I Architectural Realm
A desert landscape Al Faya Lodge in Sharjah has stayed true to its desert roots By: Romit Chakravarty and Duncan Denley Located along the rugged transition between the Arabian desert and Hajar mountains in the Emirate of Sharjah, Al Faya Lodge encompasses an exclusive boutique hotel, spa and restaurant which combines desert wilderness with a certain understated luxury. The hugely-challenging and exposed local environment is defined by the majestic Hajar mountain range which rise like shark’s teeth from the sands of the Arabian desert, draping their serrated shadows over the lodge each morning. Combined with views over the rolling dune-scape to the West, the site of the Lodge has a distinct drama and presence which is hugely captivating. Shorooq’s bold decision to convert existing buildings bisected by a desert road into a visitor attraction was as bold as it was inspired. Partnering with Dubai and London-based Architects, Anarchitect, desert INK was commissioned to manage the lodge’s external interface with this unique environment.
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From the outset, desert INK recognized that any landscape intervention to address the three visitor components must work in harmony with the desert setting and not attempt to materially change the character of the area. In such a distinct setting, nothing could look more alien than a sudden explosion of green lawns, lush trees and polished granite, so desert INK pitched the concept of utilizing locally-sourced materials to enhance, not contradict the existing site’s character. Collaborating with the Architect and client, a concept soon emerged which drew inspiration from roadside motels found in Arizona and New Mexico. A small boutique hotel would occupy one existing building, complemented by a new-build spa and pool courtyard carved into a dune. The opposing existing building shell would be developed into an up-scale diner catering for guests and visitors passing through on the road between.
