[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” specialty=”off” _builder_version=”3.9″ parallax=”on” parallax_method=”off” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” next_background_color=”#000000″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”on||”][et_pb_fullwidth_header _builder_version=”3.9″ background_image=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Guest-Suite.jpg” parallax=”on” background_layout=”light” custom_css_main_element=”height: 75vh;” background_color=”rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)” /][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.9″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ module_alignment=”center” make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.9″ src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Guest-Suite.jpg” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”off” specialty=”off” _builder_version=”3.0.91″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” use_custom_gutter=”on” padding_right_1=”5%” custom_padding=”5%||5%|” custom_padding_phone=”10%||10%|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” padding_1_phone=”|0%||” padding_1_last_edited=”on|phone”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||5%|” text_font_size=”1em” header_font=”|||on|||||” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone” header_2_font=”|||on|||||” header_2_font_size=”1.4em” header_2_font_size_phone=”1.2em” header_2_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding_phone=”0px||10%|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone”]
Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa
In March 1999, the Al Maha Desert Resort and Wildlife Reserve was completed after an intense 18-month design and construction program. A progressive evolution of ideas initiated by HH General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Defence Minister and the Crown Prince of Dubai; the resort is a unique development that embraces and celebrates the indigenous culture, wildlife habitat and the environment of the United Arab Emirates.
The design brief set forth by Emirates Airlines called for a boutique hotel development set amongst a wildlife reserve, not too dissimilar to those found in Africa, Malaysia and Indonesia, complete with minimalist lodge-style developments for the guest. The focus was education of the immediate environment combined with ultimate luxury. Two years from its opening, the resort is internationally renowned and, judging by its number of awards, internationally acclaimed.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.91″ src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/1000x500_Al_Maha_Resort.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” align=”center” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”5%||0px|” text_font_size=”1em” header_4_font=”|||on|||||” header_4_font_size=”1.1em” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone” custom_padding_phone=”10%||0px|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” header_4_font_size_phone=”1.0em” header_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone”]
Architectural Identity
The architecture of the resort is a clear deviation from the typical skyline of the United Arab Emirates. The development attempts to establish a language of architecture that is contextual to the area whilst sympathetic to the integration and protection of the environment in a region that is often too busy with emulating the West to be seen as affluent. Recent years have also witnessed a strong attempt at ‘Islamicising’ the architecture; buildings are adorned with a cocktail of Islamic motifs across their facades in a desperate attempt to belong.
The architectural language of Al Maha is again a clear deviation from these and questions the notion of Islamic Architecture appropriate to the United Arab Emirates. After all the religion of Islam was prevalent in many major nations throughout the world, and in each, it evolved to suit the purpose and context. The history of Islamic Architecture is minimal in our context, however what is important is the architectural expression that developed in the region – desert architecture. A language that attempts at creating comfortable habitat for the people from the burning sun, a language often associated with Islamic Architecture, as Islam itself originated in this region. Al Maha is seen as a significant landmark in the evolution of the architectural language in a country that is just over 30 years old and because it really is the first concentrated effort by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to address the issue of context and energy awareness in the built environment.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”3.9″ icon_color=”#a78e57″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” border_color_all=”#a78e57″ custom_padding=”13px||0px|” body_font_size=”0.875em” body_line_height=”1.6em” toggle_font=”|||on|||||” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”on|off|off”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Location” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Facts” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
Project Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa
Client Emirates
Built-Up-Area N/a
Services Masterplanning, Architectural Concept, Preliminary and Detail Design, Structural Engineering, Commercial Kitchen Design, Interior Design, Authority Approvals and Building Permits, Project Tendering, Administration and Award, Site Supervision.
Collaborating Architect Schuster Pechtold and Partners
Status Complete, Phase 1: 2000, Phase 2: 2004
Budget US$100 Million
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Facilities” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
PHASE 1: 30 Deluxe Chalets with Swimming Pools, 2 Family Chalets with proportionally larger Swimming Pools, 1 Presidential Suite with full-length Swimming Pool, Guest Reception, Front Office, Souvenir Shop with Store, Male & Female Majlis’, Library/ Boardroom, Tea Salon, Prayer Room, Main Dining Restaurant, Pre-Dinner Bar, Gym, Communal Swimming Pool, Outdoor Pool Majlis, GM Ofice, Admin Offices, Commercial Kitchen, Staff Canteen, Cold and Dry Stores, Staff Quarters for 100 staff, Animal enclosures, Horse Stables and a Palm Oasis.
