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Barut High End Resort Didim In colaboration with WATG
Barut High End Resort,
Ddim, Turkey
In Collaboration with WATG
The architectural approach is heavily inspired by the natural setting of the promontory, coastline and mountains experienced on the site. The arrival to the resort takes guests through a series of intimate courtyards before opening onto a promontory view down to the bay and the mountains beyond.
Design Concept
The architectural approach is heavily inspired by the natural setting of the promontory, coastline and mountains experienced on the site. The arrival to the resort takes guests through a series of intimate courtyards before opening onto a promontory view down to the bay and the mountains beyond.
The site has been organised into three distinct Zones which cater for all needs.
To the west we have the family zone, to the south is the central mixed zone and to the east is the quieter adult zone. In addition extensive recreation facilities have been provided to the north of the site, ensuring that there is a place for everyone at Barut High End Resort.
The architecture is contemporary Aegean and understated, creating a back drop to the outdoor environment rather than taking centre stage. Along the coastal edge buildings merge seamlessly into the landscape and appear to be more like a series of fluid retaining structures than buildings. From the guest rooms and villas behind, these structures completely disappear ensuring uninterrupted views
Asian Restaurant
Design Concept
The clients vision for the project was La Bella Vita (The beautiful life) Set on a rocky peninsulas surrounded by an olive forest, Corfu Imperial is a stunning backdrop to La Bella Vita.
A sequence of board walks and decks take guests on a beautiful journey that links a series of sandy coves and secret bays. The climax of this journey is celebrated with the Asian restaurant which is nestled into the rocks floating over the sea.
The restaurant brings Asian culinary excellence to the shores of Corfu. The architecture embraces the Venetian idea of buildings connecting people to the water. At night time the building will be a glowing beacon of light reflecting on the calm tranquillity of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Soma Bay Beach Resort
Soma Bay, Egypt
The client brief called for a luxury 250 key resortbeach resort with an extensive recreation and F&B offering.
As part of the brief Cornforth Design provided an initial masterplan for the clients full 266 HA site complete with marina, aqua park, artificial lagoon and coastal park. The client requested that the resort respond to the stunning
sea aspect whilst affording every unit unobstructed views and provide maximum shelter from the prevailing wind.
Design Concept
The architectural approach is heavily inspired by the natural setting of the promontory, beach and mountains experienced at Soma Bay. The arrival to the resort takes guests through a series of intimate courtyards before opening onto a promontory view down to the beach, the bay and the mountains beyond.
The guest experience has been designed to seamlessly connect dramatic, light infused interior spaces with tailored landscapes. The gently terraced design of the resort affords every guests uninterrupted views out to the ocean. Each element of the resort is connected through an intricate labyrinth of intimate outdoor spaces which take advantage of the magnificent Egyptian climate.
All landscape structures and material will be carefully considered and researched. Elements such as shade structures, lighting, hard paving, walls, stairs, water features and furniture will only be proposed if they suit the selected architectural style, if they are sympathetic to the surrounding environment and if they are sustainable and cost effective.
At Soma Bay Beach Resort it will be the creation of a natural and tranquil landscape that will enhance the architectural layouts and the indoor - outdoor experience. Landscape will create a strong connection for guests to enjoy the natural setting of Soma bay and it’s amazing year round climate.
Lopezan Resort Hotel - Gran Canaria
A WATG Project - Role Design Architect
The client brief called for a luxury 230 key resort hotel with a Balinese character. As the largest owner operator on the island of Gran Canaria the client had very specific requirements from the operations veiwpoint.
The client requested that the resort respond to the stunning sea aspec affording every unit unobstructed views and provide maximum shelter from the prevailing wind
Design Concept
Inspired by contemporary Balinese resort architecture the Lopesan Boutique Resort will redefine luxury tourism for the Canary Islands. The resort is designed to take advantage of this spectacular site to the south of Gran Canaria, in the village of Meloneras.
Both the architecture and the landscape have been seamlessly designed to allow guests to reconnect with nature in a memorable setting. Guests arrive through a series of lushly landscaped spaces before the magnificent promontory view of the ocean presents itself. Dappled light falls down from the ornate screens sailing overhead.
The guest experience has been designed to seamlessly connect dramatic, light infused interior spaces with lush, tranquil landscapes. The gently terraced design of the resort affords every guestroom uninterrupted views out to the ocean. The main pool, pool bar grill and speciality restaurant are perched on the front edge of the site creating memorable settings for the guest. Each element of the resort is connected through an intricate labyrinth of intimate outdoor spaces which take advantage of the magnificent Gran Canarian climate.
Materials have been specifically chosen for their tactile properties making every surface a unique sensation to the touch. This rich palette of materials provides a clean, crisp, contemporary design which allows the buildings to become a luxurious backdrop to the dramatic site and views to the ocean. Circulation axes are aligned along spectacular view corridors and punctuated by iconic pavilion structures.
