The White Hotel
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At a glance
- Project by: X Architects
- Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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© X Architects
Project images
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Concept © X Architects View project image |
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Exterior view © X Architects View project image |
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Exterior view © X Architects View project image |
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Exterior view © X Architects View project image |
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Exterior view © X Architects View project image |
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Interior view © X Architects View project image |
Architect's statement
The objectives behind the brief was in principle to create a unique 5 star Eco Resort hotel that would provide the iconic focal feature of a larger masterplan in the vicinity. This 9 storey hotel would convey an architectural identity that reflected the cultural influences of the UAE translated into a contemporary form. As a sustainable resort the hotel should be efficient and utilise the latest construction and technology to create this visionary proposal.
The proposed hotel straddles the island border of Abu Dhabi City, the design aim was to generate a contemporary form that used traditional models Arabic architectural reference as a catalyst to generate the final structure. The layered “Muqarnas” were eventually used to form the inspiration route to create the final massing. The future friendly design evolved as a crystalline structure to reflect in the calm rippling water, the pure lines of the white building contrasting against the flowing lines of Zayed bridge. This shimmering hotel is a statement of high minimal aesthetic, a lighthouse with 360 degree views of the major urban icons of the outer city.
The project is envisioned to be a steel and concrete construction with façade materials that are sensitive to the local climatic conditions. The façades are shaded using perforated aluminium mesh finished with High Albido colors to reduce solar heat gain.
An array of open spaces were created by using a complex arrangement of rectilinear faces. This myriad of planes fused together formed rooms and balconies unique to each guest. The large openings framed spectacular views of the Grand Mosque and beyond bringing a light and airy feel to the spaces within. The hotel core formed around a light filled internal courtyard would host a variety of facilities such as high end shops, spa and fine dining. Activities spill out to the spacious platform deck, the ideal location for congregating or for large outdoor events.
Details/Credits
- Client: Al Qudra Real Estate
- Location: Zayed Bay, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Design team: Ahmed Al-Ali, Farid Esmaeil, Mathan Ramaiah, Bashar Suliman, Luca Vigliero
- Project type: Eco Resort Hotel
- Site area: 10,000 m2
- Design: 2008
