Al Faya Lodge - UAE’S 1st Petrol Pump

A showcase of desert INK ’s passion for embracing the inherent beauty of the desert, this 5-bed boutique motel, cafe, and spa located on the desert fringe is set to become a regional landmark. Working alongside up-and-coming local architects, ANARCHITECT? , the project takes two dilapidated buildings and develops them into a destination for weekending groups, cycle enthusiasts, and those who simply wish to get away from it all.

desert INK was responsible for delivering the concept and detailed landscape design for the project. The design focuses on minimal intervention, using only strategic placement of concrete slabs, sculptural stone, and corten steel walls to retain the desert sands. The soft landscape design showcases the indigenous desert species through periodic, infrequent irrigation of patches of the desert to generate the seed bank in the soil. The limited tree planting includes hardy desert species requiring only occasional irrigation once established. This sensitive design undoubtedly set a new benchmark for sustainable landscape and desert aesthetics for the region.

Client: Shurooq

Lead Architect: ANARCHITECT?

Size: 17,600 sq/m.

Completion Date: Q3 2017

Photography By: Fernando Guerra