At Lopesan Boutique Resort the journey through the landscape is as much a part of the experience as the architecture.
Almaza Spa Hotel- Almaza Bay, Egypt
The site is located in Egypt on the Mediterranean coast circa 200km west of Alexandria. The Almaza Spa Hotel site is approximately 120,000m2 situated within a much larger estate that is owned by the client.
The client is looking to develop a 250 Key resort hotel as part of a larger masterplan. A key element of the resort is the Spa as this will help extend the the hotels busy period into the shoulder seasons.
The hotel site is situated on a peninsula which stretches out to a small island which is inaccessible at high tide. To the East lies a wide bathing beach which is sheltered by the peninsula.
There are sea views over a rocky shoreline to the North.The topography of the site is minimal, dunes rise to circa 4.5m above sea level at various locations around the site.
Design Concept
Concept:
The architectural vision for the project is the coming together of vernacular and contemporary architecture in a subtle and elegant manner. The buildings should respond to the sites topography and climate in a manner that enhances the natural landscape. Buildings should create beautifully landscaped external precincts and frame the spectacular views out to sea.
• A variety of public private and intimate spaces that stimulate the senses.
• The marriage of vernacular materials with sophistication of contemporary design.
• A variety of memorable dining experiences.
• An intimate and lavish experience for visitors.
• A sense of luxury and exclusivity.
Corinthia Hotel - Abuja, Nigeria
A WATG project - Role: Project Architect
Located in downtown Abuja in close proximity to the parliament building, Aso Rock and the IBB International Golf and County Club, the new hotel will be the destination of choice for guests travelling to Abuja.
Design Concept
The hotel design targets upwardly mobile Nigerians and internationals who are in search of a modern, fresh and fun destination. The unique architectural form creates an iconic landmark that will be a positive addition to Abuja’s developing skyline.
The design celebrates individuality, freedom and mobility. The dynamic roof canopy symbolizes the guest’s desire to reach out to the world and soar whilst providing welcome shade.
Materials are clean and contemporary with forms that gently guide the guest through the hotel spaces. The arrivals lobby is a grand yet light and open space that lifts the spirits. Décor, while fresh and contemporary, has a local flavour and incorporates pieces of contemporary art and sculpture.
Ritz Carlton - Tamouda Bay, Morocco
A WATG project - Role: Design Architect
The Ritz-Carlton Tamuda Bay project site is located on an idyllic piece of land at the southern end of the tranquil Tamuda Bay, a 45 minute drive from Tangiers.
The site is framed by the panoramic views of the surrounding rif mountains to the west and has great aspect which affords memorable views of the mediterranean Sea and the cabo Negro Peninsula.
A large wetland area and lake occupy the lower parts of the site which attract a wide array of migrating birdlife throughout the year.
The project comprises a 100 key Ritz-Carlton hotel, a Jack Nicklaus design 18 hole championship golf course, golf courtyard villas, hillside villas, marina apartments, a marina and a beach club.
Design Concept
A strong Moorish and Balinese influence is apparent in the design and landscaping of the resort. Tall elegant architectural proportions frame axial views and intimate courtyards. Intricate mousharabie screens and striking mosaics are offset by clean contemporary lines. dramatic water features direct your views whilst tranquil water courts provide a relaxing ambience for terraces. Interiors seamlessly interact with outdoor spaces shaded by rich dark timbers.
Natural stone terraces sensitively negotiate gradients. The palette of blue roofs, white walls and natural stone are reminiscent of the regional influence of villages such as chaouen. The hotel is perched on top of a hill and dramatically terraces its way down towards the golf course below which allows for uninterrupted views from all parts of the hotel.
Le Tourelle Ocean Villas, Black River, Mauritius
A WATG project - Role: Project Architect
The challenge was to design 26 villas comprising villas on the steep Tamarin Mountain that would blend into the site allowing for breathtaking views of the ocean from each room. Care needed to be taken to limit the impact on the environment and create tropical elegant villas that embodied Mauritian living. In addition we were asked to provide a residents club with concierge facilities, restaurant, spa, gym and pool.
Design Concept
The design approach was one that enhances the beauty of the site by creating architecture that is sympathetic to its surroundings and follows the site’s natural contours.
Due to the steepness of the site the a long shallow plan was adopted to limit the amount of cut and fill on the site. Pools and outdoor space were intergrated into the villa so that as much of the natural vegetation could be preserved.
The architectural style embodies the essence of Mauritian living with a contemporary design that incorporates the use of traditional materials including local stone, slate and wood. The walls around the villas are designed with black lava rock indigenous to the region.
Fifth Circle Hotel, Amman, Jordan
A WATG project - Role: Design Architect
To create an innovative hotel design on a difficult urban site which would be able to compete with the Four Seasons and Sheraton hotels accross the road.
The client asked that we maximise outdoor terrace space which are very pleasant during the warm evenings and take advantage of views out to the city.
