Anantara's "Qasr Al Sarab"
Friday, June 22, 2012 at 4:50PMOne evening while I was in a meeting with one of my clients discussing design styles for her new villa, she happened to mention a Desert Resort called Qasr Al Sarab. Instantly the image of Aladdin, the magical Arabian land with oil lamps, flying carpets and exotic belly dancers beckoned me.
I set out to do some research and found that constructing this desert resort was an Architectural feat in itself. It is situated far far away from civilization in the Liwa desert, one of the world’s largest uninterrupted sand deserts called the 'Empty Quarters'. When they commenced construction there were no roads, electricity or water supply. In fact only 2 months prior to my visit they had received permanent electric supply from the Abu Dhabi government. During construction they incorporated an on-site water treatment plant to recycle the water, that reduces their consumption by 45% and also installed intelligent lighting and energy control systems that reduces their electricity consumption by 40%.They work closely with the local Bedouin community and source dates, camel milk, camel meat, herbs and vegetables available from the farms around.
So I grabbed my sketchpad, daughter and husband in tow to experience this desert oasis and a taste of the Bedouin life. What awaited me was far beyond my expectations, the Architecture and Décor just blew my mind. It was Inspiration overload!!!!
Nestled amidst the vast desert......
A wind modeling technique was used to select this location to minimize the harsh effects of wind and sandstorms.
Sustainable methods of construction included, geo- textile sandbags filled with local sand to build 5.5 kilometers of retaining walls, this reduced the cost as well as the considerable carbon footprint if they were to use concrete.
I love how the Arabic architectural details were incorporated into these walls. Subtle yet significant, imagine how incomplete it would look without this detail. Like they say
“GOD LIES IN THE DETAILS”
The materials fit seamlessly into the surroundings. Simple methods of construction using natural materials, which are available from local resources.
The landscape was designed carefully by selecting plants and trees that could tolerate shifting sands, winds and droughts. Despite the arid conditions, the Liwa desert supports a rich variety of plants and animals like the Arabian Oryx Gazelle.
Beautiful Arabesque patterns above the door openings, inserted onto this triangular door frame adds a unique feature to this façade. Traditional moulding designs on the corners of the openings are constant feature throughout the resort.
This water way runs all around the resort and brings its cool and reflective qualities to compliment the setting. Water is one of the most valuable commodities in the desert, hence a traditional falaj irrigation system has been used.
Entrance to the Resort....
Lighting is crucial to bring any design to life, the lighting design here is breathtaking. The proportion of each lamp to the space is impactful, the combination of floor lights, wall lights and ceiling lights sets the mood brilliantly.
The Souk (market)....the warmth of the lights and the intricate wooden ceiling supported by the robust columns and rafters draws u in….
Accessories….
The use of rich textiles in carpets, wall hangings and upholstery is apparent throughout the resort. I noticed a lot of red and orange colors in the soft furnishings it compliments the earthy tones of the terracotta floor and sand colored walls perfectly!
The Library....
Traditional handicrafts and accessories sourced from local communities provide a perfect setting to sip on Arabic coffee, grab a book and relax!
I did not see any flying carpets while I was there, but after witnessing one of man’s engineering achievements, that day does not seem far away!
"All images courtesy my husband Keigan Soans"
Reader Comments (5)
This place looks exquisite... would love to plan a holiday here and experience the UAE differently!
GOD LIES IN THE DETAILS. Now waiting for God to lay in my wallet too, so that 1) i can get my home, not just house, designed by Pavitra, 2) Take a month long work holiday to this gorgeous place along with Pavitra, Keigan and Ishanuuu and Ambi and Raman. God bless the details and wallet! :p
On the more serious side, From the hundreds of places Pavitra could have showcased here, on a page and forum that will reflect and define her talent and her personality too, i am happy she chose this. What i really liked in her expressions of this place is- This water way runs all around the resort and brings its cool and reflective qualities to compliment the setting. Water is one of the most valuable commodities in the desert.
Lighting is crucial to bring any design to life, the lighting design here is breathtaking. ..... Very well observed.
Thanks Rak for your observation! And chica i am glad this post makes you want to travel to Qasr Al Sarab!
Hi Pavitra, your blog is so appealing. I am very much impressed with your writing style as well. I stay in Sharjah. I maintain a website www.minmit.com It is all about my interests. Though I am not so professional, I do showcase them in my way. Can I post this article in my website , providing a link to your website? Do let me know?
Regards,
Hema