PHASE 2: 10 additional Deluxe Chalets with larger Swimming Pools, 2 additional Family Chalets with proportionally larger Swimming Pools, 1 additional Presidential Suite with full-length Swimming Pool, enlargement of the private pools of all existing chalets and a Day Spa with 4 individual treatment rooms, 1 couples treatment room, Rasul Therapy, Wet-Treatment Room, indoor Jacuzzi, Gym, Juice Bar, Mani-Pedi Salon, Spa-Shop, Sauna, Steam Room and Ice Pool.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Related Works” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”][showmodule id=”1358″][/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Close all” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” open_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” custom_padding=”10px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding_tablet=”10px|0px|0px|0px” custom_padding_phone=”10px|0px|0px|0px” border_width_all=”0px” custom_css_toggle_title=”font-size: 0.8em;” custom_css_toggle_icon=”display: none;” /][/et_pb_accordion][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.9″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”on||”][et_pb_fullwidth_image _builder_version=”3.0.91″ show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” background_image=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Natural-Habitat.jpg” parallax=”on” custom_css_main_element=”height: 50vh;” parallax_method=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” /][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.9″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”|on|on”][et_pb_fullwidth_image _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” parallax_method=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Natural-Habitat.jpg” /][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”on||”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ module_alignment=”center” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” padding_right_1=”5%” custom_padding=”5%||5%|” custom_padding_phone=”10%||10%|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” padding_1_phone=”|0%||” padding_1_last_edited=”on|desktop”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||30px|” text_font_size=”1em” header_4_font=”|||on|||||” header_4_font_size=”1.1em” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone” header_4_font_size_phone=”1.0em” header_4_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone”]
Sustainable Design
As part of the objectives of Al Maha, Architecturally, the buildings incorporate traditions that have evolved over centuries in the most hot and dry climates. Typically, they are inward looking, with courtyards planted with indigenous plants, and/ or open verandas allowing cross ventilation wherever possible. Thick dense external walls and small openings, shaded by the over sailing tented roofs, create thermal lag, slowing down the transfer of the external intense heat to the inside. In some cases, the walls are 600mm thick, built up of aerated concrete blocks with a high thermal capacity. For the same thermal, as well as aesthetic reasons, double glazing with an increased air-space between the glass panes encased in solid wood has been used for doors and windows.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.91″ src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Guest-Suites-blend-into-the-landscape.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” align=”center” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”5%||0px|” text_font_size=”1em” text_font_size_phone=”51px” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone”]
A challenging aspect of the design was the issue of providing panoramic views of the distant Hajar Mountains and the valleys that leads there. However, desert architecture is introverted; the views are always internal from the cultural as well as the climatic perspective. The two issues were successfully combined with the addition of the shade structures; not only do they add a sculptural quality to the buildings that continually changes the form of the buildings with the movement of the sun, but also allows larger openings by blocking out 90% of the solar heat gain. Tests were carried out that demonstrated massive reduction of temperatures in areas shaded by these structures.
