom Rather than rely on imported green technologies, DDAR House embraces vernacular intelligence. The architecture integrates bioclimatic principles that have guided North African building traditions for centuries. Solar energy powers the residence, water systems are designed for efficiency, and the use of raw, breathable materials ensures long-term durability with minimal maintenance.
This approach demonstrates that sustainability in architecture is not only about innovation but also about remembering. By combining traditional know-how with modern precision, the architects crafted a dwelling that stands as both timeless and forward-thinking.
A Contemporary Moroccan Refuge DDAR House is more than a residence—it is a living manifesto of cultural and environmental respect. It speaks to a growing movement within Moroccan architecture that values authenticity, craftsmanship, and ecological responsibility.
Through its sculptural geometry, tactile materiality, and deep sensitivity to landscape, Othmane Bengebara Studio redefines what it means to design for place and identity. DDAR House is a reminder that true modernity in architecture begins with listening—to the site, the climate, and the wisdom of the past.
Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin Photography © Iman Zaoin

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