Wady al Qamar

Location: Hurghada, Egypt
Project Duration: 2008-2011
Surface Area: 80 000 sqm
Status: Design development

Project Summary

new 5-star hotel boasting 450 rooms, situated on an expansive plot spanning 80,000 square meters, has been commissioned for development by the touristic group, Arab German for Touristic Development SAE. This prestigious project is set amidst the desert landscape, nestled between a majestic mountain range and the serene waters of the Red Sea.

The concept for the project emerged from a deep-rooted aspiration to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding desert environment. A comprehensive site analysis revealed that the land is positioned on the periphery of an ancient riverbed, originating from the mountains located 6 kilometers to the east and meandering its way to the sea. Inspired by the natural flow of water and its transformative influence, the project concept began to take shape.

The vision for the hotel is to mimic the dynamic movement of water cascading down the mountainside, gradually carving through layers of geological formations over time. These distinct layers, as they detach from each other, evolve into unique platforms, giving rise to vibrant pockets of life within the desert landscape.

To translate this vision into reality, an analytical approach was adopted, with meticulous attention paid to the site’s topography and the fluidity of water movement. Using advanced modeling techniques, virtual overlays were generated along the simulated path of the river, resulting in the creation of diverse platforms at varying elevations.

The next phase involved the implementation of a 3D simulation, effectively uncoupling the layers to emulate the natural process of geological transformation. As a result, the stratified layers now serve as the foundation for the hotel’s architectural platform, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape.

Each twist and turn in the project’s design narrative gives rise to the formation of pools and bodies of water, strategically integrated to harmonize with the natural environment and cater to the needs of guests. This innovative approach not only ensures a visually captivating and immersive guest experience but also fosters a deeper connection with the timeless beauty of the desert landscape.