Location: Hammamet, Tunisia.

Architect: Septembre Architecture.

A home in Hammamet’s historic district, renovated and expanded. The current home is a typical courtyard house from Tunisia. It changed over time, but it kept the solids and voids contrast that lets light and natural airflow in. The client requested two different living quarters because she lives alone but frequently hosts visitors. The project’s objectives were to preserve the two courtyards, arrange the primary living activities around them, and build numerous spatial and visual connections that were both horizontal and vertical. so that users can communicate with one another throughout the house’s various rooms and floors. The facade facing the street is lined up with the two-story addition. The increased volume makes a house that was previously hidden from the street visible. The guest housing quarters are in the addition. It features a separate terrace with a new stairway leading to it. From the studio terrace, the interior of the home can be seen, creating a visual connection. The decision was made to utilise local resources and expertise. Local artisans manufactured all of the metal and woodwork on demand. The new construction is able to blend in nicely with the surroundings thanks to the traditional use of plaster and lime paint on all exterior walls. Moreover, the play of light and shadow emphasises the facade. The floors are made of concrete that has been waxed in the bedrooms, left raw in the living room, and painted white.

Photo credit: Sophia Baraket.