X Architects’ desert resort in Saudi Arabia is inspired by its landscape
From dune units to desert flower villas, this desert resort aims to enhance visitor experience
Dubai-based architecture practice X-Architects has won a competition to design a desert resort in Saudi Arabia inspired by the landscape of the Arabian Peninsula’s Empty Quarter.
The luxury 60-key desert hideaway resort is set in the world’s largest sand sea that holds about half as much sand as the Sahara Desert. The terrain is covered with 250-meter-high reddish orange sand dunes that are interrupted by white salt flats called ‘Sabkhas’.
The project aims to intensify the visitor’s natural desert experience using its surrounding landscape by creating a “constellation of architecture” that is integrated with the land.
The Dune units are shaped in the form of sand banks that resemble the existing texture of the terrain, creating an architecture that is respectful to its site and context.
Other units are designed to grow vertically like a desert flower and are placed on the highest point of the site, offering uninterrupted views to the stars through its elongated form while a polymer fiber mesh encloses the structure partially to minimize exposure to sandstorms and harsh sun.
Its wellness offerings include a white spa carpet, created out of salt, that intensifies the minerals existing on the salt flats which are used for their healing qualities. Similarly, a ‘living room’ hidden between walls of sand offer visitors a calm, serene and tranquil environment.
A vertical garden incorporated to create an ecosystem is served by reusing water and vegetation, and enhanced by the stepped back wall that seamlessly sinks into the existing sand dunes.
The formation of the dunes and the carving nature of the desert also inspired the conceptual approach of the main arrival hall.
The interior spaces are carved from the landscape while the dune-like columns are filled, over time, with sand. The roof includes skylight openings that radiates natural light and brings the desert landscape into the interior.
Using a similar organization system as the interior, the exterior begins to form cascading pools, terraces, and garden spaces that extend out of the landscape using recycled water.
The Latest
A Sleek Finish
Italian craftsmanship meets contemporary sophistication in a harmonious blend of form, function and luxury
A New Room for Wellness at Home
Bathrooms are increasingly becoming spaces for relaxation and self-care – and architects and interior designers are taking note
The Power of Public Art
This project showcases how creativity can revitalise both cities and workplaces, transforming them into spaces for connection and inspiration
Sculpted House
Designed by Jack Fugaro, the Kernan Residence mimics the minimalism of a gallery without compromising on comfort or functionality
PRIYAM: Minimalist Sanctuary
In the centre of Hyderabad in India exists PRIYAM – a minimalist sanctuary and the embodiment of nature-led landscape design. Here, founder of Kiasma Studio, Sowmya Lakhamraju shares her thoughts on what makes this project so special
The identity guide to ISH Frankfurt 2025
The fair opens doors from the 17th to 21st March 2025
The Spaces that Shape Us
We explore how certain spaces influence and shape human behaviour, creativity and cultural identity
The Chedi Private Residences in Dubai
The Chedi debuts its first-ever standalone private residences in Dubai
Revitalising the Soul of the City
E+A Studio adds a fresh new spin to the charm of Dubai’s busiest neighbourhoods
A vision for innovation
identity interviews Vishwa Kundariya, the co-founder of ClayArk on forging her own path.
The Making of Gerbou
We take you into the design story of the much-awaited Emirati hospitality concept which blends culture, sustainability and collaborative design
Honouring Nature and Tradition
We take you inside WA International’s latest award-winning project at the Ngorongoro Lodge, a Meliá Collection hotel in Tanzania