Design Concept
The design not only responded well to the urban context but also became an iconic building for the city.
As the site was all but split in two by an existing house the owner of which refused to sell his property, we looked to create two towers that were joined toghether by the main arrival spaces. The portion of the site facing the main road resembles a dimond shaped wedge, the shape of which allowed us to explore the oportunity of creating a large roof pool terrace that had fantastic view to the main mosque and city below. The use of limestone clading which is prevelent in the city was chosen and set against bronze metal cladding and curtain walling, to exentuate key elements of the design.
A large canopy offered shade to the upper floor teraces and helped to give the building a dynamic form echoing the movement around the intersection below.
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Fairmont, Amman, Jordan
A WATG project - Role: Design Architect
The brief was to design a new 300 key Fairmont hotel in Amman Jordan.
The hotel will comprise Feature entrance; water features; spa; gym; pool deck; specialty restaurants + terrace; roof-top restaurant; conference facilities; meeting rooms; all day dining; lobby lounge; retail and business centre
Design Concept
The challenge was to create an innovative hotel design on a difficult urban site while remaining within the clients’ budget and meeting the Fairmont’s requirements.
Simple contemporary forms have been adopted to take full advantage of this prominent site. The building responds to the corner of the site by creating a multi-story food+beverage concept, which becomes a beacon for the development.
A roof-top restaurant takes full advantage of the spectacular views of the city while the Islamic lantern structure becomes a glowing icon for the city.
The hotel opened in 2017
Le Petiet Trou, Granada, Caribbean
A WATG project - Role: Design Architect
The site is located on a pristine 77hectare site on the island of Granada in the Caribbean. The client is looking to develop a 110 Capella hotel and 122 villas and residents facilities.
The facilities include a conference centre; health & fitness club; hybrid spa; kids club; teens club; beach pool; beach club; tennis courts; jogging & walking trails; village square; seven restaurants
Design Concept
The architectural concept was to use low scale traditional Caribbean architecture. The luxury trophy villas were perched atop dramatic cliff side locations to maximize their value while the smaller villas were located further back on the site along valley ravines. Villas comprised a series of detached buildings connected by superbly landscaped outdoor spaces which take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle afforded by the Caribbean climate.
The interior design is inspired by contemporary seaside living. Red corals bring out a splash of colour on the predominantly white on white spaces.The low-scale Capella hotel was located in a pocket of land above the main beach to provide all guest-rooms with ocean views and access to a pristine, crescent-shaped beach in a protected bay. Behind the hotel a clear lagoon creates a second focal point for the spa and leisure facilities.
Holliday House, South Africa
This project is a personal venture for a holiday house in my native South Africa. The land was purchased in 2005 for £16K . The site is located approximately 60m from the beach-front and 5km from Addo Elephant park. The house is designed to take advantage of the spectacular ocean views. The building is three stories, with the entrance locatedmid level leading into an open plan kitchen, living room, dining room, bar and sheltered terrace. The terrace has full height timber shutters which offer protection from the sometimes harsh conditions and has an external stair leading down to the pool terrace.
Vertical circulation is located along the central stone spine of the building. A dramatic spiral stair leads one up to the flexible studio space and roof garden. To the rear of the spine a more traditional stair descends to the on suite bedrooms and wooden deck. The building fabric consists ofrender, natural stone from the karoo, timber and glass.
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Living Space
Vertical circulation is located along the central stone spine of the building. A dramaticspiral stair leads one up to the flexible studio space and roof garden. To the rear of the spine a more traditional stair descends to the on suite bedrooms and wooden deck. The building fabric consists ofrender, natural stone from the karoo, timber and glass.
Bexhill Design Competition
Design Approach
The design is inspired from the pebble beach and the undulating waves that are created along the seafront as the pebbles are pushed up against the groynes.
These pebble waves are reflected in the form of the roofs and counters which sweep up from the ground level to continue the timeless wave. This creates a clean distinctive contemporary design integrated into the surroundings.
Living Architecture (Kiosk)
The Kiosk continues the undulating waves of the pebble beach. The counter is an extension of the landscape and comes from the ground in much the same way the pebble beach has been swept up and shaped by the wind and sea.
It creates a living architecture that like the shelters create pockets of outdoor space that can be lived in.
The grass areas around the kiosk provide relaxed seating where people can eat their ice creams sheltered from the wind whilst the trees provide shelter from the sun.
Living Shelters
The idea is to create fun, welcoming spaces that provide a variety of different living areas. Dining spaces, seated counter spaces, lounge spaces and outdoor sun loungers are all incorporated into the design. Visitors and locals, friends and families can gather to socialise and interact or relax and contemplate whilst admiring the views.
On the leeward side of the structures natural shelters are created from the roofs and screens, which provide protection from wind. The open side allows the area to be well lit The structure is part green wall, part green roof that in itself becomes a living structure reemphasising the living shelter concept.
