Take a Look Inside AW²'s Heavenly Banyan Tree AlUla Resort in Saudi Arabia
Leading guests into nature through an enchanting build that blends in with its surroundings.
Paris-based design studio AW² has unveiled its highly-anticipated Banyan Tree AlUla resort in Saudi Arabia’s Ashar Valley. Led by Stéphanie Ledoux and Reda Amalou, the rich setting aims to blend in with its preserved surroundings while respecting the country’s rich heritage and supporting its regional goals in the tourism sector.
47 exclusive suites are built within the hotel, fashioned with a tented design that lodges guests in up to three spacious bedrooms. A minimalistic approach is experienced all around, highlighting the landscape’s preserved rock structures. The resort keeps sustainability at the fore through sandy walkways and the protection of native desert species. Two luxurious restaurants host guests on the daily alongside a specialty spa and infinity swimming pool that enhances the natural environment.
Bedouin tribal culture is reflected across its interiors, from Nabataean-inspired patterns to muted color palettes that reflect the desert’s native scenery.
Speaking on its design, AW² co-partners Reda Amalou & Stéphanie Ledoux state:
“Our architecture responds to the fragility of the Ashar site and aims not only to restore but also to protect it from future harm by consciously addressing the balance of Man and Nature.
“Our concept involves harnessing the natural beauty of the landscape with a project that seamlessly integrates into the site, a design that is adapted and adaptable to the cultural, historical, and natural specificities of Ashar.”
Take a look around Saudi Arabia’s Banyan Tree AlUla resort in the gallery above.
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