MMA Projects is a multidisciplinary and multicultural architecture and design studio based in Milan. It is specializes in various fields of design, including luxury residential projects. Among the Studio’s most interesting projects of this year we can find Villa AR, a private residence of 1,350 square meters in Dubai, UAE. Its sculptural features, interplay of volumes, geometries, and light reflections from skylights define its architectural spaces.
The project features a modern aesthetic based on an interplay of volumes and surfaces with strict geometric rigor. Observing the structure, one can admire a visual composition of geometric forms reminiscent of an abstract Mondrian painting. The materials used in the finishes contrast with each other, creating an engaging play of light and shadow, glossy and matte textures, veining, and color uniformity. These elements enhance the use of materials such as Travertine, reflective glass, brushed brass, matte white plaster, and the warm brown of HPL wood-effect entrance doors.
The interior partitions define the layout while emphasizing the verticality of the residential volume, creating spacious areas where functions flow seamlessly, allowing natural light to integrate harmoniously. The entrance lobby welcomes visitors into a space characterized by large windows that flood the vertical cladding with natural light, casting dynamic patterns of light and shadow on the three-dimensional Moka Cream stone wall. The relief composition lends austerity and grandeur to the space, accentuating its double-height ceiling and drawing the eye upward to a handmade chandelier by Kolektiv Ateliers, composed of glass elements resembling maple leaves.
The MMA Projects' choices for the kitchen
On the same floor are the dining area and a show kitchen, where the black Portoro marble countertop and integrated dining table take center stage. This exquisite Italian marble, known for its deep black hue and golden veining, complements the warm tones of Canaletto Walnut wood used for the kitchen island and cabinetry. The combination of materials – marble, wood, and brushed brass – creates an immersive chromatic effect.
Above the cooking area hangs the Cosmos lamp by Vibia, a minimalist design that creates the illusion of floating spheres, enhancing the sense of lightness. Paired with this are Fil Noir chairs by Minotti in orange leather, contrasting with the dark wood. Fixtures from the Milo collection by CEADESIGN add refined functionality. The show kitchen opens onto a spacious living area with large windows overlooking the garden, flooding the interior with natural light. A distinctive feature is a floor-to-ceiling bronze bookcase facing the window, acting as a screen and filter between the interior and exterior.