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Active Eco Measures
During the design process of the resort, various feasibility studies were undertaken to evaluate alternative energy sources, ensuring an architectural development that was truly rooted to its location. Results from these studies are integrated into the overall development and include the use of photovoltaic panels, reverse osmosis and on-site sewage treatment facilities.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”3.9″ icon_color=”#a78e57″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” border_color_all=”#a78e57″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” custom_css_main_element=”/* Hide the tabs content/sections */||.tab-content {|| display:none;||}” toggle_line_height=”1.6em” border_width_all=”0.5px” body_font_size=”0.875em” body_line_height=”1.6em” toggle_font=”|||on|||||” body_line_height_phone=”1.5em” body_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone” toggle_font_size=”0.875em” custom_padding_phone=”10%||0px|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” custom_css_main_element=”display:none;” /][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”SOLAR POWER” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
The complete Staff Accommodation for over 150 staff relies on solar power for water heating requirement. The solar panels are positioned on the roofs of the staff accommodation, in full view of the guest, thus allowing the guests to experience this eco-friendly technology.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”WATER PURIFICATION” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
The resort relies completely on fresh groundwater for its total water requirement including domestic, irrigation and fire-fighting use. Water is pumped from some 30m below-ground into reverse osmosis plants that purify the drinking water standard and stored in below ground water holding tanks. Simultaneously, water is drawn from the ground for irrigation requirements and is fed directly into below-ground water holding tanks. The two storage areas supply all water needed throughout the resort.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”SEWAGE TREATMENT” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
The entire development is linked by a below ground network of sewage treatment plants that bio-degrade the waste ad separate the water from the solid matter. The clear run off water is then fed back into the irrigation water holding tanks.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”INDIGENOUS LANDSCAPES” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
By designing landscape that is indigenous with to the context, the irrigation demand is massively reduced, as the plant species selected would naturally grow in harsh desert climates with minimal water dependency. With such active measures combined with a full maintenance team ensuring services run to their peak with minimal loss, all water drawn from the ground is fed back into the ground, safely recycling up to 94%. The remaining 6% is mostly lost through evaporation.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”CLOSE ALL” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” border_width_all=”0px” custom_css_toggle_title=”font-size:0.8em;” custom_css_toggle_icon=”display:none;” open_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” custom_margin=”0px||0px|0px” custom_margin_tablet=”0px||0px|0px” custom_margin_phone=”0px||0px|0px” custom_padding=”10px||0px|” custom_padding_tablet=”0px||0px|0px” custom_padding_phone=”0px||0px|0px” /][/et_pb_accordion][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ module_alignment=”center” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” padding_right_1=”5%” custom_padding=”5%||5%|” custom_padding_phone=”10%||10%|” custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” padding_1_phone=”|0%||” padding_1_last_edited=”on|desktop”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||30px|” text_font_size=”1em” header_4_font=”|||on|||||” header_4_font_size=”1.0em” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone”]
Sustainable Design
As part of the objectives of Al Maha, Architecturally, the buildings incorporate traditions that have evolved over centuries in the most hot and dry climates. Typically, they are inward looking, with courtyards planted with indigenous plants, and/ or open verandas allowing cross ventilation wherever possible. Thick dense external walls and small openings, shaded by the over sailing tented roofs, create thermal lag, slowing down the transfer of the external intense heat to the inside. In some cases, the walls are 600mm thick, built up of aerated concrete blocks with a high thermal capacity. For the same thermal, as well as aesthetic reasons, double glazing with an increased air-space between the glass panes encased in solid wood has been used for doors and windows.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.0.91″ src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Guest-Suites-blend-into-the-landscape.jpg” show_in_lightbox=”off” url_new_window=”off” use_overlay=”off” always_center_on_mobile=”on” force_fullwidth=”off” show_bottom_space=”on” align=”center” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”10%||10%|” text_font_size=”1em” text_font_size_phone=”51px” text_line_height_phone=”1.5em” text_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone”]
A challenging aspect of the design was the issue of providing panoramic views of the distant Hajar Mountains and the valleys that leads there. However, desert architecture is introverted; the views are always internal from the cultural as well as the climatic perspective. The two issues were successfully combined with the addition of the shade structures; not only do they add a sculptural quality to the buildings that continually changes the form of the buildings with the movement of the sun, but also allows larger openings by blocking out 90% of the solar heat gain. Tests were carried out that demonstrated massive reduction of temperatures in areas shaded by these structures.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”3.9″ icon_color=”#a78e57″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” border_color_all=”#a78e57″ custom_css_main_element=”/* Hide the tabs content/sections */||.tab-content {|| display:none;||}” toggle_line_height=”1.6em” border_width_all=”0.5px” body_font_size=”0.875em” body_line_height=”1.6em” toggle_font=”|||on|||||” body_line_height_phone=”1.5em” body_line_height_last_edited=”on|phone” toggle_font_size=”0.875em” custom_padding_last_edited=”off|phone”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” custom_css_main_element=”display:none;” /][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”SOLAR POWER” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
The complete Staff Accommodation for over 150 staff relies on solar power for water heating requirement. The solar panels are positioned on the roofs of the staff accommodation, in full view of the guest, thus allowing the guests to experience this eco-friendly technology.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”WATER PURIFICATION” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
The resort relies completely on fresh groundwater for its total water requirement including domestic, irrigation and fire-fighting use. Water is pumped from some 30m below-ground into reverse osmosis plants that purify the drinking water standard and stored in below ground water holding tanks. Simultaneously, water is drawn from the ground for irrigation requirements and is fed directly into below-ground water holding tanks. The two storage areas supply all water needed throughout the resort.
