The Fold: Dubai-Based TKDP Designs Tulip Field Townhouses in Jumeirah

The Fold is a low rise urban development designed by Dubai-based Tariq Khayyat Design Partners (TKDP) made up of 28 terraced townhouses arranged along the Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah, one of the most sought after areas in Dubai for its diverse urban fabric and relaxed atmosphere.

Rather than conforming to the norms of vertical housing, the design studio presented a dynamic solution that aims to redefine residential projects in the UAE as well as the GCC as a whole. “The Fold establishes a new architectural paradigm subtly combining sophistication, refinement and inclusiveness, furthering the social, infrastructural and environmental progress the region has witnessed over the past century,” Tariq Khayyat tells SceneHome.

TKDP’s approach was guided by extensive research and investigation of the site and its wider existing context. “The main challenge was to coherently address the social, environmental and lifestyle needs and aspirations of the residents through more daring yet functional design solutions that steer away from otherwise repetitive architectural languages,” Khayyat explains. “The design ideally resembles the simple yet striking elegance of a field of tulips orderly aligned to Al Wasl Road.”

The 28 townhouses were organised along a 200-metre central axis; a wide pedestrian artery offering an escape from the busy Al Wasl Road and its surroundings. “This layout facilitates interaction between neighbours - a platform for people to meet, socialise, and engage in sporting activities, fostering a truly new approach in terms of community-building,” Khayyat says. “One that nurtures dialogue and creates a sense of real togetherness.”

Bespoke 12-metre double curved GRP components of the villas’ envelope are not a mere aesthetic addition; they serve as connecting points coherently adjoining the volumes, giving continuity to the overall ensemble. The GRP was enriched with EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System), giving an homogenous silky finish whilst also ensuring even higher insulation and better thermal performance overall.

“We constantly strive to strike a balance between having a profound design identity and at the same time create practical design solutions that cater to the client’s needs,”  Khayyat says. All villas were conceived with three or four bedrooms, featuring high ceilings as well as ample living and entertainment areas. On the ground floor, the double-height entrance opens on to the living and dining rooms, extending to the screened private garden. On the upper floor, the design takes into consideration the very specific climatic conditions, as well as provides privacy and tranquillity.

Wood-powder-coated aluminium louvres ensure shade and comfort to the balconies which are seamlessly connected to the internal spaces, bedrooms, walk-in wardrobes, and bathrooms. To maximise and enhance the overall residential experience, the roof is fully accessible and functions as a terrace and spa with a secluded jacuzzi offering a unique viewpoint towards Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa and the whole of Jumeirah.

Photography Credit: Luke Hayes and Phillip Handforth