A pair of twin villas are located on adjacent plots in the developing residential area of Barsha, Dubai. Set within a rectangular footprint of 15x30m, the villas were conceived as a reinterpretation of the traditional Emirati courtyard house. Out of the pure massive two-storey volumes, deep-set full-height openings and a variety of courtyard spaces are carved to provide maximum natural light and ensure privacy to the interior spaces. Landscaping utilises indigenous species like the ghaf and palm trees.