Remal Resort

Faculty of Fine Arts, Alexandria University in Alexandria

Project idea

The idea of this project is to build a peaceful zone away from the super fast life rythm, to allow guests to enjoy the desert vibes, the calmness, the beauty of nature and to experience joy in its purest form.
Wabi - Sabi Style was the best go to for this project, the earthy color palette, minimalism in furniture, wall holes and the surrounding of Palm trees added life to the project's final construction.

Brief about Wabi Sabi Style:
Wabi Sabi is all about embracing the natural world, finding beauty
in imperfection, and creating a calm environment.
The use of natural materials is an essential element of Wabi Sabi design,
as it emphasizes the beauty of nature. Wood, stone, and clay are favored
for their earthy texture and natural appearance.
Wabi Sabi design creates a sense of serenity and calm, which is
particularly appealing in today's fast-paced and stressful world.
Wabi Sabi interior designs often feature sparse furniture
arrangements and open floor plans, which create a sense
of spaciousness and allow natural light to flow freely.
The Wabi Sabi color palette is inspired by nature and features earthy tones such as beige, taupe, and gray. These colors are chosen for their calming and grounding effect, and they work together to create
a sense of harmony and balance.

Project description

The project consists of the following parts: The Lobby area, minimalism furniture with some curved partitions to enhance the project mood, Reception and Front Desk, Waiting areas, Indoor Restaurant and cafe, Outdoor Restaurant and Cafe, Large Spring court, Outdoor Bar, Offices and Management rooms, Massage Room, Suites, Single and Double Rooms, Open Air Cinema, Yoga Hall, Pottery workshop hall, Pottery Exhibition, Jacuzzi area, Security room, Lockers and Toilets, and Small Spring Court.

Technical information

MATERIALS:

The Construction of the building is made of rough Granite, Rocks and Wood. Its a Steel Structure project inspired by Sand movement Waves, its flowy lines, and curved walls.
Choosing Wabi Sabi style for the interior was the best choice to achieve the project's main goal, Calmness and Peace of mind.

LIGHTING SYSTEM:

In the context of Wabi-Sabi, the lighting system plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic and philosophical principles of this Japanese aesthetic. Here’s a brief overview:

Natural Light Emphasis: Wabi-Sabi values natural light, particularly its subtle and changing qualities throughout the day. Large windows or openings are favored to allow ample natural light to filter in, creating a connection with the external environment.

Soft and Warm Lighting: When artificial lighting is used, it tends to be soft, warm, and diffuse. Harsh fluorescent lights or bright LEDs are avoided in favor of softer, gentler illumination that complements the natural ambiance.

Use of Traditional Lighting Fixtures: Traditional Japanese lighting fixtures such as paper lanterns (chochin) or bamboo and wood lamps are common. These fixtures often have simple designs that contribute to the minimalist aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi.

Shadow Play: Shadows are embraced as an integral part of the lighting experience. Soft shadows cast by natural or artificial light add depth and texture to the space, highlighting imperfections and the beauty of simplicity.

Unobtrusive Placement: Lighting fixtures are placed thoughtfully and discreetly to blend into the surroundings rather than stand out. They are often positioned to create a gentle, indirect glow that enhances the atmosphere without drawing attention away from natural elements or materials.

Emphasis on Imperfection: Wabi-Sabi celebrates imperfection and transience. Lighting that is not perfectly uniform or that creates subtle variations in brightness can enhance the feeling of impermanence and the beauty of the moment.

Integration with Natural Materials: Lighting fixtures are often crafted from natural materials such as paper, wood, or bamboo. This not only aligns with the aesthetic but also ensures harmony with the natural elements present in Wabi-Sabi spaces.

Overall, the lighting system in Wabi-Sabi style is characterized by its simplicity, naturalness, and ability to create an ambiance that resonates with the principles of imperfection, impermanence, and the beauty of the natural world.

VENTILATION:

Ventilation in desert resorts is crucial for ensuring comfort and well-being in a harsh and often extreme climate. Here’s a brief overview of how ventilation is managed in desert resort settings:

Natural Ventilation: Desert resorts often leverage natural ventilation techniques to maximize airflow and reduce reliance on mechanical systems. This includes strategic placement of windows, doors, and architectural features that encourage the flow of air.

Building Orientation: Resorts are typically designed with consideration to prevailing winds and sun angles. This helps in optimizing natural ventilation pathways and minimizing direct exposure to intense sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.

Cross-Ventilation: Design principles prioritize cross-ventilation, where openings on opposite sides of buildings allow air to flow through spaces naturally. This promotes cooling and reduces the need for mechanical air conditioning, particularly during cooler evenings.

Shading Strategies: Resort architecture often incorporates shading elements such as overhangs, awnings, or pergolas. These provide protection from direct sunlight while allowing air to circulate freely, enhancing comfort in outdoor and semi-outdoor spaces.

In summary, ventilation in desert resorts is carefully planned to harmonize with the natural environment, promote comfort, and integrate sustainable practices. Whether through natural airflow or advanced mechanical systems, these strategies ensure a pleasant and enjoyable guest experience in challenging climatic conditions.