On one of the few remaining oak-forested sites in the western Dabouq suburb of Amman, the residence for a family of six was carefully positioned to protect all of the existing trees. The two lower levels are carefully integrated into the sloping site, reducing the profile of the upper, third level and roof terrace. The austere construction of cast-in-place reinforced-concrete is softened by hand-sanded finishes undertaken by stone masons; massing is planned as thick concrete slabs stacked atop each other to create deep recesses for extensive exterior planters, terraces and circulation areas, and windows that are protected from direct sunlight while offering views onto the gardens and forest. 

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture