VILLA ALBA

124 / 122 Cove Drive Sentosa, Singapore

Singapore

Villa Alba is a pair of villas located side by side on Sentosa Island, Singapore. While they are near-identical, with only subtle differences, their design responds to the site’s unique context and environmental challenges. The duo are not identical twins, but close siblings.

The project brief sought an iconic building with character, enhancing the surrounding neighbourhood without overpowering it. The villas needed to optimise the site, address the tropical climate, and harmonise with the adjacent waters and golf course. In addition, the design called for sustainable strategies, the use of natural materials, and adherence to feng shui principles.

Sentosa Island, located just 15 minutes from downtown Singapore, is a premium location where non-residents can buy land freehold in Singapore. Despite strict architectural guidelines, the island has not seen much exceptional design, though there has been some experimentation.

A key challenge was the requirement for a 30-degree pitched roof if an attic was to be included, which is often necessary to maximise floor space while complying with height restrictions. Massimo Mercurio embraced this constraint, turning it into a creative opportunity. He designed a dramatic 180-degree pitched roof, achieved through a visual trick. The arched carport, separated from the main structure, contributes to the pitch, preserving the design intent while complying with regulations.

This form, evocative of a sunrise, is reflected in the name Alba—Italian for “dawn.” The terracotta roof and warm travertine cladding reinforce this concept, with a stone bowl and orange resin sphere at the entrance symbolising sunrise and abundance, in line with feng shui principles.

The design mainly reflects two key principles: integrated design and symbolism as a driver of form. The rising sun motif is repeated throughout the villa, influencing spatial organisation, materials, and finishes. Even custom-designed tableware and artwork maintain this theme.

Additionally, sustainability was central to Alba’s design. The bold roofline provides shade and protection from the tropical elements, while deep recesses, minimal glazing on the western facades, and natural cooling systems optimise energy efficiency. The villas are aligned along a north–south axis, allowing for natural cross-ventilation. The use of heat-resistant terracotta tiles with an air cavity promotes passive cooling, complemented by energy-efficient glazing.

The entrances, set off to one side, open through dramatic double-height timber doors to reveal sweeping views of the adjacent canal and golf course. The open-plan living and dining space, with a timber pool deck and extensive glazing, creates a seamless connection between the interior and exterior landscape. The pool, running the length of the rear façade, further enhances the feeling of the villas hovering over water.

The dynamic forms of the villas are mirrored in their interiors, where angled cut-out windows frame the landscape and travertine piers create feature walls that edit the views in striking ways. Furthermore, the interiors’ fluidity contrasts with the sharp angularity of the walls and windows, adding a sense of drama and movement.

Natural light floods the house through numerous skylights and the use of glazing. The master bedroom, with its double-height bedhead in Burmese teak, opens onto a timber deck with views of the golf course. The attic, designed as a cosy retreat, overlooks a private courtyard lined with planters.

The use of natural materials, including Burmese teak, lava stone, and travertine, adds warmth to the interiors, allowing Villa Alba’s dual structures to strike a harmonious balance between luxury and sustainability.