Strategically positioned along the Suez Canal route, Sindalah, designed by Luca Dini Design & Architecture (LDDA), is one of NEOM’s latest developments. This island resort serves as a premier stopover for international superyachts, artfully merging luxury with functionality and offering an experience that reflects the essence of Saudi heritage while embracing contemporary design elements.
The design philosophy behind Sindalah balances tradition and modernity, creating a harmonious blend of the past and present. The design team at LDDA ensured authenticity through extensive research into the region’s architectural lineage. However, rather than merely preserving traditional elements, the team reimagined them with a contemporary twist. By reimagining classic mosaics, for instance, the team created dynamic ceiling coverings that infused modern flair while maintaining their historical essence.
This thoughtful approach enhances sensory experiences by incorporating traditional materials like quartz stone columns, which are strategically placed throughout the resort to engage guests on multiple levels. “This approach elevates the visitor’s interaction with the space, creating a seamless narrative that ties together the old and the new,” adds Dini. By adapting traditional features in a modern way, the design achieves a timeless and balanced aesthetic.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Red Sea, Sindalah’s intricacy is further enriched by biophilic motifs that echo the sea. The nature-driven aesthetics are reflected in a distinct colour palette and translucent, iridescent materials that represent coral reefs and ocean waves. These elements rejuvenate the traditional Mediterranean aesthetic with contemporary textures, all while prioritising sustainability.
Sustainability is central to the island’s design philosophy, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials. In collaboration with Colacem, the team developed a specialised ‘Luca Dini cement’ with luminescent properties. “This material reflects traditional Saudi architecture’s use of reflective elements but incorporates a modern, environmentally friendly twist,” says Dini.
Sindalah also embodies NEOM’s vision of blending nature and technology to redefine modern luxury travel. The island has been thoughtfully designed with amenities that provide visitors with unique experiences, particularly through its luxury yacht facilities. “Our design philosophy for the marina was to create a welcoming gateway to the luxurious lifestyle Sindalah offers,” explains Dini. “The layout not only facilitates easy navigation but also connects directly to the island’s exclusive boutiques, gourmet dining, and leisure facilities, ensuring the marina integrates seamlessly with the island’s opulent ambience.”
In continuation with its biophilic design, the marina’s layout ensures effortless navigation between water and land for yacht owners. Locally sourced, chromo-active materials and artistic finishes that pay homage to Saudi heritage have been used in the construction. Additionally, the amenities incorporate several sustainable design features, including electric charging stations and AI-driven energy management systems. Polycarbonate was utilised in constructing the resort and golf club buildings, allowing the structures to blend harmoniously with the desert environment while remaining environmentally friendly.
Dini continues, “We have also partnered with Stefano Ricci to design the interiors of the yacht club, bringing timeless Italian artistry into the heart of the Red Sea. This collaboration underscores our commitment to unmatched craftsmanship and aesthetic excellence, establishing the Sindalah Yacht Club as a jewel in the crown of the global yachting community.”
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