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The entire development is linked by a below ground network of sewage treatment plants that bio-degrade the waste ad separate the water from the solid matter. The clear run off water is then fed back into the irrigation water holding tanks.
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.0.91″ title=”INDIGENOUS LANDSCAPES” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off”]
By designing landscape that is indigenous with to the context, the irrigation demand is massively reduced, as the plant species selected would naturally grow in harsh desert climates with minimal water dependency. With such active measures combined with a full maintenance team ensuring services run to their peak with minimal loss, all water drawn from the ground is fed back into the ground, safely recycling up to 94%. The remaining 6% is mostly lost through evaporation.
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Active Eco Measures
During the design process of the resort, various feasibility studies were undertaken to evaluate alternative energy sources, ensuring an architectural development that was truly rooted to its location. Results from these studies are integrated into the overall development and include the use of photovoltaic panels, reverse osmosis and on-site sewage treatment facilities.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” specialty=”off” _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_padding=”0px||0px|” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”on||”][et_pb_fullwidth_header _builder_version=”3.9″ background_image=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/003263-21-exterior-view-from-dunes.jpg” parallax=”on” background_layout=”light” custom_css_main_element=”height: 75vh;” background_color=”rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)” /][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.9″ custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ module_alignment=”center” make_fullwidth=”on” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” custom_margin=”0px||0px|” custom_padding=”0px||0px|”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.9″ src=”https://www.rtae.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/003263-21-exterior-view-from-dunes.jpg” /][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.9″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”|on|on” next_background_color=”#000000″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.9″ module_alignment=”center” use_custom_gutter=”on” gutter_width=”1″ make_equal=”on” custom_padding=”10%|||” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”3.9″ icon_color=”#a78e57″ border_color_all=”#a78e57″ body_font_size=”0.875em” body_line_height=”1.6em” toggle_font=”|||on|||||” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” toggle_font_size=”0.875em” toggle_line_height=”1.6em”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Location” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Facts” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
Project Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa
Client Emirates
Built-Up-Area N/a
Services Masterplanning, Architectural Concept, Preliminary and Detail Design, Structural Engineering, Commercial Kitchen Design, Interior Design, Authority Approvals and Building Permits, Project Tendering, Administration and Award, Site Supervision.
Collaborating Architect Schuster Pechtold and Partners
Status Complete, Phase 1: 2000, Phase 2: 2004
Budget US$100 Million
[/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.9″ title=”Project Facilities” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”none”]
PHASE 1: 30 Deluxe Chalets with Swimming Pools, 2 Family Chalets with proportionally larger Swimming Pools, 1 Presidential Suite with full-length Swimming Pool, Guest Reception, Front Office, Souvenir Shop with Store, Male & Female Majlis’, Library/ Boardroom, Tea Salon, Prayer Room, Main Dining Restaurant, Pre-Dinner Bar, Gym, Communal Swimming Pool, Outdoor Pool Majlis, GM Ofice, Admin Offices, Commercial Kitchen, Staff Canteen, Cold and Dry Stores, Staff Quarters for 100 staff, Animal enclosures, Horse Stables and a Palm Oasis.
PHASE 2: 10 additional Deluxe Chalets with larger Swimming Pools, 2 additional Family Chalets with proportionally larger Swimming Pools, 1 additional Presidential Suite with full-length Swimming Pool, enlargement of the private pools of all existing chalets and a Day Spa with 4 individual treatment rooms, 1 couples treatment room, Rasul Therapy, Wet-Treatment Room, indoor Jacuzzi, Gym, Juice Bar, Mani-Pedi Salon, Spa-Shop, Sauna, Steam Room and Ice Pool.
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