In the Qatari desert, the landscape of rocks and sand shapes the project’s silhouette. The partitions marking the resort’s main entrance curve in an organic motion to form a sort of shell. The two long walls shield the complex from the prevailing north-westerly winds, the Shamal, following the ancient wisdom of nomadic encampments.
The central axis acts as a sort of backbone floating above the ground, creating a covered system that houses the main guest facilities: reception, international restaurants, shopping areas, traditional restaurants and tea rooms. These elements are enclosed by ‘light’ partitions, either glazed or screened, in accordance with traditional woodworking techniques. The enormous shell is an organic form that hovers a few metres above the ground. At times, it touches the ground, as in the internal courtyards where the large braziers of the nomadic tradition are situated. The pathways leading to the rooms and other outdoor public spaces—the swimming pools and the open-air theatre for falconry—branch off from this central spine.
The Shamal project is based on a fundamental unit: the tent. The rooms are designed as dwellings that reinterpret traditional architecture by incorporating contemporary technological solutions. The result is a complex that is highly efficient in terms of energy, lighting and indoor comfort for its occupants. The development blends into the landscape through a modular system that echoes the theme of a campsite.
The accommodation is raised off the ground on a wooden platform, upon which sit the air-conditioned room spaces, a walled patio and a carpeted entrance area. The accommodation is available in various configurations, through the aggregation of one or more modules. In their largest form, they create private villas, which mark the southern boundary, open towards the desert.
Completing the complex, a racecourse and an 18-hole golf course provide guests with further leisure facilities. The central spine curves slightly at its end and winds its way into the desert dunes. Only a few observation points emerge from them—true silent towers—from which to gaze undisturbed at the sky.
Published in The Plan, digital edition, 11 May 2021
The Plan Award 2020 Finalist
